Hi! My name is Idaliana Medina and I am a proud product of Worcester, where I grew up in a vibrant mixed Caribbean household, embracing my Puerto Rican and Bajan backgrounds. My professional journey has provided me the opportunity to graduate from 3 local colleges and work at a few local nonprofits, helping to improve the community I love.
On the other hand, I am a classically trained Pastry Chef, and my culinary education led me to the heart of France during a summer study abroad. I have been baking for over 10 years now and what started as a passion project has changed my life in so many ways. My favorite things I learned in culinary school were how to make fresh bread, homemade ice cream, and how to plate desserts.
Outside of work and baking, I am a mother to a 2.5-year-old toddler boy, who is my absolute pride and joy. He keeps me on my toes and is such a blast to be around. I am also an avid music listener (specifically reggaeton), concert goer, and self-proclaimed foodie.
Q: Please tell us about your current career and what you love most about what you do?
I am the Director of Community Engagement at the United Way of Central MA. I manage all volunteering aspects and two of our signature programs. The best part about my job is the volunteers that help make our programs successful. I have met some amazing people in my time at UWCM.
Q: What is your favorite restaurant in Worcester, and what is your favorite dish?
My current favorite restaurant is Raices. It is Puerto Rican cuisine and reminds me of being home on the island. They have this sampler platter that has everything you can ask for. It’s my go to order every single time.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve ever met?
My godfather, Lowell Alexander. He knows a lot about so many topics, has traveled to so many places, and has experienced so many things. Talking to him is always a fun time.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
My answer is always Puerto Rico. It is my happy place and the sense of peace and relaxation I feel there is unmatched.
Q: What is your go to band when you can’t decide what to listen to?
Bad Bunny! Always. To me he is the top Spanish artist and all his music brings me good vibes or puts me in the best mood.
Q: What is your best advice?
Cada sonrisa tiene una historia y cada lagrima tiene un recuerdo. It translates to every smile has a story and every tear has a memory. Life will have its ups and downs but in the end, it will all be worth it.
Q: What is one of the top three items on your Bucket List?
I would love to run a marathon. I am nowhere near being a runner, let alone running a marathon, but it is on my list. Specifically, the Boston Marathon since it’s the one from home.
Q: What current/former local business makes you the most nostalgic about Worcester?
Pickle Barrel. My family has been going since I can remember. I still love going and keeping the Friday Fish and Chip tradition going.
Q: Choosing anyone alive and a non-relative with whom would you love to have lunch? Why?
I would love to have lunch with Mark Ruffalo. He has been my favorite since I saw him in 13 Going On 30. I know it would be a fun time.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
in 10 years, I hope I am running a nonprofit that is either youth or volunteer focused. I love the work I am currently doing and would hope that in 10 years I am able to expand that.
Q: What is something interesting that most people don’t know about you, even your friends or family.
I played soccer for 8 years and got so good that me and two other girls were invited to play on the all-boys team because they needed help. If you asked me back then, I was going to be a professional soccer player, but I unfortunately broke my foot and ended those dreams before college.
Q: What 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
1) Friends & Family, 2) Good Food, & 3) Welcoming
Q: If a motion picture was made of your life, what actor/actress would you choose to play you?
Zoe Saldana
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about Worcester?
My favorite thing about Worcester is the sense of community. When you have the support of the Worcester community, they really come and show out for you time and time again. It’s an amazing feeling to have experienced that myself and to be a part of that community for others.
Q: What is your favorite smell?
This is a very pastry chef answer, but it’s a tie between fresh baked bread or the smell of whipped butter with a hint of vanilla.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My son. Since having him, my whole life has changed. I want to show him that he can do anything he sets his mind to do and that mom has been able to do the same.
