The Where I Live series aims to showcase our diverse city and region by spotlighting its many vibrant neighborhoods. Each week a local resident invites us over and lets us in on what makes their neighborhood special. Have we been to your neighborhood yet? Get in touch to share your story. If your story is selected and published, you will receive a $250 stipend.
My parents immigrated to San Antonio from Muzquiz, Coahuila, Mexico, in the ‘90s to create better opportunities for themselves and their children. They settled in Kingsborough Ridge, a close-knit community on the South Side where I’m proud to have grown up. Now at 22, I constantly strive to find my place in this world, drawing strength and inspiration from the roots my family has planted here.
The Southside community holds a special place in my heart. Growing up here, I have fond memories of fun family gatherings, and attending local events that bring our community together, like Fiesta. The neighbors on my street are all longtime residents who have been here since my parents first moved in. One of our neighbors gives us extra produce from his garden and another was my elementary school teacher. There’s something comforting about the familiarity of the South Side. It’s a neighborhood where everyone seems to know each other, and there’s a strong sense of belonging.
One of my favorite places nearby is Brewjeria Coffee. It’s where I go to relax, study or even catch up on some reading. As a marketing student with dreams of becoming a social media marketing coordinator, these quiet moments of reflection in my neighborhood have helped me stay grounded and focused on my goals.
Community involvement is also essential to me, and I’ve found great joy in hosting the Sucias Social Run Club. I host these runs every Saturday morning at different parks and locations throughout the South Side and Southtown area. It’s more than just exercise; it’s a way to bring people together, strengthen bonds and encourage each other to be our best selves. The club is a constant reminder of the importance of community support.
Of course, living on the South Side hasn’t been without its challenges. As a student and aspiring marketing professional, I sometimes feel the limitations of resources and networking opportunities that other parts of the city might offer more readily. But these challenges have taught me resilience and have motivated me to pursue opportunities beyond the immediate area. My parents taught me to appreciate what I have and encouraged me to work harder to achieve my dreams.
I’m currently studying at Palo Alto College and plan to transfer to the University of Texas at San Antonio. I love the environment Palo Alto has created. My professors are encouraging and want to see their students succeed. The campus is beautiful, and there are always events for students to attend. I’m also part of the LeadHERs program, an all-women club with a mission to inspire and uplift one another.
Looking forward, I hope to give back to the community that has given me so much. Whether it’s through my future career in marketing or continued involvement in local initiatives, I want to contribute to making our neighborhood an even better place for future generations. The South Side will always be a part of my story, and I’m grateful for the values and lessons this community has instilled in me.
