In a city once known as the most dangerous in the world, a young girl watched border agents tear apart cars in search of drugs. It wasn’t a movie. It wasn’t the news. It was Juileta’s childhood.
Growing up in Juárez, Mexico—where drug trafficking was a daily reality—Juileta saw firsthand the devastating impact of substance misuse on individuals, families, and entire communities. But what set her apart was a simple, powerful question she kept asking: “Why is this normal?”
Instead of turning a blind eye, Juileta turned toward purpose.
Today, nearly 20 years into her prevention work in the U.S., Juileta mentors youth, trains parents and teachers, and walks into classrooms not to lecture—but to listen. Her message is grounded in truth, empathy, and one guiding belief:
“Knowledge is power. The more you know, the better decisions you can make.”
This episode of Pathways to Prevention isn’t just a story—it’s a roadmap. Juileta shows us what it means to lead with understanding instead of fear, to ask hard questions, and to build trust through facts rather than scare tactics. Whether she’s working with teens on the brink of experimentation or handing out a single prevention booklet, she reminds us that even the smallest acts can save lives.
In a world where misinformation spreads fast and drug trends evolve rapidly, Juileta’s quiet, consistent leadership is a call to all of us: Prevention isn’t about control. It’s about connection.
🎧 Listen to the full episode to hear:
- Juileta’s incredible journey from Juárez to Florida
- How she builds trust with youth through real conversation
- Why “just say no” doesn’t work—and what does
- A true story of how one prevention booklet changed a life
