About Maria:

Maria has worked nearly 23 years of her life in the janitorial industry, showing up day after day with fierce love for her children and grandchildren. Her journey to becoming an instructor was deeply personal. Hearing the testimonies of others brought back memories she had long carried. She chose to heal and do the hard work of leaving the past behind, and to keep learning and growing in the present. She builds her family up, she builds herself up, and now she is here to help build a safer industry for those who come after her. Her commitment is an act of courage, and her story is a reminder that it is never too late to rise.

Maria Bastida completed a 40-hour training course to become a certified professional instructor in the Prevention of Sexual Harassment and Abusive Behavior in the Cleaning Industry.