Meet Yudelis

 

Yudelis is Cuban. She was born in 1982 and grew up in a Socialist society as a curious, loved, dreamer girl. Always wondering about the world outside of her island. She came to West Michigan in the Summer of 2024 with her daughter, an empty suitcase, and great expectations.

She is a leader from the Christian Reformed Church in Cuba, where she studied Theology and was trained as a teacher, executive assistant, English interpreter, and other general skills. Once in Grand Rapids, she started working as a Teacher Aide in the Spanish Immersion program. She was able to achieve the dream of enrolling her daughter in a Christian School. They were connected to Grand Rapids Christian Schools through their new church, with more than 60 years of History with Cuba: La Grave Ave Christian Reformed Church.

In the summer 2025, their legal status was affected by Immigration laws, and she was unemployed for 6 months. In the meantime, she was doing community work at some Social programs and Christian Schools. During Christmas 2025, she received her work permit and was able to start over and find a new job. Talking to a friend, she was advised about some job opportunities at Treetops Collective. Without knowing where she was going, she applied for a job at Treetops and met with Taryn. They both immediately connected. After that, she met Amina, who also saw potential in her. Treetops was her highlight of 2025.

Yudelis is so connected to her people in Cuba. She has been focused on finding waivers and support for Cubans. She has collected donations to send through CRC to the island. She also came back to work in Christians Schools as a Bible teacher at GRCMS.

West Michigan has become home for this woman and her 17 year old daughter. They feel welcome and helpful in our society. Enjoying serving, growing, and sharing hope with many more to come.