At just six months old, Yesenia was diagnosed as profoundly deaf after a battle with meningitis. Throughout her life, her disability posed barriers that Yesenia was determined to overcome. Over time, she embraced the power of her unique abilities and found supportive environments that enabled her to succeed. Yesenia’s story is not one of limitations, but of boundless possibilities, partnership, and opportunity.

Yesenia received a cochlear implant at the age of four, a pivotal moment that opened new horizons for her. She was one of the first students at Sunshine Cottage School for Deaf Children to receive such a device. While attending Mac Arthur High School, she mastered American Sign Language (ASL), blending two worlds of communication seamlessly. She used these skills during her time at the prestigious Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Advertising Photography. However, despite her qualifications, Yesenia faced significant challenges in the job market, primarily due to the pervasive requirement for “hearing” capabilities in her field.

Yesenia found hope with Goodwill San Antonio. As she searched online for an opportunity, she came across a position with the organization and applied for it with confidence. “I knew they had an open mind and were an equal opportunity employer,” she recalls. “I’ve been working with the E-Commerce department for eight and a half years now.”

At Goodwill, Yesenia found a community that embraced her uniqueness. Her role as a Merchandise Production Specialist in the E-Commerce department has allowed her to shine by utilizing her keen eye for collectibles—a skill honed from years of shopping at flea markets and watching shows like Storage Wars and Antiques Roadshow. One of her most memorable moments was when she discovered an old sealed Hot Wheels package that sold for over $400 on ShopGoodwill’s website, a find that really showcased her invaluable talents.

In her role, Yesenia has overcome communication challenges with grace and innovation. One of her advantages is that she can read lips. When she had difficulty hearing or speaking, she used her phone or paper and a pen to communicate. Her Goodwill colleagues were always patient and supportive, often using these methods themselves.

Yesenia particularly cherishes her collaborations with Agosto Cuellar, a prominent figure in San Antonio’s fashion scene. She has had the opportunity to model for his projects during events

like the Dia de los Muertos and Dream Week fashion shows. “These experiences have made me feel important and proud to represent Goodwill.”

Goodwill’s commitment to inclusivity is evident through the accommodations they’ve provided Yesenia, such as interpreters for events and workshops, and the freedom to use captioning apps during meetings. This has enabled her to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the organization. In turn, Yesenia is always happy to teach ASL signs for common workplace words to team members who are curious and willing to learn. She expresses her gratitude towards Goodwill for allowing her to work in an environment that is always positive and compassionate.

Looking ahead, Yesenia envisions a future where Goodwill offers workshops to foster a stronger deaf community in the workplace. She dreams of one day owning her own studio to continue her passion for advertising photography, helping brands tell their stories through her lens.

To others facing significant disabilities, Yesenia bids a powerful message: “Do not give up easily. Show the world your strengths and abilities rather than focusing on what you might lack. Share your superpowers.”

Today and always, Goodwill San Antonio emphasizes the importance of celebrating and spreading awareness about disabilities. The non-profit organization takes pride in dismantling barriers that those with disabilities may face in the workplace, ensuring that these individuals are not only hired, but also championed to succeed and advance in their careers.

Goodwill is dedicated to continuing to lead these efforts to reshape the employment landscape, making a difference in the lives of countless individuals, like Yesenia. Goodwill San Antonio didn’t just give her a chance—they empowered her to forge a path of possibility and determination, inspiring others to do the same.

Story by: Yvonne Byrd, ybyrd@goodwillsa.org