Zamudio looking to further serve community

Second in a series on the candidates in the Nov. 5 Shafter City Council election. Other profiles can be seen on TheShafterPress.com.

A lot of Shafter residents are probably already familiar with the name Rafael Zamudio. Zamudio has spent over two decades serving the community, as a coach for youth sports, as a fundraiser for different events, and as a participant in other community events.

Zamudio was raised in Shafter, says he has always had a deep-seated love for the community and its people. From a young age, Rafael was known for his boundless curiosity and eagerness to engage his peers, learn from parents, his teachers and community role models that would later help guide his career – he's an oilfields rig welder – and passion to help others.

"I started helping others in 2009 with the Big Dog Family, a group of friends dedicated to giving back. Over 15 years, we have provided holiday food baskets to over 150 families and given 1,100 toys to kids at Christmas. I have also supported families with medical expenses without expecting repayment."

The Shafter High graduate said that his volunteer work, coaching and fundraising have strengthened community bonds in the city, positioning him well to foster clarity and growth as a Council member. He said his business insight and bilingual skills (English/Spanish) will enhance community participation. He aims to promote transparency through updates, encourage attendance at council meetings and support initiatives that help youth develop both current and new skills, including trades, according to Zamudi

When not engaged in community activities, Rafael loves spending time with his family and friends, exploring new ways to barbeque, participating in cook-offs and being active in a variety of sports. He treasures every moment spent with his mother, who has been a constant source of inspiration, nurturing his sense of culture and leadership skills. With his wife, Nidia, son Rafael and daughter Mitzy always by his side, Rafael strives to inspire them to be compassionate and proactive members of the community by leading through example.

Rafael said that he is not just a community leader; he is a passionate individual with a zest for life. His hobbies reflect his vibrant personality, whether it's perfecting the art of grilling, engaging in sport activities or simply enjoying a hearty laugh with loved ones, Rafael tries tpo embody a life well-lived and shared with others. His dedication to his family and his community paints a picture of a man who is as committed to personal joy as he is to public service, he says.

Zamudio believes that the council needs to foster transparency by sharing updates that affect our community. He also said that they should seek out ways to boost community participation in the city council meetings.

"I envision our city cooperating with other local and state agencies to deliver resources that will improve health and equity for all Shafter residents," he said.