Exactly 10 years after going on her first trip with Children to Love to the children's home in India, Eliza joined the staff team at CTL, where she is happy to work with an organization that shares the same passion she has for seeing God's love shown to the forgotten and marginalized.

 

Eliza has a background in photography and journalism. After receiving her degree in Creative Photography with a minor in Journalism at California State University, Fullerton, Eliza moved back to her hometown of Bakersfield and worked as the photographer at the Bakersfield Californian. She later worked at a local TV news station before coming to Children to Love, where she is grateful to use those skills of telling meaningful stories both visually and in writing for the important work done globally and in Christ's name. 

 

Eliza loves working at CTL because seeing the real-life impact her work has in the lives of children and families physically, emotionally and spiritually is life-giving and faith-building. The highlight of her time working with CTL has been getting to return to the children's home in India 11 years after her first trip, now as a member of the staff. Seeing some of the children she met and formed relationships with all those years ago now living full and healthy lives is a testament to the work God is doing in the communities of each CTL partner. She looks forward to hopefully visiting many more of CTL's partners and seeing the unique way God is moving in each ministerial context. 

​

A fun fact about Eliza is that she is currently going through the process with other family members to become a dual citizen through ancestry to Italy. When not working, Eliza and her husband Fernando enjoy staying active and seeking adventure. Going on long walks with her dog, biking, gardening, kayaking, cooking interesting foods, playing pickleball, crafting, hiking or thrifting would all be ideal ways to spend a Saturday for Eliza. 

​

Eliza's favorite scripture is Philippians 4:4-7, "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." 

 

We asked Eliza, "If you were a pasta shape, what shape would you be and why?"

Eliza: "I think I would be cavatappi, because I try to capture all the 'sauce' of life, while also embracing the twists and turns as a chance for new adventures! Plus, I think everyone could use a little more whimsy."