Merelin began her advocacy work in California, where she participated in an educational campaign supporting marriage equality and LGBTQIA+ rights. That early experience shaped her passion for building stronger, more inclusive communities through education, service, and civic engagement.

Throughout her career, Merelin has worked in education, supported at-risk youth, and spent eight years in the behavioral health field, gaining experience on both the direct patient care and business operations sides of healthcare. Her diverse professional background has given her a deep understanding of the challenges facing individuals and families, as well as the importance of compassionate, accessible, and equitable services.

Since moving to the Tacoma area, Merelin has continued her commitment to community leadership by serving on Tacoma Public Schools' Equity and Inclusion committees. She also serves on the Board of Trustees at Temple Beth El, where she helps support the congregation's mission of community engagement, education, and social responsibility.

Merelin is ethnically Maya and was born in Guatemala. Merelin is fluent in both English and Spanish and is passionate about building bridges across cultures and communities. She earned her bachelor's degree in Sociology, with a concentration in Counseling and Interviewing, from California State University, Northridge.

As a member of the Rainbow Center Board of Directors, Merelin is honored to support the organization's mission of advancing equity, celebrating diversity, and fostering a welcoming community where LGBTQIA+ individuals can thrive.