Chicas Latinas de Sacramento has existed in the Sacramento community for nine years, thanks to the hard work and dedication of many amazing individuals. To celebrate Sacramento’s leaders, and our behind-the-scenes (s)heroes, we’re thrilled to highlight and introduce to the community our shining star for the month of Junio/June!

Chicas Latinas’ Estrella del Mes: Junio/Star of the Month: June

Sophia Agafonow – Former Board of Directors, treasurer 

How long have you been a part of Chicas? 

I was the treasurer for about three years and a founding board member, too.

Happy to announce that we’re going into 2014 with our 501(c)3 status.

What’s your favorite aspect of being a Chicas member?

I have been involved in service clubs for many years because it is extremely fulfilling, and I am happy to have the opportunity to encourage others to do the same and experience the feeling of being of service to other people in need.

What do you love about Sacramento?

It is a great community to live in and raise healthy families; it isn’t too small, or too big, which allows people to feel a sense of belonging.

What is one of your most fun, or memorable experiences volunteering with Chicas?

Introducing my good friend Susana Becerra to the group and finding out that it was a match made in heaven.

5 year Anniversary at Zocolo

Why did you join Chicas?

I understood the need to get more Latinas in our communities to think of ways of giving back. Our communities usually benefit often from the goodwill of others when going through rough patches [in life], so it is only fair for us to repay the generosity.

What has been your biggest challenge in life?

Leaving my beautiful country, Venezuela, and starting my life all over at the age of 25 in a different country, with different cultures and values. Fortunately, I met amazing people who welcomed me and made me feel at home.

If you could have one superpower, what would it be and how would you use it?

Living always in the present! Only God knows how much time I spend worrying about the future.

What is your favorite quote and why?

“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give,” Winston Churchill. We need more people to give more love, time, money, energy, etc., without thinking about what’s in it for them.

Where is the best place you’ve traveled and why?

London!! There is so much history and absolute respect for their culture, whether it makes sense, or not, like its monarchy, which is pure lovely madness.

What is your most favorite family tradition?

Celebrating Russian Orthodox Easter is my absolute favorite. My grandma cooked the traditional Easter cake, and colored and hand-painted hardboiled eggs that were later blessed by the Priest during service, which is longer than usual and no one is allowed to sit, followed by an unforgettable feast at home with friends and family.