Baja Angels of the Sea was founded in 2019 in Rosarito Mexico, BCN. With our 501(c)3 status we are able to facilitate the utilization of donations for any and all orphanages we can help.
Children without families are the most vulnerable people in the world. With successful projects, we hope to make the lives of these orphans better and this orphanage a model for future projects as we expand our efforts.
Our Team
Bruno Barbieri
Founder, CEO
Bruno Barbieri, the heart behind Baja Angels of the Sea, has dedicated his life to serving vulnerable children across the globe. His journey began nearly 20 years ago working with nonprofit organizations and orphans in Indonesia, where his profound love for children inspired a deeper mission.
After years of working closely with abused children and orphans, Bruno’s vision evolved. He embarked on extensive research into sustainable support systems, ultimately pioneering an innovative approach in Rosarito, Mexico. His model creates meaningful connections between orphaned children and the surrounding community, establishing mutually beneficial relationships that foster long-term stability and growth for all involved.
Mirella Johana
Marketing Director, Developer
Originally from Finland, Mirella brings her expertise as a digital nomad to the Angels team in North America. With her robust background in project management, marketing communications, and web development, she serves as the digital voice for children in need across various platforms.
Mirella’s technical skills and passion converge in her work to raise awareness for this vital cause, effectively connecting supporters worldwide with opportunities to help create better futures for vulnerable children. Her strategic approach to digital outreach amplifies the impact of Baja Angels’ mission throughout the region and beyond.
Nina L. Zeller
Angels Secretary
Nina has B.S. in Accounting from Western Washington University. She’s a Senior Client Accountant for Cushman & Wakefield handling the full cycle of accounting for client portfolios, including financial reporting, cash management, and reconciliation of accounts. She has more than 35 years experience in Accounting.
Dolores Marquez
Ambassador of Las Gaviotas
Dolores Marquez and her husband Jim reside in the Las Gaviotas community of Rosarito, Baja California. Their journey in this coastal paradise began in 2009 when they built their first home as a vacation retreat. In 2023, they seized the opportunity to acquire another property within the same community, meticulously restoring this unique residence into their dream home where they now live full-time.
After retiring in 2020 following a distinguished 40-year career as a landscape architect, Dolores remains active in her field by serving on the Las Gaviotas Landscape Committee and tending to her personal garden with dedication and expertise. Her passion for community service extends to supporting local charitable causes, including children’s orphanages and women’s shelters. Dolores embraces this new chapter of life by forming meaningful connections within the community while continuing to explore and appreciate the rich culture and natural beauty that Baja California offers.
Sophia Barajas
Social Media Manager
Sophia is a social media strategist specializing in TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. With AI training and constant research, she uses innovative techniques to optimize engagement and marketing, making her a leader in the digital space.
Sonia Hartnell Santana
Ambassador of Ensenada
Sonia has called Ensenada home for the past three years, bringing her professional experience as a California Notary Public and mental health biller to the Baja Angels team. Her dedication to serving vulnerable populations spans over 15 years, having faithfully provided meals to unhoused individuals on Skid Row and in Riverside through her work with The Burrito Project and Create A Bright Life non-profits.
Through her connection with Create A Bright Life, Sonia has extended support to several orphanages in Ensenada over the past five years, building trusted relationships within the local community. Her personal mission to improve the lives of others aligns perfectly with Baja Angels’ vision, making her a valuable bridge between resources and those in need throughout the region.
Manuel Ruiz Hernandez
Qualifying Judge and Trial Lawyer at Ensenada Public Security Department
Manuel studied Criminology at the University of Xochicalco. Later he got his Master’s Degree in Oral Criminal Procedural Law and a General Law Degree.
Currently Manuel is the Qualifying Judge and the acting Trial Lawyer in the public security department of Ensenada, Baja California.
Tim L. Zeller
Ambassador of Calafia
Tim joined the Rosarito community in 2024, relocating from Eastern Washington to be closer to his daughter in San Diego. His professional background includes serving as Site Director for the San Diego Padres’ summer youth baseball program, where he continues to work seasonally.
With over 35 years of experience working with young people as a coach, trainer, and teacher, Tim brings valuable expertise in youth development to the Baja Angels team. His extensive background in mentoring and education aligns perfectly with Baja Angels’ mission, allowing him to make meaningful contributions to the children and communities we serve.
Laurie Soto & Jerry Levy
Ambassadors of Valle de Guadalupe
Laurie Soto and Jerry Levy are the owners of Lago Amor Del Valle in San Antonio de las Minas, Valle de Guadalupe, BC. After retiring from San Diego in 2021, they established their permanent residence in Mexico, where Laurie serves as an Airbnb Superhost and co-winemaker for their estate wine, while Jerry divides his time between their Rosarito condo and Valle property.
The couple is deeply committed to community service, focusing on rescuing street dogs, supporting local charitable initiatives, and assisting the nearby orphanage. They’ve also dedicated their 29′ Jensen sailboat at Coral Marina as a learning lab for young people interested in sailing and maritime skills. Laurie and Jerry are passionate about building connections, enjoying life, and enhancing the quality of life for those around them.
Evnika Marina Medina Romo
MA in Aquaculture & PhD in Life Sciences
My name is Evnika Marina Medina Romo, I am Mexican from the city of Mexicali, B.C., and a resident of Ensenada, B.C. since 1995. I am an oceanologist by profession, with a Master’s degree in aquaculture and a doctorate in life sciences with a specialization in marine biotechnology. I have been dedicated to hydroponics since 2005, when I started as a self-employment activity at my home and began selling my lettuce to individuals.
As I gained experience, I founded my school Jamaak Green School on July 12, 2008, and my production gradually increased. I work as the general director of Jamaak Green School, project consultant, instructor of courses at our school and in coordination with Bofish and Verde Plakarq in distance courses. Additionally, Jamaak Green School has its productive part, Hydroponic Lettuces, where more than 8,000 lettuce pieces are produced per month, which are sold in the form of ready-to-eat salads to 13 local restaurants and in 3 markets.
Jerry Bruning
Farmer, Handyman
I have worked over 20 years in Manufacturing. The last 10 years as a Handyman in the United States and including working at Jamaak Green School as farmer and Handyman.