Deidre Pujols

Deidre Pujols is a philanthropist, entrepreneur, and advocate whose work focuses on Down syndrome awareness, human trafficking prevention, and community empowerment. Pujols began her journey in service with AMIGOS in Michoacán, Mexico, an experience that influenced her commitment to advocacy. She became a mother at 21, and her daughter Isabella was diagnosed with Down syndrome shortly after birth. This experience shaped Pujols' dedication to supporting individuals with Down syndrome and their families.

Pujols established the Pujols Family Foundation, which promotes awareness and provides support for children and families living with Down syndrome. The foundation also works to improve the standard of living for people in the Dominican Republic through education, medical relief, and access to essential goods. The Pujols Family Foundation has received the Roberto Clemente Award and organizes more than 100 events annually at no charge to individuals with Down syndrome. As vice president of the foundation, Pujols has participated in international advocacy, including a panel discussion hosted by the Permanent Observer Mission of the Holy See to the United Nations during the Commission on the Status of Women.

Pujols expanded her advocacy by founding Open Gate International, an organization that provides vocational training, life skills, and job placement assistance to survivors of vulnerable life situations, including human trafficking. She also created "Strike Out Slavery," an initiative that raises awareness about modern-day slavery and mobilizes Major League Baseball teams, players, and fans to support anti-trafficking efforts.

Pujols has been invited to the White House to discuss anti-trafficking initiatives and was recognized by the United Nations Women for Peace Association with the Humanitarian Award for her work through "Strike Out Slavery." She has also spoken at the Vatican about her efforts with Open Gate International and "Strike Out Slavery."

In addition to her advocacy, Pujols launched a cookbook and calendar featuring Dominican recipes and created Pujols Kitchen Cookware, a line inspired by Dominican culinary traditions. Through her work in nonprofit leadership, anti-trafficking advocacy, and culinary entrepreneurship, Pujols demonstrates the impact of combining compassion, business, and social change.