You may know me as Ayensa I. Millan, CEO,Managing Attorney, Cima Law Group.But what you don’t know is that the journey to get me there has been anything but easy. This is my story:
I was born in Caborca, Sonora and raised by my maternal grandparents in Puerto Peñasco, Sonora. I lived a border life going back and forth between Mexico and the U.S during the formative years of my life. Ultimately, my mother made the difficult decision to leave me in the care of my grandparents as she established herself and searched for a better life in the U.S. going years at a time without being able to see me.
At the age of 16, I was able to come to the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident and have resided in Phoenix, AZ ever since. During my last year of high school, I managed to graduate at the top of my class and received a full ride to ASU where I graduated with dual degrees in Political Science and Psychology. After graduation, I worked for the Democratic National Committee (DNC) in the State of Arizona. During my time with the DNC, I had the opportunity to witness history and helped the first African American President be elected as President of the United States. However, I knew my path was elsewhere and I returned to school to pursue a law degree at the ASU Sandra Day O’Connor School of Law.
Against the advice of mentors, and with less than a year of practice, I decided that I wanted to be my own boss. In April of 2013, I formed my very own law firm, Cima Law Group, and have never looked back. The firm specializes in immigration, personal injury, and criminal defense. Since then, the firm has grown steadily and has grown to be one of the best-known boutique local firms in the valley.
Having the flexibility to create my own schedule has allowed me to serve as chair of many local organizations, and even serve as a Pro-Tem Justice of the Peace in Maricopa County. Currently, I am the Chair of the Arizona’s Children’s Action Alliance and the Chair of the Education/Community Committee for the Arizona Diamondbacks’ Hispanic Ambassadors Council.
I am here because of my family; and despite the challenges of being an immigrant, a minority, and above all, a woman, I am grateful for the opportunities this country has given me.
2.- Who has Influenced your life the most?
My grandfather. He taught me to be fierce, independent, determined, and resilient. He instilled in me the importance of an education and hard work. He knew that I would be faced with many challenges growing up but reminded me that it meant I had to work harder and the only one that could stop me, was myself. I remind myself of that every day.
3.- What are your proudest achievements?
Graduating law school and having the courage to believe in myself to quit my job and start my own business.
4.- Who Inspires you?
My grandparents. Their love for us and each other. Their amazing stories of hardship and resilience.
5.- What advice would you give someone pursuing a career in what you do?
Prepare and prepare early. In the process, do not forget to take care of yourself and your own health. Remember that if you do things for the right reasons, you will succeed and find peace.
6.- What makes an inspiring woman?
A woman that is confident and has the courage to command a room, especially when she is the only woman in it. But most importantly, a woman who is kind and creates opportunities for others.
Tell us five things no one knows about you?
I ran my first half marathon the same week I took the bar exam.
I was removed from the United States at the age of 13 and when I was able to return to the United States, I became an immigration attorney.
I have sued the government twice for violation of my constitutional rights. And won both cases.
During my first few years of practice, court staff would automatically assume I was the interpreter.
When I resign my job to open my own law firm, I didn’t have enough money in my bank account to even pay for my bills for one month.
My family is one of the first founding families of Puerto Peñasco,Sonora.
Inspírame Mujer is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know.
