Today we’d like to introduce you to Angelica Gastelum
Hi Angelica, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My name is Angelica Gastelum, and my Olivewood Gardens story began in 2016 when I joined the Cooking for Salud program. As a mother with young children and a family history of diabetes, I wanted to rewrite the legacy of health in our household. Both of my parents have diabetes, and I lost my grandmother to complications from it. This deeply personal experience drove me to seek the tools and knowledge to create healthier versions of traditional recipes for my family.
The 8-week Cooking for Salud program was transformative. It offered not only practical nutrition education—like how to read food labels and make healthier drink choices—but also the power of community. I graduated as part of Generation 7 and became a proud Kitchenista, equipped with skills and inspiration to make lasting changes at home.
In 2018, I returned to Olivewood Gardens, this time enrolling my daughter in the Chefcitos program. Watching her learn to prepare nutritious meals in a hands-on cooking class with her peers was a proud moment. Around the same time, I discovered a part-time job opportunity at Olivewood Gardens and decided to apply. That decision was a turning point, and I’ve been with Olivewood ever since!
Now, six years later, I’m the Communications & Marketing Manager. I’m passionate about combining my love for nutrition, sustainability, and environmental stewardship with marketing and community outreach. As a lifelong learner, Olivewood has been a place of growth for me and my family. My now-teenage children know how to read labels, incorporate fresh produce into their meals, and care for the environment—all lessons rooted in what I’ve learned and shared at Olivewood Gardens.
This journey has come full circle, and I’m so grateful to be part of a community that continues to inspire health, connection, and empowerment.
Olivewood Gardens mission is to inspire youth and adults to be healthy and active citizens through organic gardening, nutrition and sustainable education.
Our Kitchenista graduates to date is over 600!
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The journey hasn’t always been easy. At home, it’s been an ongoing challenge to reduce sugary drinks and consistently add more fruits and vegetables to our meals. Sometimes, the convenience of pre-packaged foods or quick drive-thru meals feels more practical than preparing meals from scratch. Balancing work schedules and the time it takes to plan and cook nutritious meals can be tough, but it’s a commitment that pays off in the long run.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I joined Olivewood Gardens in 2016 as the School Coordinator, building on my experience as a stay-at-home parent actively involved in my kids’ education, including serving on their school board and volunteering in classrooms weekly. In this role, I strengthened relationships with teachers, principals, and partners in the National School District.
With a marketing degree from SDSU and prior experience in the field, transitioning to my current role as Communications & Marketing Manager felt like a natural fit. I’ve grown our social media presence, shared the magic of Olivewood’s 8-acre property, and deepened our connection with the community. My passion for sustainability, nutrition, and communications drives everything I do, and I’m proud to help make Olivewood Gardens a recognized and cherished resource in National City and San Diego.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
Of course the weather is one of the best think about our city! I love the beaches, sun and great food. I dislike unkind people, and people who divide rather than include others.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.olivewoodgardens.org
- Instagram: olivewoodgardens
- Facebook: Olivewood Gardens and Learning Center
- Youtube: Olivewood Gardens and Learning Center
Image Credits
Olivewood Gardens and Learning Center
