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Meet Beatriz Medel: Bilingual Communications Specialist

Post Date:05/09/2022

A long-time Hillsboro and Washington County resident from a Spanish-speaking household, Beatriz Medel understands the language barriers that exist in government communications. Beatriz is excited to contribute her knowledge of digital platforms and community work to assure Spanish-speaking residents have access to communications in the language they understand.

Beatriz’s background includes five years in marketing and almost three years of community work with local nonprofit, Adelante Mujeres. Working with the Latino/e community has strengthened her passion for serving the community, and she hopes to bring a new and valuable perspective to help expand on the work the City is already doing.

Beatriz, what drew you to this work?

I have a real passion for storytelling, whether it be in written form, video, or design — it’s something that has always brought me joy.

A few years back, I realized how important it is to become involved within my community, especially as a person of color who grew up in a bilingual household. I grew up in Hillsboro and have lived in Washington County for most of my life.

My lived experiences, passion for storytelling, and ability to connect with the Spanish-speaking community has given my work purpose, and that is something I don’t take lightly. So, when the opportunity presented itself to mesh all three with the City of Hillsboro, I jumped on it.

How does your job directly benefit Hillsboro community members?

My work has a direct impact on community members, specifically Spanish speakers who may have felt like there hasn’t been enough accessible communications in a language they understand.

In my position, we have a dedicated person in the City that understands and identifies with the community and can spot areas of opportunity in communications. This allows us to expand our Spanish communication efforts across digital planforms, like social media and the website, but also in person.

Beatriz Medel filming

Who inspires you?

My parents inspire me. Thanks to their hard work, I have the privilege of doing the work I do. Knowing they had to navigate complex systems in a foreign language has given me the drive to be a part of the solution. I think they’re proud to see me in a place of fulfillment with my work.

Beatriz Medel with her mother

What are your personal favorites in Hillsboro?

A lot of my favorite things in Hillsboro are childhood activities and places that I can now enjoy with my family. I grew up playing soccer, so one of my favorite parks is 53rd Avenue Community Park. The facilities are beautiful — I have always loved playing there and now I get to see my daughter play there with the Hillsboro Soccer Club.

I also loved going to the Tuesday and Saturday Markets with my mom or friends, and now my daughter loves to go with me. We always get donuts from Mama’s Mini’s when we’re there.

Tuesday Market

Tell us something people wouldn’t guess about you?

I know how to dance! My sister owns Line’s Dance Academy in Downtown Hillsboro, so naturally she was my dance teacher in high school. I think the way I carry myself doesn’t match the Latin dancing energy most think of so, some people are surprised when I mention that.

On the topic of siblings, my brother Ernesto Villaraldo works in the Hillsboro Police Department, so we work together a lot!