How Ricky Ruiz Became the Youngest Oregon Representative | Voice of the Latino Community
From standing in line at a food bank with his immigrant parents to becoming the youngest representative in the Oregon Legislature, Ricky Ruiz shares one of the most powerful and human stories we’ve ever heard on Aquí Entre Nos.
In this episode, recorded in the City of Gresham, Oregon, Ricky opens up about what it really means to break generational cycles. He reflects on growing up in an immigrant household, the moments that shaped his sense of responsibility, and how soccer became a lifeline—a discipline that kept him grounded, focused, and moving forward when the odds were stacked against him.
But this conversation goes deeper than politics.
Ricky talks about the emotional weight of being the voice of the Latino community in Oregon, the pressure of representation, and the responsibility that comes with sitting at tables where families like his were never meant to be represented. He shares what it feels like to carry the hopes, fears, and dreams of an entire community—while never forgetting where he came from.
This episode is about:
• Immigration and identity
• Breaking cycles of poverty
• Representation and leadership
• The power of community and mentorship
• What it truly means to serve
🎙 Aquí Entre Nos is a community-driven podcast focused on real conversations, lived experiences, and stories that rarely make it into headlines—but shape our cities every day.
📍 Filmed in Gresham, Oregon
🎥 Direction, production, and editing by Aquí Entre Nos Media
🎙 Hosted by Héctor & Xiomara
📸 Cameras and visual support by Eli Studio
If you’ve ever been told “people like you don’t make it,” this episode is proof that not only do we make it — we lead.
👉 Watch the full episode, share it with your community, and be part of the conversation.
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