BIENVENIDO

¡Saludos! Happy Friday and welcome to the 47th edition of Comprende.

The 3 Core Stories:

• This week, we spotlight Kristen Sonday, co-founder and CEO of Paladin, who is revolutionizing pro bono legal work through technology while increasing access to justice for underserved communities.

• Next, we celebrate Ezekiel Pacheco, the first DACA recipient to lead a major Hollywood film, whose journey from South L.A. to the silver screen is breaking barriers and inspiring audiences.

• Finally, we explore Hola Cultura’s efforts to document and preserve D.C.’s Latino murals, vibrant works of art that honor the history and activism of the city’s Latino communities.

So, grab your cafecito or cervecita (depending on where you are), settle in, and if you enjoy, please forward the newsletter to friends or share it on social media! ☕️ 🍺

Kristen Sonday: The Latina CEO Using Tech to Bridge the Justice Gap

As a fellow Puerto Rican who began my career in the legal world and spent countless hours on pro bono efforts, Kristen Sonday’s story feels deeply personal—and her company, Paladin, couldn’t be more necessary.

Kristen is the co-founder and CEO of Paladin, a platform transforming how legal teams connect with pro bono opportunities to increase access to justice. A Latina CEO of Puerto Rican heritage, first-generation college graduate, and mother of two, Kristen has built a career—and a company—to break down barriers for herself and others.

Kristen’s journey began with a sense of duty. Fresh out of Princeton, she worked on international criminal cases for the U.S. Department of Justice, often representing Latino survivors in Mexico and Central America. It was here that she saw how life-changing access to a good lawyer could be—and how impossible that access was for many.

Later, when she teamed up with a fellow lawyer passionate about pro bono work, Kristen had a “light bulb moment”: What if technology could connect underserved communities with attorneys eager to help?

That idea became Paladin.

The platform acts as a hub where legal services organizations can upload cases, match them with volunteer attorneys, and track progress—all with just a few clicks. Gone are the days of scattered spreadsheets and emails.

During my time in the legal field, I found pro bono work to be some of the most meaningful and impactful I’ve ever done. So, I love that Paladin accelerates this process—empowering attorneys to focus on what matters most: making a difference. Paladin has already facilitated thousands of pro bono connections, helping individuals and families navigate cases ranging from asylum to housing disputes.

The impact goes beyond efficiency. By empowering law firms, in-house legal teams, and bar associations to scale their pro bono work, Paladin is tackling a harsh reality: 92% of low-income Americans’ legal needs go unmet. Kristen’s vision is clear—justice shouldn’t depend on income, and technology can help level the playing field.

Kristen Sonday’s story is a powerful reminder that innovation is about more than creating tools—it’s about solving problems that matter. Through Paladin, she’s not just improving access to justice. She’s championing a system where every individual has a shot at being heard and represented.

Ezekiel Pacheco: From DACA to Hollywood’s Spotlight

Ezekiel Pacheco is making history as the first DACA recipient to lead a major Hollywood film. The 27-year-old Mexican actor stars in At the Gates, a gripping thriller about Nico, the teenage son of a Salvadorian housekeeper forced to hide during an ICE raid.

For Pacheco, the role is deeply personal—his own journey as a DACA recipient has shaped not just his career, but his mission to tell authentic stories that resonate with underrepresented communities.

Born in Ayutla de los Libres, Mexico, Pacheco was brought to the U.S. as a baby and grew up in South L.A., helping his family run a snack shop. Acting wasn’t part of the plan until he turned 19, but his drive and talent propelled him to roles in Grey’s Anatomy and On My Block. Now, with At the Gates, he’s using his platform to highlight the resilience and humanity of undocumented immigrants.

Pacheco hopes his work inspires others to empathize with immigrants pursuing better lives. For him, this role is just the beginning.

In a recent interview with Remezcla, Pacho proudly stated: “I have no doubt in my mind that one day I’m going to be very successful…One day, I’m going to be one of the best actors in the world.”

Preserving D.C.’s Latino Murals: A Story of Art and Activism

Having lived in D.C., I often admired the vibrant murals across neighborhoods like Adams Morgan and Mount Pleasant, though I rarely knew the stories behind them. That’s why I was inspired to learn about Hola Cultura, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving and celebrating Latino culture in the nation’s capital.

From creating an interactive map documenting Latino murals to publishing articles and media on arts, history, and community issues, Hola Cultura serves as a bridge between Latino and non-Latino communities.

These murals, painted by Latino artists, are more than just art—they’re acts of activism and cultural expression. Unfortunately, many are at risk due to gentrification and redevelopment. Hola Cultura’s map highlights murals still standing, those lost, and those in danger, like the Unity Mural, which reflects collaboration and heritage.

If you’re in D.C., visiting, or even just virtually, I encourage you to check out this map and explore these powerful works of art—and the stories they tell about the communities that built them.

How to Make: Mexican Esquites

Esquites are a beloved Mexican street food featuring sweet corn mixed with creamy, tangy, and spicy flavors. Here's how to make it at home:

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (about 6 ears of corn)

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1/3 cup mayonnaise

• 1/3 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta as a substitute)

• 2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime)

• 1 teaspoon chili powder (or Tajín for added flavor)

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

• Salt to taste

• Extra lime wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Cook the Corn:

   In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the corn kernels and sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the kernels are tender and slightly charred. If using fresh corn, cut it off the cob beforehand.

2. Season the Corn:

   Once cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in a pinch of salt, lime juice, and chili powder, adjusting to taste.

3. Assemble the Esquites:

   Divide the cooked corn into cups or small bowls. Add a dollop of mayonnaise to each serving and mix well.

4. Add Toppings:

   Sprinkle the esquites with crumbled cotija cheese, more chili powder (or Tajín), and chopped cilantro, if desired.

5. Serve:

   Serve warm with lime wedges on the side for an extra citrusy kick.

Pro Tip:

For added flavor, roast or grill the corn before cutting it off the cob for a smoky touch.

In our last edition, we asked: What Bolivian carnival was declared a UNESCO Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity in 2001?

The right answer was: Carnival of Oruro

The Carnival of Oruro is Bolivia’s most famous festival, celebrated with dazzling costumes, traditional dances, and vibrant parades. Recognized by UNESCO in 2001, this cultural treasure showcases Bolivia’s rich Indigenous and Catholic traditions. The highlight is the "Diablada" dance, a dramatic performance featuring devil costumes and symbolic storytelling. Held annually in the mining town of Oruro, it attracts thousands of visitors from around the world. The carnival is a testament to Bolivia’s cultural heritage and a must-see for anyone visiting the region.

Question:  What sport, played on horseback with a wooden ball, is considered Argentina's national sport?

Reply with your guess! Answers will be revealed in the next newsletter!

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