The heart and soul of THRIVE are our Community Managers — ringleaders and ringmasters rolled into one. They are here to rock your world, simplify your life, restore your faith in humanity, and basically make your THRIVE experience a bowl of cherries. Minus the pits. Take a moment to meet one of the family.
What’s your hometown?
Elkin, NC. My family is from Venezuela, so we are very loud, crazy and we talk really fast.
Dogs or cats?
Dogs are the only way! I have grown up with dogs. I have white, blue-eyed husky. Her name is Luna and she is very sassy and loves to howl … she thinks she’s human.
Cake or pie or cookies?
I’m from the South so Key lime pie all way! But in reality, my favorite dessert of all time is a fruit tart. Weird, I know.
Most used app on your phone?
Instagram and my email.
Sunrise or Sunset?
Sunset … on the beach with my best friends.
What’s your musical jam?
I listen to just about anything except heavy metal. My two favorite artists right now are Teddy Swims and Patrick Droney.
What song do you want everyone to know?
My current favorite song is “Lose Control” by Teddy Swims (he has the most amazing voice).
Whose autograph or celebrity selfie do you have?
Very sad, but I have never met anyone famous.
Whom do people say you look like?
Patricia … my mother lol.
What’s your favorite neighborhood shop/restaurant?
Target and TJ Maxx.
What’s your favorite comedy?
My absolute favorite comedy show is Friends.
Do you have a nickname?
My family calls me Mimi but most people call me by my last name. I prefer Ortega over Amber … sounds cooler.
Most prized possession?
My best friends, Sarah and Alexa. They are like sisters to me. They have been in my life for a long time and I thank God for them.
What’s your guilty pleasure?
Real Housewives and McDonald’s Chicken McNuggets.
What’s your motto or favorite saying?
“SERIOUSLY!” Or, “Are you kidding me right now?” Or, “Do you get what I’m saying?” Or, “I don’t speak very well English.”
What absolutely excites you right now?
My new job and the opportunities that have presented themselves. I was not looking for a new job but this year has been full of transition and good change. God knew exactly what I needed when I needed it and it brings my heart joy. THRIVE was everything I was looking for and so much more. The fact that I can be in my town where I attend church and live makes it even better. So I am very excited about meeting everyone and seeing faces on a daily basis. I get energy off being around good laughter and good conversation.
What skill does it take to be a great CM?
Be organized, be social, have a big heart for others and your community. Love those that come near you and show compassion. Be yourself and have fun!
You wouldn’t know it to look at me, but …
When I was in elementary school I used to fence. I was a foil fencer. My dad’s side of the family is big on fencing. My granddad, who is 70, is still teaching and giving lessons. We weren’t normal … we chose fencing as the family sport.
