Meet Isela Mariana Flores | Registered Nurse and the owner of Isela Mariana PRN Photography

We had the good fortune of connecting with Isela Mariana Flores and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Isela Mariana, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
My upbringing is one of the most important factors that has led to who I am today. I was born in Mexico, and came to this country at the age of six. I learned English fluently my first year of school here. In middle school, I was put in the Gifted and Talented Program, I quickly adapted to the school system and lifestyle here. I had big dreams. However, I grew up naive to the fact that I was undocumented. That is, until I was no longer able to do everything my peers were doing. I was unable to apply for jobs, get my driver’s license, or qualify for most scholarships just to name a few. Although, reality started clouding my dreams, I never lost sight of them. I never took no for an answer. In 2012, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) was approved. DACA is a policy that allows individual like myself, with an unlawful presence in this country to be eligible for legal employment, be able to get a driver’s license and be protected from deportation. Along with the support of my family, thanks to DACA, I was able to pursue an education and became a first generation graduate. I graduated Nursing School with honors with my BSN. Although, being undocumented was a disadvantage growing up, every obstacle became an opportunity to get one step closer to my dreams. Everything became meaningful and purposeful. As cliche as it may sound, my parents left everything behind to give us a better future… all I knew was that I did not want to disappoint them. Through everything I do, I strive to be a good representation of my native country, my fellow Dreamers and my family. I take pride in everything I do, from my career as a nurse to my newly launched photography business. It is an honor to care for the sick as well as to serve others. My background and upbringing is the reason why I put my heart in everything I do. I share my story every opportunity I get in order to shine light to our immigrants that are living in the shadows of this country. Si se puede!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
One of the things I believe sets me apart from others is probably my desire to use my art intentionally. I recently had the opportunity to collaborate with Miss Waxahachie Latina and a couple of close friends on a special project to bring awareness to Mental Health. I believe it is important to use your platform to bring awareness and advocate for things that are so detrimental to our country. Suicide is the second leading cause of death among people ages 10-34. At some point those people thought there was no other choice. Our intention with this project was not only to bring awareness, but to let everyone that comes across these images know that they are not alone. “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit” -Psalm 34:18

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to publicly thank three people. First, my husband, as he is literally the reason why I started Isela Mariana PRN Photography. He has, or should I say had, a nice little Sony camera stored away for years. I dusted it off and, well, here we are… In all seriousness, Armando’s faith in my talent allowed me to let go of the fear holding me back from starting my own business. He provided me with both, tangible and non-tangible resources to be able to take pictures for others to this extent. Thank you for your love, support and patience throughout this journey! I would also like to give a huge thanks and shout out to my little sister, Yareli. She has not only supported me from the beginning, but she recently created my new logo. I told her I wanted something unique, meaningful and different that encompassed everything I stand for. I knew it was a lot to ask for, but what she created left me speechless. I am currently in the process of getting it digitalized, but I would like to take this opportunity to share and show off my sister’s raw talent for art. Lastly, I simply want to thank God for always providing. He has provides this talent that is rooted from my passion for photography. He provides the kindest clients. He provides with the most encouraging support system. I am immensely blessed and grateful for eveyone in my life that has been a part of this amazing experience thus far.

Website: iselamarianaphotography.mypixieset.com

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