Destinie A. Otero

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I am a passionate, purpose-driven, innovative, visionary entrepreneur, who is grateful to have started Spaces Connected (SC). Beyond it being an emerging grassroots initiative, it is a promise fulfilled, a dream come true, and a mission in progress.

I was born and raised in the South Valley of Albuquerque, New Mexico, and remain deeply rooted and connected to my community. I am a proud Hispanic woman and a first-generation college graduate, as well as the first in my family to pursue unconventional paths, especially that of community-focused entrepreneurship. My early childhood years included exposure to family addiction, criminal involvement, instability, and loss. At the age of twelve, I was adopted and believed this to be a second chance in life that provided belonging, stability, consistency, support, and love, which profoundly shaped my life’s trajectory and my commitment to being part of work that could give back by creating opportunities and support for others, especially for women and families.

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a concentration in Addiction Counseling from the University of New Mexico. I am licensed in substance abuse counseling. Currently, I am serving my third term with AmeriCorps as a VISTA Leader, where I support capacity building and sustainability for a nonprofit focused on preventing incarceration and promoting community-based alternatives to the criminal justice system.

With 10 years of experience in behavioral health, social services, public service, and community engagement, I bring a systems-based, trauma-informed, and human-centered approach to my work. Additionally, I have earned numerous honors and accolades through the New Mexico Leadership Institute (NMLI) scholarship program, induction into the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS), membership in UNM’s Mortar Board Senior Honor Society, and appointment to the Justice Advisory and Accountability Board (JAAB).

Through Spaces Connected, I am committed to developing innovative programs, resources, and experiences that foster healing, learning, growth, and lasting transformation for women, families, and communities.

Aside from my work, I am a human who loves deeply, values connection, and finds beauty in the small things. My heart is most full when I spend quality time with loved ones. Going to community events and discovering new resources is like my candy shop. My favorite kind of views involve Albuquerque’s mountains, sunrises, and sunsets. Nature keeps me grounded, whether through sunbathing, a walk, hike, hot springs soaking, closeness to a tree, listening to the birds sing and seeing them fly, or just eye-catching some butterflies and hummingbirds. I am a foodie and adventurer that enjoys new things and places. I love decorating and hosting event gatherings to bring people together. I am an old soul, that often is captivated and uplifted with oldies music and getting groovy with funky dance moves. Above all, I make sure to stay aligned and balanced through my relationship with God, prayer, and mediation.