BLOG: An Interview with Saira Galindo Vazquez about exploring the outdoors

During this Hispanic Heritage Month, I'm excited to share this interview between OTC founder, Kara Lapso, and her dear friend and OTC Board Member, Saira Galindo Vazquez (ella/she/her). Saira is an incredible woman whom we're so thankful to know and love. It It is both an honor and a privilege to know her and have her wealth of knowledge, passion, and lived experiences to help guide our mission and support our work.

How do you identify in the world? Tell us about who you are.

I identify as a brown, Latin, undocumented scholar, educator, daughter, sister, lover, and friend. These parts of my identity shape not only how I navigate the world but also how I approach new experiences. My background informs my perspectives, giving me a deep sense of connection with my community and a desire to create spaces where others feel they belong—especially in places where we are often underrepresented, like the outdoors.

What is your WHY for the outdoors? Does it fill your bucket? Feed your soul?

The outdoors fills my soul with warmth. There’s something about being surrounded by nature that brings peace and a sense of calm, even in the most challenging moments. It grounds me, making me feel connected to something larger than myself. It gives me a space to reflect, recharge, and reconnect with my own essence.

Connecting with nature has deep roots in many Hispanic cultures, where outdoor spaces have traditionally been places of family gatherings, storytelling, and community celebrations. Engaging in outdoor activities is more than just recreation—it’s a way to honor our ancestors' relationship with the land, from farming and fishing to seeking solace in nature's beauty. Whether hiking, gardening, or simply enjoying a park, being in nature can help us reconnect with our heritage, nurture our well-being, and inspire us to protect the environment for future generations. Embracing the outdoors allows us to preserve the balance between our cultural traditions and the natural world.

What barriers have you experienced or do you currently experience with outdoor activities?

Outdoor activities can feel inaccessible for people like me. The outdoor world, particularly in the U.S., is often dominated by white people for white people. Growing up in a low-income household, I didn’t have access to outdoor activities—there were no camping trips or hiking adventures in my childhood. I also didn’t know many people in my community who actively participated in the outdoor world, so it was intimidating to try and figure out where to start. Financial constraints, lack of experience, and not knowing anyone who "did it" were huge barriers. Slowly, I’ve navigated these challenges by connecting with others who share a passion for the outdoors and by seeking out accessible entry points into activities like hiking and camping.

Was or is there an aspect of the outdoors that intimidates you, but you would like to explore?

14ers and camping. Tackling a 14er—a peak that exceeds 14,000 feet in elevation—is something that both intimidates and excites me. Camping, especially in remote areas, is another activity I want to explore further, but I’ve found it challenging to step into these spaces.

Food: What is your favorite camping meal or trail snack? What about it do you love, and what is the recipe?

Hotdogs with veggies are my go-to camping meal. It's simple, easy to prepare, and always hits the spot after a long day of exploring. 

Outdoor Oops: What essential item have you forgotten to bring on a trip? What mistake have you made while adventuring?

I’ve definitely had my share of "outdoor oops" moments! One time, I forgot to bring enough socks and ended up regretting it. Another common mistake I’ve made is not dressing in enough layers, especially in unpredictable weather conditions. Those are hard lessons you don’t forget!

What excites you about OTC's mission?

What excites me the most about OTC’s mission is our focus on connecting people through the outdoors. There’s power in shared experiences, especially in spaces where communities like mine often feel excluded. Bringing people together through nature, fostering relationships, and breaking down barriers to access—that’s something I can stand behind wholeheartedly.

What was your hardest adventure? Why was it hard, and what did you learn along the way?

One of my hardest adventures was trying to hike a 14er and camping in the desert in April. The elevation combined with the unpredictable desert weather made it physically and mentally tough. I learned the importance of preparation and the value of pacing myself, but also that it’s okay to lean on others for guidance when you’re stepping outside your comfort zone.

What creates a great outdoor experience for you?

A great outdoor experience for me is being with someone who knows what to do. Having someone there who can guide you and make you feel more confident in unfamiliar environments makes all the difference. It allows me to focus on enjoying the experience rather than worrying about the logistics or safety.

If you could go back and tell your inexperienced self some outdoor wisdom, what would it be?

If I could go back, I’d tell my inexperienced self to bring more socks and dress in layers! But more importantly, I’d say: don’t be afraid to take that first step. The outdoors might feel intimidating at first, but there’s a whole world out there waiting to be explored. Don’t let fear or uncertainty hold you back—lean on others, ask questions, and just go for it!