Mesa resident Mosquera strives to empower, inspire women

Mesa resident Ingrid Mosquera grew up in Columbia and came to the U.S. on a full-ride volleyball scholarship to study and play.

Now she is a Spanish/English teacher and student mentor. Mosquera also works with The First One Consulting, which is dedicated to empowering and inspiring first-generation women — whether they are preparing for college, currently enrolled or recent graduates — to live their lives to the fullest.

Name: Ingrid Mosquera

Age: 38

Occupation: Spanish/English teacher, student mentor

Hometown: Cali, Colombia

Family: Mom, dad and eight siblings

Why did you decide to move from Cali, Colombia, to the U.S.?: I first came to the United States on a full-ride volleyball scholarship to study and play in Florida. Later, I transferred to Marshall, Texas, to complete my undergraduate degree. My academic journey continued with graduate studies at the University of Jamestown and Northern Arizona University. Education has always been central in my life, and volleyball opened the door for me to pursue opportunities I had once only dreamed of.

What brought you to Mesa?: Teaching brought me to Mesa. I fell in love with the community, the culture and the people. Mesa is a wonderful place to call home and teaching high school here has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career.

How long have you been with The First One Consulting, and what services does the business offer?: I’ve been with The First One Consulting for a year. The business is dedicated to empowering and inspiring first-generation women, whether they are preparing for college, currently enrolled, or recent graduates, to live their lives to the fullest.

Our purpose grew out of real-life challenges and transformation. We believe every day is a canvas of possibilities, and we start each morning with a simple but powerful declaration: “Today is a Happy Day!”

We provide guidance in financial literacy, education, fitness and mental wellness. But our vision goes beyond practical tools: we strive to create a supportive space where women can unlock their superpowers, their resilience, courage, and determination to pursue their dreams.

Through workshops, motivational content, empowerment sessions, and our AMIGAS community, we share lessons from our journeys and walk alongside women as they navigate challenges and celebrate victories. Ultimately, our mission is to equip young women with resources and encouragement so they can step confidently into their futures with purpose and fulfillment.

What do you like most about working at The First One Consulting?: What I love most is seeing the transformation in the women we serve. It’s incredibly fulfilling to watch them realize their potential and recognize the power they already have within. Helping them discover resources, develop confidence, and take steps toward their dreams reminds me of my own journey. Just as others believed in me and helped me along the way, I now have the privilege of doing the same for them.

It says on the business website that you are a bilingual English and Spanish teacher with more than six years of experience in language instruction, curriculum design, and youth coaching. How has that work helped you at The First One Consulting?: My teaching and coaching background helps me stay grounded in my purpose. It reminds me of where I came from and how important it is to give back. The classroom taught me patience, creativity and how to adapt to different needs, all of which I now use to support women navigating their academic and personal journeys.

Just as mentors once guided me in the U.S., I now strive to guide others so they can open doors for themselves. Teaching has given me the tools to connect, encourage and motivate, and that has been invaluable in my work at The First One Consulting.

What is something many people don’t know about you?: Many people don’t know that I came to the U.S. with almost nothing. I was born and raised in Cali, Colombia, in a very humble family where at times we didn’t even have enough food to eat or clothes to wear. But those circumstances never stopped me from dreaming bigger.

Since I was young, I learned to look for opportunities where others saw closed doors. My journey has been filled with challenges, but also resilience. Today, I share my story to inspire others who may feel limited by their circumstances. I am deeply passionate about helping others succeed because I know firsthand what it’s like to start from scratch. My hope is to show others that no matter where you come from, your future can be full of possibility.

How are you involved in the local community?: I volunteer at churches, participate in youth events and help at food banks. Community service is very close to my heart because it allows me to stay connected and support those in need. Giving back to the community is both a responsibility and a joy for me.

What drew you to your community?: I was drawn to Mesa because I saw the needs within the community and felt a calling to be part of the solution. This is a hardworking community, and I wanted to contribute by supporting people who may not always have access to the resources they need.

What do you most cherish from your childhood?: I cherish the resilience I developed as the oldest sibling in a large family. Growing up, I helped raise my younger brothers and sisters and always tried to set a strong example for them, no matter the obstacles we faced. My family is my greatest treasure and the friendships I built along the way helped me grow into a stronger person each day.

What is your most quirky talent?: I’m known for always being positive and cheerful, no matter the circumstances. My optimism and joy are traits that people notice right away, and I love bringing energy and encouragement wherever I go.