Nalleli Cobo Helped Change California Law Before She Could Vote

Who is a woman who has inspired or mentored you, and what lessons from her influence have stayed with you?

“I’ve always said that if I can be even 1% of the woman my mom is, I am more than enough. My mother is the epitome of strength.  As a single mother, she has cared for and provided for our family with unwavering dedication. She is also a fierce community organizer and activist who has spent her life fighting for what’s right.

From a young age, she taught me never to let an injustice go unchallenged, no matter how intimidating it may feel to speak up. She has always led by example, and every day, I learn something new from her—whether it’s through her commitment to our community or her passion for protecting our planet.

My activism began when I was just nine years old, standing alongside my mom. What started with door-to-door organizing after school and work evolved into something much bigger: passing SB1137, a statewide buffer zone law in California. This legislation prohibits new oil wells from operating within 3,200 feet of sensitive land, such as homes, schools, and hospitals. Existing wells within that buffer zone are required to adopt stronger health and safety regulations.

My mom has always believed that every story deserves to be heard. She’s a dreamer who taught me to envision a world where my community thrives—and to work tirelessly to make that vision a reality.

She inspires me to be a better leader, a stronger advocate for my community, and a better person overall. I am truly blessed to have a mother like her—someone I can always lean on, seek advice from, and most importantly, call my best friend.”