Antonio Valbuena

“Antonio Valbuena’s journey from Maracaibo, Venezuela, to Herriman, Utah, is a testament to his deep sense of community and passion for service. Born in 1967 into a family rooted in Venezuela’s cattle industry, Antonio was raised with strong values of compassion and social responsibility. His father, a humble yet influential figure in his life, taught him the importance of giving back, particularly to those with fewer resources. The family ranch regularly supported a nearby elementary school by donating supplies and uniforms, and Antonio’s father made sure to maintain the school’s facilities. This tradition of service stayed with Antonio, inspiring him to continue similar efforts in the community long after leaving Venezuela.

In 2018, Antonio and his family moved to the United States, seeking safety and opportunity amidst the growing instability in Venezuela. He initially settled in Houston, Texas, before relocating to Herriman in early 2019. From the moment he arrived in Utah, Antonio knew he wanted to continue his father’s legacy of community involvement. Herriman, a city that he describes as peaceful, modern, and filled with welcoming people, became his new home. He quickly found ways to immerse himself in the local community, and his dedication to service led him to participate in two key city committees.

Antonio currently serves on Herriman’s Citizen Advisory Board with the police department and represents the city on Utah County’s Community and Economics Development Advisory Committee. These roles have allowed him to bridge gaps between the Hispanic community and local authorities, working towards greater integration and understanding. His goal is to help build stronger, more connected communities by encouraging participation and fostering collaboration. He takes pride in living in a city where local leaders, like Mayor Lorin Palmer, have been supportive of his efforts to engage the Hispanic population.

Antonio’s diverse background and professional experiences have greatly contributed to his success in community work. His education spans various fields: in 1987, he became a private pilot, in 1990, he earned a degree as an animal production engineer, and in 2008, he completed his studies in law. Despite his impressive credentials, Antonio’s true passion lies in community service. Since arriving in Herriman, he has dedicated himself to helping others and advocating for the rights and contributions of immigrants, particularly Venezuelans.

Like many immigrants, Antonio has faced challenges related to his background. The stereotype that Venezuelans are tied to illegal immigration is a stigma that he works to combat every day. He knows firsthand the reality that most Venezuelan immigrants are hardworking, educated, and law-abiding citizens. Antonio sees this as an ongoing challenge but believes in the power of education and participation to change perceptions. By involving himself in the community and leading by example, he aims to demonstrate the value immigrants bring to society.

One of Antonio’s key lessons from his experiences is that integration cannot happen without active involvement. For him, it’s a daily, continuous effort, and he’s thankful for the support he’s received from Herriman’s local authorities in this mission. He’s learned that building strong relationships and participating in civic life are crucial for creating a sense of belonging.

Looking ahead, Antonio hopes to expand the community projects he started in Herriman to other cities in the Salt Lake Valley. He’s proud of the progress he’s made and is especially grateful for the freedom and opportunities his family has found in the United States. Giving back to the country that has offered his family safety and a better future is what motivates him to continue his work. Antonio is determined to help others understand the value of immigrants and the important role they play in building vibrant, inclusive communities.”