Meet Our staff

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Maria Valenzuela


Executive Director

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As Executive Director of Spaces of Opportunity, I am committed to building transformative programs that uplift individuals and strengthen communities. With more than 25 years of experience in community health, nonprofit leadership, and program development, I have led cross-functional teams, launched strategic initiatives, and secured funding for impactful projects in nutrition, youth workforce development, hot meal delivery, and philanthropy. My passion is rooted in improving health outcomes and expanding access to wellness resources—especially in the very communities that welcomed me when I first arrived in this country. Through collaboration, creativity, and a deep sense of service, I strive to empower people with the tools and opportunities they need to grow, thrive, and lead.
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Sowan Thai


Operations & Program Manager

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Sowan Thai is a Community Farmer who has been working in the agricultural industry for the last 10 years. Sowan first came to spaces in 2017 as an incubator farmer. Since then, he has occupied several roles in order to help shape Spaces into the organization it is today including, but not limited to: Incubator Farm Coordinator, Produce Aggregator, Carpenter, Volunteer Coordinator, Land Manager, Community Farmer, and now Community Food Systems Manager. Sowan has spent most of his time forming relationships with the growers, developing administrative systems for the farm, advising nonprofits, building physical infrastructure, and engaging the community to bring more activity to Spaces of Opportunity.

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Diana Apresa


Food Access & Market Manager

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Diana Apresa brings over a decade of management experience and a strong commitment to increasing food access and community wellness. As the Food Access & Market Manager at Spaces of Opportunity, she leads our farmers market operations, and vendor coordination — all while creating engaging content and strategy for our social media and marketing efforts.

Though not originally from South Phoenix, Diana has proudly called this community home for over 10 years. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family and participating in local activities that bring people together.

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Bryant Cruz


Lead Farmer

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Bryant Cruz holds a bachelor’s degree in Conservation Biology and Ecology from Arizona State University and brings valuable experience from his work with both the USDA and NOAA. As the lead farmer at Spaces of Opportunity, Bryant oversees daily operations that include heavy equipment use for plot management, coordinating apprentice training programs, addressing maintenance needs, and guiding farm improvement projects. His passion lies in sustainable agriculture, organic gardening, and native plant propagation, all of which inform his hands-on leadership and commitment to community-based food systems.

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You’re invited to help keep this community of sustainability growing. Whether you want to volunteer your time, donate or just want to come out and support the market, everyone is welcome to join in and see the opportunities being cultivated in south Phoenix.

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