Our Story

Two first generation Latina sisters with different career paths unite to bring Smokin' Green Apron alive!

Growing up in a Mexican household the kitchen was a place everyone came together. Some of the Estrada sister's greatest memories involve a variety of traditional Mexican foods, laughter, and unity. Their mother and aunts made every meal with love and cooked the spiciest homemade salsas. The roasted chili peppers smoked their entire house! They used a kitchen towel to turn off the fire alarm. A SMOKIN' house meant the meal was going to be delicious!! They had a "GREEN thumb" (or APRON) but for cooking. 

Their previous work within diverse communities serves as a key component to this organization. Marysol Estrada (she/her/ella) is in her last year of graduate school in a Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. She also has a background in counseling individuals who have experienced trauma, advocating for social justice, and providing crisis trauma services. Jeanette Estrada (she/her/ella) managed an education program where she advocated for students throughout the Chicago metropolitan area. She also has a background in working with diverse families, coordinating events, as well as working in communities using the Asset-based community development (ABCD) approach. The combination of skills, networks, and experience these two professionals possess enhances every event/service provided by Smokin' Green Apron. All events will leave you feeling positive, clear-minded, and relaxed.