US@UO Home Tours: Sophia Valenzuela
Meet Sophia Valenzuela, Sustainability & Social Impact for UO. Born and raised in Los Angeles, she has moved
cross-country to UO's hometown of Philadelphia. Sophia invites us into her space to chat finding and creating
community, dinner party playlists, and what makes a space a home. Read on for more!
How did you make Philly feel like home to you?
Being born and raised in LA then coming to Philly to pursue my career without my family by my side, I knew I had to find my community ASAP (creatives, thought leaders, change makers, good hearted people). Philly started to feel like home to me once I met those people and they became home to me, we created safe spaces together. From dinner parties, to movie nights, to getting ready together before local community events, to moving furniture around at midnight. I love that my home (no matter how small) is always the place where my people can come to connect.
What are 3 songs on your dinner party playlist?
How did you know I have the best dinner party playlists? I just shuffled my “2000s Dinner Party” playlist and here are the three songs that came on: Dude by Beenie Man, Let Me Love You by Mario, Hard by Rihanna ft. Jeezy.
How did the UO Home pieces accentuate the vibe that you curated for your space?
They really accentuate the cozy and playful vibe I curated for my space. The modern curves, statement lighting, neutrals with subtle pops of color, and mix of textures all have personality and I feel like when it comes to your decor (much like outfits) they should feel like a reflection of you. I don’t take myself seriously but I still have an attentive eye for design and I feel like the energy of my space reflects that.
How is your identity and passion represented in your space?
My identity is represented in my space through pictures of my family to remind me why I came so far, to pursue my passion of being a Philanthropic Community Leader and proud Latina paving the way for other young creatives. When I sit at my desk everyday I know my ability to have a career grounded in my passion for Impact is only possible through the community that supports me.