Today we’d like to introduce you to Jacqueline Piza
Hi Jacqueline, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I migrated to the U.S. at 12, and as an undocumented immigrant, I faced significant challenges that shaped my journey. Not learning English until I was 18 significantly impacted my confidence and made it difficult to navigate the world around me. I often felt isolated and struggled to communicate, which added to the challenges I faced. Throughout those tough moments, art became my sanctuary. It has always been a vital part of my life, allowing me to express my feelings and find healing during difficult times.
Being a DACA recipient opened up new opportunities for me. This change sparked my passion for education, leading me to pursue a degree in psychology. I aspire to use my education to uplift my community, especially those facing similar struggles. As a mother of two, I’m deeply committed to creating a better future for my children. This passion drove me to start Piza My Heart Co., where I blend my artistic talent with my desire to connect people through personalized gifts. Each item I create is filled with love and meaning, celebrating the special moments in life.
Balancing the demands of motherhood, school, and running a business can be challenging, but it has taught me resilience, time management, and the importance of persistence. I want my children to see that with hard work, creativity, and a positive mindset, they can overcome any obstacle. My journey has shown me that art is not just a hobby—it’s a powerful tool for healing, connection, and inspiration. Through my experiences, I hope to inspire others to persist, even in the face of adversity.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The journey has certainly not been smooth. As an undocumented immigrant, there were moments of uncertainty about my future and what opportunities would be available to me. I often felt like I didn’t fit in, especially as a first-generation student navigating an unfamiliar educational system. Lacking guidance on how to approach school made the experience even more overwhelming. Being low income added another layer of difficulty to my journey. Financial constraints often limited my access to resources and opportunities, creating additional stress as I tried to balance work, school, and family responsibilities. Ultimately, while the road has been rocky, each struggle has contributed to my growth and resilience, shaping me into who I am today. I’ve learned that perseverance is key, and these experiences have fueled my desire to uplift others in my community facing similar challenges.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
At Piza My Heart.co, I specialize in creating personalized, laser-engraved gifts that resonate with people on a deeper level. My work encompasses a variety of items, including cutting boards, ornaments, and custom keepsakes that celebrate meaningful moments in life. I’m known for infusing each piece with a sense of love and connection, making them perfect for commemorating special occasions or cherishing memories. What sets me apart from others is not just my artistic ability but also the passion I pour into each creation. I believe that every item should tell a story, and I strive to capture the essence of those stories in my designs. As a mother and a first-generation college student, I bring a unique perspective to my work, understanding the importance of connection and the emotional significance behind each gift. I am most proud of how my art has become a means of connecting with others in my community. Whether it’s helping someone commemorate a loved one or celebrating a milestone, I find fulfillment in knowing that my creations can bring joy and comfort. My journey has taught me that art is not just a product; it’s a way to create meaningful experiences and foster connections among people.
How do you think about luck?
Luck has played a significant role in both my life and my business, shaping my journey in unexpected ways. I consider myself fortunate to have received DACA, which opened up opportunities for education and employment that I might not have had otherwise, I truly feel blessed. I’ve also been fortunate to meet amazing people and great mentors who have guided me through challenges and encouraged my growth. This support allowed me to pursue my passions, including starting my business, Piza My Heart.co. I recognize that many people don’t have the same opportunities, and that realization fills me with gratitude. While luck can open doors, it must always be met with hard work to truly turn opportunities into lasting success.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://piza-my-heart.square.site/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pizamyheart.co/?hl=en
Image Credits
Personal Photo- Fatima Elreda Photo
