Latest Features
JEFAS Magazine – Summer 2025 Edition
Making Connections That Matter
Noemi Mendez is transforming education for Latino and multilingual students in Iowa. Through Making Connections, LLC.
Cleaning Spaces, Empowering Places
Angelica Gallardo, owner of Fresh House Cleaning LLC in Waukee, Iowa, empowers her community and inspires Latina entrepreneurs through hard work, cultural pride and exceptional cleaning services.
Weaving Isolation into Opportunity and Community
Jessica Cue, a Latina entrepreneur in Iowa, turned isolation into opportunity by launching macrame by Jess, a business that brings cultural pride to Des Moines.
Finding Balance and Building Legacies Through Homeownership
Mariana Hernandez, a DACA recipient and co-founder of Team Ellla, is transforming Iowa’s real estate industry.
Holistic Healing Through Traditions and Technology
Mi Casa is a bilingual wellness center founded by Dr. Lidia Gomez. We offer chiropractic care, and holistic healing.
Leiby’s Food Truck: A Guatemalan Culinary Corner Serves Authentic Flavors with Love
Authentic Guatemalan food at Leiby’s Food Truck in Sioux City, every dish is served with love and celebrates heritage, passion, and community.
Making Art for Everyone
Uruguayan artist Adriana Senges Nicolini is making ceramics accessible to all in Iowa. Her vibrant, textured pottery celebrates multicultural heritage and inclusivity, offering pottery classes in English and Spanish for people of all abilities.
Mexican Owners, Mediterranean Food: Breaking Stereotypes in Des Moines
Discover how Veronica Peralta, a Mexican immigrant, built two successful Mediterranean restaurants in Des Moines while overcoming cultural expectations and prioritizing her health.
A Bilingual Therapist Turns Trauma to Triumph in her Practice
Antonia Valadez, one of Central Iowa’s few bilingual therapists, transforms her personal trauma into culturally competent, trauma-informed mental health care for the Latino community.
Building Beauty and Balance One Lash at a Time
Evelyn Lopez built Pink Girls Studio in Ottumwa, Iowa, balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship while delivering expert lash extensions with a personal touch in a cozy atmosphere.
Turning Public Spaces into Cultural Celebrations
Read about how Latina muralist Marissa Hernandez transforms public spaces with vibrant, community-focused art. Learn about her creative journey, signature style, and the importance of representation in murals across Iowa.
