Justice Champion Spotlight: Hazel Ortega

Hazel Ortega is a Latina entrepreneur, author, educational psychologist, and philanthropist who shares her powerful story on how she broke the cycle of poverty through education. As the CEO and Founder of High Tide Global, Hazel works to bring educational and mental health programs to students worldwide to uplift underserved communities, including justice-impacted individuals. Born and raised in Los Angeles, California, she has continued her work stateside and in Mexico, Puerto Rico, Colombia, Guatemala, Uganda, and El Salvador. Her recent awards include the 2024 Orange County Inspiration Nominee from Women in Leadership, the 2023 Global Social Impact Award from Entrepreneurs’ Organization, and the 2020 Latina of Influence Honoree from Hispanic Lifestyle.  

Tell us your story- Why start High Tide Global?   

I firmly believe that education can change lives and help many create a better future for themselves. I started High Tide Global, a nonprofit that uplifts communities through educational tools, boosting student mental health through mindset programs, and bringing world-class knowledge to those that need it most. Helping children from underserved communities and those who have been formerly incarcerated to complete their education has always been important to me and is a passion of mine.  

My personal story fuels my passion for helping others improve their lives. Growing up in Echo Park, Los Angeles in the 1980s, I witnessed gangs ruling the streets, while my parents were part of the judicial system. I didn’t finish high school, and it wasn’t until later that a Latino attorney, who was my boss at the time, encouraged me to complete my education. At age 30, I earned my high school diploma, and I continued my educational journey, constantly mentored and pushed by others who recognized the value of education. I eventually earned my master's degree in psychology. Now, I use my experiences to demonstrate the transformative value of education in creating opportunities for a brighter future.  
   

Tell us about Pushy Angels. How does mentorship change lives?   

Everyone needs a little push at times, and having someone there to guide you can make all the difference. A mentor provides valuable support, encouragement, and insight, helping the person being mentored learn and grow. This relationship allows the mentee to gain confidence, develop new skills, and navigate challenges more effectively.  

At the same time, mentors benefit from the experience as well. By sharing their knowledge and expertise, they reinforce their own understanding and often gain fresh perspectives from their mentees. This reciprocal relationship fosters a sense of fulfillment and personal development for both parties, creating a dynamic environment where both the mentor and the mentee continue to evolve. 
   

What excites you the most about High Tide and its programs?  

I’m most excited when I see the results of our efforts and receive positive feedback from the schools and individuals we support. The impact that we create in these communities is incredibly rewarding and truly transformative. Often, we take for granted things like well-equipped classrooms, access to indoor water for hygiene, and programs that empower individuals to reach their full potential. However, for many people, these resources are essential and greatly impact their ability to thrive. Providing access to these fundamental necessities not only improves daily life but also opens doors to new opportunities and growth. At Hight Tide Global, the ability to help communities in such meaningful ways brings immense satisfaction and reinforces our commitment to making a lasting difference.  
   

You’ve advocated for access to education for previously incarcerated individuals. Was there a particular moment or experience that drove you to get involved?  

It wasn't just one singular moment that inspired me, but rather a combination of many experiences. Seeing how education changed my life made me realize how it could have done the same for many people in the community where I grew up — people who never really got a fair chance. Meeting individuals who have faced challenges and feel stuck in a system that only offers educational opportunities to a select few has shown me how vital education is for reintegrating into society. Education plays a crucial role in reducing recidivism and offers a path to a better future.  

There are countless success stories of people who, when given the right tools and someone who believes in them, have changed their lives for the better. In doing so, they also positively impact the lives of those around them. This creates a ripple effect of positive change, demonstrating the profound power of education.  
   

What role do businesses and their leaders play in creating a fairer and more equal society? How has that role evolved in recent years?  

Businesses need to consider their important role in impacting the community and the reputational risk of excluding qualified candidates based on stigma. They must recognize the true value of their employees. By investing in their workforce through additional education and empowering programs, companies can foster a sense of appreciation and value among their employees. When workers feel invested in, they are more likely to bring increased value to the business, contributing to its growth and resilience, even during times of change. Leaders who understand this will build businesses that are more successful and robust in the long run.  
   

What have been the most important takeaways for your experiences so far?   

For me, it's all about seeing the impact I can make. Whether I'm traveling for personal reasons or business, I always make it a point to dedicate a day to creating a positive impact in the local community. I like to call it 'travel with a purpose.' I just completed an inspiring nine-day speaking and social impact tour in Mexico. Starting in the beautiful San Miguel de Allende, I shared my story and workshop with entrepreneurs, encouraging them to dream big. I made three television appearances and sponsored an anti-bullying play for justice-impacted families, donating over 200 pairs of shoes. I finished my journey in Mexico City, spending time at an orphanage, bringing love and joy to the kids. One Person Can Make a Difference, That Person Can Be YOU.

How can individuals support your work?   

Help connect our participants with potential employers who are open to second chances, ensuring they have the tools and support needed to rebuild their lives and contribute positively to their communities. 

What’s a fact about yourself that would surprise people?  

A fact about myself that might surprise people is that I went from being a high school dropout, living month-to-month on welfare and food stamps, to running multi-million dollar businesses, and working as an educational psychologist and global speaker. My journey taught me that with the right mindset, anyone can create miracles and transform their life.