Carmen Garcia

“My identity may be layered, but each piece makes me who I am.”

Carmen Garcia, a Nicaraguan immigrant, has been working as a nurse in Miami for over a decade. With a contagious laugh and a heart of gold, she lights up every room she enters. Her experiences as a gay woman in a conservative culture have been challenging, but she has found solace in the support of her chosen family. When she's not working long hours at the hospital, she enjoys dancing salsa, making homemade empanadas, and dreaming of traveling the world.

What inspired you to become a nurse?

My mother was a nurse in Nicaragua, and I saw how much she helped people every day. I wanted to make a difference in people's lives, too.

How do you think your background shapes your worldview?

Being an immigrant, a woman, and a member of the LGBTQ+ community has given me a unique perspective on life. It's taught me to be compassionate, resilient, and open-minded.

What advice would you give to others who may feel like outsiders?

Find your tribe. Whether it's friends, family, or chosen family, surround yourself with people who love and support you. Don't be afraid to be yourself, because there's nothing more freeing than authenticity.