MEET RAMON CHAVOYA

I'm a college student, community advocate, and lifelong El Centro resident. I was raised here by two working-class parents alongside my two older brothers. Growing up in El Centro showed me the importance of community. I spent nearly a decade practicing Tae Kwon Do at a local studio, played in the school band, and watched my brothers play soccer on teams organized by members of our community.

 

My parents taught me to treat people with respect, to include others, and to stand up for people who cannot stand up for themselves. Those values have stayed with me throughout my life and ultimately inspired my calling to public service. 

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After graduating from Southwest High School, I earned associate degrees in Political Science and Social Science from Imperial Valley College before transferring to San Diego State University Imperial Valley, where I’m now pursuing Public Administration. Like thousands in El Centro, I'm currently experiencing firsthand what it means to build a future here. While attending college, I’ve worked as a gig worker, including doing DoorDash when I couldn’t find traditional employment despite applying to numerous jobs. One of my goals is for young people to be able to find meaningful opportunities without leaving home.

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My interest in politics eventually turned into action. I began attending City Council and Board of Supervisors meetings, meeting with local leaders, organizing with community members, and speaking up about issues affecting our city.

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Earlier this year, I helped lead an effort to recall Imperial County Supervisor Margarita 'Peggy' Price after many residents felt their questions and concerns were going unanswered, as well as her vote to approve the lot merger for the proposed hyperscale data center in Imperial. That experience showed me that you don’t have to come from a political family or have decades of experience to make an impact. Sometimes, you just have to be willing to step forward and do the work.

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I’m proud to be the first person in my family to graduate from college and the first to run for public office. I’m grateful for everyone who has encouraged me, supported me, and taken me under their wing along the way. But beyond politics, I am a product of El Centro. I love seeing neighbors help each other and I believe it's time that our city puts in their fair share.

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I know I’m not the typical candidate. I’m a student, a worker, and someone still building my own future,

 

And I’m ready to bring that perspective to the City Council.