A mentor I have met since starting my internship in Washington, D.C., is my supervisor, Lionor Galindo. She has been a reliable, supportive, and knowledgeable leader who has truly taken me under her wing. From the beginning of my internship, she has guided me, encouraged me, and given me the skills and confidence I need to succeed. One of Lionor’s greatest leadership qualities is her ability to empower others. She consistently reassures me of my abilities and reminds me why I am here. She creates an environment where I feel comfortable asking questions and learning without fear of making mistakes. She is always clear when explaining assignments and expectations, which has helped me become more confident in my work.
Working with Lionor has been especially meaningful because I first met her two years ago, and now she is my supervisor. It has been a full-circle moment that reminded me you never know who you will meet or how someone may impact your future. Seeing her journey from being an alumnus of this internship program to now mentoring interns inspires me and shows me what is possible. Over the past week, I have attended congressional meetings and advocated for U.S. farmworkers, something I never imagined I would have the opportunity to do. Lionor helped me prepare for these meetings by reviewing my testimony, answering my questions, and giving me the confidence to speak with congressional staff. Her encouragement helped me feel prepared and capable throughout the experience.
What influences me to name Lionor as a mentor is not only her leadership but also her genuine investment in my growth. She takes the time to learn about my background, listens to my experiences, and celebrates my accomplishments. She has also introduced me to possible career opportunities with the United Farm Workers and has encouraged my passion for advocacy. This internship has strengthened my commitment to advocacy, and Lionor has played a major role in that growth. I am grateful for her guidance this summer and look forward to staying connected with her and the United Farm Workers in the future.
Blog Author: Sayra Agustín-Zárate – Class of 2026
Published on July 31, 2026