By Paola Velasco

Josefina Valentini arrived in San Miguel 25 years ago. She is an actress by profession, a coffee grower at heart, and a friend to many. 

How would you describe yourself in three words?

Efficient, committed, fast-paced.

Which song best sums up your life?

“The Paths of Life.” 

What kind of publication would you be the cover of?

Theatrical.

What do you do for fun?

Travel.

What inspires you?

Diversity. 

What do you value most in a person?

Honesty.

What is your ideal vacation plan?

Beach.

What are you most grateful for in life?

My daughters. 

What is your favorite dessert? From where? 

Petits-fours fruit tart.

What is your favorite bad word?

Chingada.

Why live in San Miguel?

For its people, climate, and traditions.

Tequila or mezcal? Where? 

Mezcal from El Manantial.

Taco, torta, tamale? Where? 

Torta, from El Compita.

What public person would you not let into your home?

Chapo Guzman.

If you were able to change anything in the world, what would it be?

Less indifference, more empathy. 

How do you help make San Miguel a better place to live?

By participating in social programs.

What does being a “responsible expat/citizen” of San Miguel mean to you?

It means starting from scratch to build something better. 

What would you recommend to someone considering moving to San Miguel?

To come here, add to, and work in the community. 

What do you think makes San Miguel such a unique/special city?

The mix of cultures and the opportunity to reinvent yourself. 

What most concerns you about San Miguel’s future?

Mobility, water, and overpopulation.  

What most excites you about San Miguel’s future?

The awakening of citizen awareness.