A Binational Family Rooted in Tijuana and San Diego
You do not run into a special family like the Bustamante family every day. Originally from Tijuana, Carlos Bustamante, the Tijuana Mayor, along with his children Carolina, Emaluisa, Carlos, and extended family, have formed their lives in this vibrant binational region of Tijuana and San Diego.
Proud to be from Tijuana, they have a deep passion for the city, which embraces a diverse population from Mexico and rises above obstacles, shining in the process. “Tijuana is perseverant, triumphant, and has much to offer,” Emaluisa and Veronica tell Giving Back Magazine.
A Commitment to Education
Education is of utmost importance to the Bustamante family. Carlos Bustamante, the mayor, was the first generation in his family to graduate from the University of San Diego with a Business Administration Degree. His children, Carlos and Carolina, followed in his footsteps, and this year, his granddaughter Alexa also graduated from USD.
Emaluisa studied at the University Iberoamericana of Tijuana, Boston College, and the University of Monterrey, receiving a Communications and Marketing Degree. Veronica, the wife of Carlos Bustamante’s son, graduated from Cetys University of Tijuana.
Philanthropy at the Heart of Their Mission
Philanthropy is an essential part of their lives. Always focused on helping the community, Mayor Carlos Bustamante is recognized as one of the most philanthropic mayors, supporting many non-profit organizations.
Among them is the Emma Anchondo de Bustamante School, and he supports his daughter’s causes: Together for Charity, founded by Carolina, Emaluisa, Veronica, Maribel, Esthela, Rebeca, and Carla, which helps a Tijuana orphanage with 50 children, the Integral Center for Women, the National System for Integral Family Development, and Doctor Smiles, granting wishes for sick children in Tijuana.
A Family United by Love and Community
As a family, they enjoy spending time together, going out to eat, and watching Xolos and Chargers games.
Carolina comments, “Our father is not really a politician. He inherited from his parents a strong love for Tijuana. He is a citizen and businessperson who is committed to having Tijuana continue to move forward. He is a father and a giving grandfather who always makes us feel we are the most important thing to him.”