About Mini Poderosas

Azucena is a bilingual school psychologist, entrepreneur, and youth advocate in the Tucson community. As a first-generation graduate, she received a BA in Psychology with a minor in Family Studies from Northern Arizona University in 2009. She received a Specialist in Education in School Psychology from New Mexico State University in 2014.

Azucena has been a mentor for young Latina youth since the beginning of her career. As a result, the summer of 2016, she founded Mini Poderosas.

Azucena also founded Xoco Tucson, LLC, which offers Spanish immersion play groups for preschool age families ages two to five.

Prior to her graduate school experience, Azucena worked in community mental health agencies as a case manager and HIV prevention specialist. Her interest in working with children with neurodevelopmental disabilities began as an undergraduate when she was part of a behavior clinic at Northern Arizona University that served the autism community. She also participated in research projects and publications under both Applied Behavior Analysis and Social Emotional Learning among the Hispanic community.

When she is not out serving the community, Azucena enjoys spending time with her twin boys, family, and friends. She likes to stay active by spending time outdoors, and hiking with Reinas Who Hike.

As a first-generation university graduate, she holds a degree in Psychology with an emphasis in Leadership Studies from the University of Arizona. With a background in education, criminal justice, and workforce development, she’s passionate about using education as a tool for change. She served as Chairwoman and Treasurer at Tucson Youth Development for 5 years from 2018 to 2023, where she was nominated as an "Outstanding Youth Nominee" in 2014 after participating in the organization's programs as a youth.

Marissa is also Certified in Youth Mental Health First Aid reinforcing her commitment to supporting and advocating for youth. She’s committed to promoting well-being in the community through nutrition and education. In her free time, she enjoys creative writing, cooking, and exploring nutritional neuroscience.