20 under 40: Domenica Escatel

Favorite quote or saying, why?

“The big secret in life is that there is no big secret. Whatever your goal or dream, you can get there if you’re willing to work.” – Oprah Winfrey

I believe that as long as you have the stern belief in yourself that you can achieve anything. Don’t settle on smaller things; cultivate the energy on a daily basis to really go after what you want in life because your dreams do not need to remain dreams forever. The combination of a plan, its execution, and inner belief are the spark in making your dream come alive and your goal truth.

Community or professional highlights:

I received a master’s degree in leadership from Brandman University in 2013. I have a bachelor’s of fine arts in photography and art education from San Jose State University in 2004. I have participated in various community fundraisers that support the prevention of violence against women. My two favorite awards are the Little Engine Award from the Stanislaus County Office of Education and the Mary Kay Cosmetics Miss Go Give Unit Award. I currently am on the leadership board with the Women’s Education and Leadership League. I have spoken on various topics, including following your purpose, bravery, branding yourself, yoga in the classroom, and the ritual of daily habits. I also am leading a series of upcoming workshops on various topics such as: glitter, guts and goals, the power of authenticity, vision boards, beauty and belief, and game changer. I also have been serving the community working with low-income, migrant, homeless and foster children for the last 10 years.

Your life changed when:

My life changed with a combination of two things. The first was when I started to surround myself with like-minded entrepreneurial women. They helped me realize that my dreams could be bigger, that I could play bigger with my life. It was their inspiration that guided my thinking to understand that as long as I believed in myself and my dreams that I could achieve anything I wanted. The second half of the life-changing moment was when I started to attend Monday night prayer at The House Modesto. Attending Monday night prayer cultivated spiritual growth, which opened my eyes to a deeper sense of life and purpose in helping others.

What do you want people to know most about you?

I woke up one morning and I realized that I have so much power over my life. All that I was unhappy with was in my control to change; it just took a revolution of my mind to take charge. I wanted to control how much I could give back because I knew in my heart that I had the potential to help others, but I had to first start with myself. I call this actualization of interpersonal growth being your “life boss.” I want people to know that concept; they can be their own “life boss.” Being surrounded by multiple successful women, such as Mary Kay cosmetic consultants, has given me an opportunity to see that no matter where you are in your life, no matter your circumstances, past or age, you can always choose to change anything you do not like.

What do you like most about living here?

I like living in Modesto because I believe that this city has a lot to offer. There is a lot of good work being done in Modesto. Being part of the Head Start family with the Stanislaus County Office of Education has given me the opportunity to work with a lot of families in our community. It has made me recognize that there are a lot of good people in this community who want to serve and really make a difference. I have the privilege of seeing endless Head Start staff pour their hearts and souls into the work that they do. My experience with multiple fundraisers with different nonprofits and organizations in the area has made it clear that there are many people who have a passion to lead fellow community members. They are looking to make a significant difference in Modesto, and I want to belong to that type of compassion.

Why is community involvement important?

Marianne Williamson said it best, “In every community, there is work to be done. In every nation, there are wounds to heal. In every heart, there is power to do it.” We all have an opportunity to make a difference in someone else’s life.

Community involvement not only gives you an opportunity to help someone but it also gives you community awareness. Being aware of the needs and goals of your community really allows you to know the values of your neighbors and surrounding community.

This story was originally published August 21, 2016 at 5:05 AM with the headline "20 under 40: Domenica Escatel."