Fatima Cuatlacuatl was born in Puebla, Mexico. She immigrated to the United States with her family at the age of 2. Raised in Oakland, CA, Fatima was exposed to a diverse set of cultures and groups of people fostering an open mindedness and respect for others. Being raised by two hard working immigrant parents, Fatima was instilled the values of perseverance and hard work.  

Fatima started her advocacy in high school by joining the organization Youth in Action. As part of the organization, she helped organize student lead discussions on topics of injustices occurring in the Oakland community and contributed to organizing student lead protests. Through the organization she was able to help amplify the voices of students in her school and community.

Fatima believes the best way to improve a community comes from the work of its own members and has demonstrated this passion by volunteering at two Oakland elementary schools during after-school programs. Through her volunteering, she has worked one on one with students, assisting them with school work and guiding them through conflicts. Fatima hopes to continue her work with students by pursuing a career in education.

A first-generation student, Fatima is pursuing a major in sociology and a minor in Latinx studies at San Francisco State University. She hopes to then pursue a master’s degree in education. Navigating the U.S. education system as an undocumented and first-generation student has sparked Fatima’s passion to work with students with similar lived experiences to help improve the resources provided for them.

As a DreamSF Fellow, Fatima has been placed to work with Mujeres Unidas y Activas (MUA), where she will be working to help support women who have experienced domestic violence. At MUA she will be working along other strong women to help expand and strengthen the advocacy of women. Fatima is excited to be working with MUA and contribute to the empowerment of women.

Fatima enjoys spending time in nature and with friends and family. She appreciates a good cup of coffee, watching the sunset, and loves exploring new coffee shops.