From Caregiving to Workforce Advocacy: When Life Reminds You of What Truly Matters

A few weeks ago, life reminded me just how unpredictable it can be. My husband’s health took a sudden turn, and in that moment, everything else faded. It wasn’t the first time I’ve been a caregiver, but this time felt different. It shook me to my core, and I found myself questioning everything—my strength, my priorities, and even my purpose.

Let’s get real: caregiving isn’t just about managing responsibilities. It’s emotional. It’s messy. It makes you feel like you’re caught in a storm with no map to guide you. And yet, it’s these moments that force us to pause and reflect on what truly matters.

The Other Side of the Storm

As I navigated this deeply personal moment, I couldn’t help but think about the professional world I’ve built. My organization, Aha Workforce Education Solutions, has been my passion for over a decade. This year alone, we’ve provided over 200 language access services and assessments—opening doors for people whose voices might otherwise go unheard.

Language is power. It’s connection. It’s access. And yet, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, over 25.6 million people in the U.S. speak English “less than very well.” These individuals often face barriers in healthcare, education, and the workforce. My team and I are on a mission to change that.

Whether it’s helping a city improve its hiring processes or ensuring students in a school district can connect with their educators, our work is about more than translation—it’s about empowerment.

And let’s not forget the bigger picture: the workforce is evolving. As a Department of Labor Employer Apprenticeship Ambassador, I’ve had the privilege of championing initiatives that help underserved communities gain access to life-changing career paths. But this isn’t just about creating jobs—it’s about building futures.

The Intersection of Leadership and Humanity

Balancing caregiving and leadership has been one of the hardest challenges of my life. There were moments when I felt lost—questioning if I could keep going, if I was enough. But then I reminded myself of who I am.

I am a first-generation Hispanic woman, a leader, a business owner, and a caregiver. I’ve been honored at the White House, celebrated by governors, and even helped shape state-level workforce proclamations. But let me tell you something: none of those titles or accolades matter if I can’t lead with authenticity and heart.

Here’s the truth: resilience isn’t about having it all together. It’s about showing up, even when you feel like falling apart.

The Numbers Tell the Story

• 53 million Americans are caregivers, balancing this role with their careers. (National Alliance for Caregiving)
• 61% of caregivers are women, many of whom are professionals navigating multiple responsibilities. (AARP)
• In workforce development, language barriers affect millions, yet access to resources can significantly improve community outcomes.

These numbers aren’t just statistics—they’re stories. They’re people like you and me who are trying to make a difference, even when the odds feel stacked against us.

Why I Share

I share my story not because I have all the answers, but because I care. I’ve learned that vulnerability isn’t weakness—it’s power. It’s a way to connect, to inspire, and to remind others that they’re not alone.

As I move forward, my journey will evolve. My work in workforce advocacy and language access will continue, but my approach will be different. I’ll focus on what truly matters: empowering people, breaking barriers, and showing up—even when life gets messy.

A Call to Action

To my fellow leaders, caregivers, and changemakers: Life will test you. It will force you to adapt, to question, and to grow. And that’s okay. The key is to keep showing up—not just for others, but for yourself.

Because at the end of the day, resilience isn’t about perfection—it’s about persistence. And together, we can create a world where everyone has a seat at the table—and a voice that’s heard.

#LanguageAccess #Leadership #Caregiving #WorkforceDevelopment #DiversityMatters #NeverGiveUp

Your Chica - iliana (EYE-LEE- ANA) Sutton