Participants

Jen Velasquez

Hi! I’m Jen and I have been involved with the CEC as chair since 2021. As a previous participant in 2020, I know firsthand the power of this challenge. I am looking to get back to the success I experienced then, both in terms of weight and other amazing side effects – energy, confidence, good habits! I travel a lot but I am committing to making small changes for the next six months that will set me on a good path for life. Losing weight and getting healthy is no longer just about looking and feeling good – it has become about longevity and having a good quality of life as I age. I really look forward to doing all this as I eat more fruits and vegetables – which is what we in the industry ask of consumers. Cheers to good health! 

Jessica Ortega

Hello everyone! My name is Jessica Ortega. I’m a proud wife and the mother of two beautiful daughters who bring joy and inspiration to my life every day. For the past 26 years, I have dedicated myself to the produce industry.  I currently serve as Director of Sales at Gills Onions. I’m grateful to work with a wonderful team of individuals who inspire me daily 

 Life can become quite hectic with work and family commitments, and I often find myself putting my own needs on the back burner. However, I’m thrilled to participate in this challenge for the third time, as it helps me prioritize my well-being and stay focused on my personal goals. Throughout my previous challenges, I've had the privilege of meeting wonderful friends who share similar aspirations, and I’m excited to reconnect with this supportive network once again. I’m fully committed to continuing my journey of self-improvement, maintaining a positive mindset, and drawing inspiration from the incredible individuals in this community. Let’s make the most of this experience together! 

Lexi Bonner

I’m Lexi Bonner, a PR manager who’s spent almost eight years helping fresh produce brands tell their stories in engaging and meaningful ways. At home, I’m a wife and mom to Theo, and much of my focus over the past few years has centered around navigating his medical needs—he has Cerebral Palsy and Epilepsy—and making sure our family is supported and cared for first. 

Now that we have a clearer understanding of how to care for our sweet boy, and an incredible medical team behind him, I’m finally able to pour some energy back into myself. Joining the clean eating challenge is my way of prioritizing my health, building the physical strength I need to age well and care for him as he grows, and finding a healthier balance while still showing up fully for both my family and my work. My “why” will always be Theo—but I’m ready to bring myself back into the mix, too. 

Lilly Garcia

Hi, I’m Lilly Garcia and I work with the Texas International Produce Association as the office manager, helping with event planning and different committees. Life keeps me busy balancing work, raising three teens (Anna, Aaron, and Bernice), and keeping up with my pups — but I wouldn’t trade it for anything. 

I decided to join the Clean Eating Challenge because of my health. I struggle with weight, diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure, and those run in my family. My nieces Ariel, Michele, and Lorrena are my reason to take this step so I can be healthier and have more energy. 

My goals are simple but important: I want to lose weight, lower my numbers, eat and cook healthier, and build better habits. Most of all, I want to have the energy to run around with my dogs and enjoy family games without feeling so worn out. 

Outside of work, my favorite thing is spending time with my family and just relaxing with my pets. This challenge is a way for me to put myself first for once, while still being the best I can be for the people I love. 

Susy Siqueiros

Hello, I'm Suzy and I’m in logistics at Index Fresh. My job is to keep things moving smoothly, but sometimes that means my own nutrition takes a backseat. For me, this challenge is about more than just weight loss it's about reclaiming my health and creating a system that works for my demanding job. My goal for this challenge is to improve my energy and focus, manage my weight, and finally start applying the same level of organization to my meals that I do to my shipping routes. 

Tommy Wilkins

This is my second time participating in the Clean Eating Challenge, and it’s a journey I truly believe in. I’ve long believed that nourishing our bodies with more fruits and vegetables is powerful, healing medicine. When the opportunity came around again, I found myself in a season of life where preparing for my next chapter felt especially meaningful. I want to show up healthier and stronger for my family—especially my grandkids. With a few areas my doctor encouraged me to improve, saying yes to this challenge felt natural. The accountability and community help me stay focused and intentional as I continue building habits that support lasting health and wellness.