Dr. Mitch Kushner brings more than 40 years of experience as an Infectious Disease and HIV/AIDS physician and public health leader. A longtime visitor and part-time resident of Puerto Vallarta since the 1970s, Mitch is fluent in Spanish and deeply connected to the local community. He served as City Health Officer of Long Beach and Medical Director for LA County’s Community Health Services, overseeing major public health programs. Mitch has also held board roles with the Shanti Foundation and AIDFOR AIDS International. His passion, empathy, and deep expertise will help strengthen and guide VGCC’s medical and wellness initiatives.
Luis Villavicencio is a renowned Mexican entrepreneur and LGBTQ+ advocate, bringing both a visionary business mind and a generous heart to the VGCC. He is the CEO of Red Companies, a leading digital marketing and tech engagement DRM in Latin America, and the founder of PrideMx, a platform empowering Mexico’s LGBTQ+ community through visibility, education, and cultural celebration.
Luis has led a successful career in technology-driven platforms, and his innovative approach will help elevate the Center into a world-class community resource—not only physically, but also in the digital space, expanding our reach, accessibility, and impact.
Poncho Davalos has over 12 years of experience in real estate and has resided in Puerto Vallarta since 2009. He was born and raised in Monterrey, Mexico. “Our community has grown so much since I arrived in 2009 and so many newcomers have brought energy and interest in establishing a community center,” Poncho said. “I see big opportunities to harness this energy to improve our community’s physical and mental health, as well as to empower and help those in need.
Puerto Vallarta has given a lot to me and it’s my time to give back to the community.” Poncho is the first of two new Adjunct Board members to broaden community representation.
Jet De La Isla is a pivotal leader and communicator within Puerto Vallarta’s LGBTQ+ community. As the Board of Director & Communications Chair at the Vallarta Gay + Community Center, Jet actively enhances health service accessibility and champions inclusivity.
His entrepreneurial spirit is evident in his management of a private boat tour company and a gay youth hostel, reflecting his dedication to adventure and community welfare. Jet’s passions extend to nature exploration and caring for his beloved cats, illustrating his multifaceted commitment to community and personal well-being.
Matt Karimi and his husband settled in Puerto Vallarta in 2019, seeking new experiences after vibrant careers in Los Angeles, Rhode Island, and Las Vegas.
Matt brings a rich background in event production and fundraising, having collaborated with high-profile organizations like The Walt Disney Company, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, and Brown University.
His work spans entertainment, fashion, and sports. A fitness and pilates enthusiast who is exploring tennis, Matt is eager to foster meaningful community connections and positively influence every aspect of his new surroundings.
Mike Owens, from Wilmington, NC, has transitioned his leadership skills from Allstate Insurance to meaningful community service in Puerto Vallarta. Since moving four years ago, Mike has immersed himself in local initiatives, teaching English, supporting feeding programs, and fostering entrepreneurial skills among residents.
A fervent advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, he focuses on HIV/AIDS education and treatment. Mike’s deep commitment to social betterment is reflected in his foundational role at the Vallarta Gay+ Community Center, embodying his belief in contributing positively to society.
Yesenia earned her philosophy degree from the Michoacana University of San Nicolás de Hidalgo. She is a cultural event planner, activist, member of the Vallarta ballroom community, and a strong advocate for community formation. With six years of experience in HIV and STI prevention, detection, and support, she provides compassionate guidance to those receiving treatment.
Choosing activism over academia, she applies her philosophical knowledge to social justice causes, particularly in sexual health and politics. Her work is rooted in radical tenderness and the belief that community is a transformative force for creating safe, inclusive, and lasting social change.
Fatima, originating from Tuxpan, Jalisco, boasts over 15 years of robust nursing experience across various Guadalajara hospitals.
Her expertise covers emergency room and intensive care, major surgical procedures including organ transplants, and the management of sexually transmitted infections.
Fatima is passionately committed to eradicating discrimination and stigma associated with HIV and sexual health, aligning her efforts with her organization’s mission to promote public health and increase disease awareness, thereby enhancing the overall community’s health literacy.
Ashley Hernández is a dedicated medical professional from Puerto Vallarta, educated at the University of Guadalajara with a specialization in sexual health and sexually transmitted infections.
With more than a year and a half of specialized experience, Ashley is actively involved in a civil association aiming to reshape societal views on sexual health, advocating for an approach free of stereotypes and taboos. Committed to fostering an inclusive society, she contributes significantly towards educating and enhancing understanding of sexual health issues.
Don Pickens has significantly shaped the LGBT community in Puerto Vallarta since his arrival in 2002. He founded Casa Cupula, the first LGBT luxury boutique hotel in the city, and spearheaded initiatives like TaxiSafe to address police corruption.
His diverse career includes critical roles at Microsoft and active involvement in local business and neighborhood associations.
Through his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication, Don promotes inclusivity and body positivity, using his extensive experience to foster a sustainable community center that empowers local talents.