HumAnes of UCLA: Quenesha Caballero
HumAnes of UCLA: Quenesha Caballero, Senior Quality & Safety Programs Administrator
Where did you grow up? Where did you complete your education and training?
I grew up in South Central Los Angeles, near the fairly new BMO Soccer Stadium, just about five minutes from USC. I graduated from Alexander Hamilton High School’s Music Academy Magnet with a focus in performing arts (acting and singing). I later earned my Associate Degree in Business from West Los Angeles College and completed my Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification through UCLA Extension.
What was your childhood dream job?
As a young child, I dreamed of being on Broadway, singing and acting. I have always been passionate about connecting with people, and the stage felt like such a unique and powerful way of doing so. However, when I became a young mother to a premature son with immunodeficiencies and a blood disease, I knew that healthcare was my true calling. My plan was to become a registered nurse at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles in the Hematology-Oncology unit. I knew every detail back then, as my son and I were regulars at the hospital.
If you could perform any song on the Broadway stage, what would it be?
It would definitely be “Seasons of Love” from Rent!
What is your favorite way to spend a day off?
Movie days at home are my favorite. As a mom of four, my kids and I will stock up on all our movie theater favorites—popcorn, nachos, hot dogs, Sour Patch Kids, and Red Vines—and then vote on a movie to watch together. Time to myself is limited, but time with my kids means everything to me.
What is your favorite TV show or movie, and why?
I’m a huge fan of M. Night Shyamalan and love horror, thriller, and suspense films. My all-time favorite movie is The Sixth Sense. The imagery and deeper meanings in the film keep me on the edge of my seat, no matter how many times I watch it. Even now, I still notice new details, and it gives me chills every single time. I love a movie that feels brand new with every rewatch.
Tell us a little about your family (and any pets).
I am proud to share that my parents are immigrants from Rio Abajo, Panama. They are incredible role models who sacrificed so much for my siblings and me, teaching us that we are not defined by our environment or finances but by our empathetic hearts and brilliant minds.
I am extremely close with my siblings. Life has brought us many trials, losses, and challenges, but through them, we’ve grown stronger and more resilient. Their children—my nieces and nephews—are like my own, and I love them deeply. I also have friends who have become family, and I am so grateful for the love and support of everyone around me.
Most importantly, I am a proud mother of four amazing children: Damion (25), Tommy (20), Talia (15), and Camilla (6). Three of my children are immunocompromised, but all four are the absolute best thing that has ever happened to me. My boys are kind, loving, and helpful, and my girls are warm, sassy, and brilliant. They are my heart and my “why,” the reason I push so hard for us to keep moving forward. And we will win!
We don’t currently have pets, but once we find, purchase, and settle into our forever home, we hope to get a dog—because we’re definitely a dog-loving family!
What are your favorite places in LA to eat out or grab takeout?
I love the small and/or family business with delicious food, and I really love a nice view/ vibe:
- Panamanian Food: My parents sell food once a month (haha, but really)
- Soul food: Flavor Table, Serving Spoon
- Caribbean Food: Wi Jammin, Tracey’s
- Classic American: Mike’s Deli
- Tacos/ Burritos: Ramonas, Not Yo Tacos
- Steak: Steak 48
- Views: Spire 73, 71Above
- Brunch: Catch LA
How would your friends and family describe you?
My best friend since 9th grade, my dear friend/sister (FriendSter), sent me this quote:
“You are the kind of friend everyone hopes to have and feels blessed to know. Caring, thoughtful, and deeply compassionate, you have a heart that overflows with love for your family and friends. You're the absolute life of the party—vibrant, fun, and full of energy....always with a rhyme to spit. You balance that lighthearted spirit with wisdom, grace, and a nurturing soul. A devoted mother and a loyal friend, you always show up, no matter the circumstances, offering your time, support, unwavering encouragement, and prayers. You're generous, uplifting, and selfless, constantly looking for ways to enrich the lives of those around you. Your genuine spirit brings comfort, joy, and inspiration wherever you go. Resilient, radiant, dependable, and endlessly kind, you're a true treasure whose presence makes every space brighter and every heart lighter. And I just love my FriendSter to pieces!!!!”
Here is a quote from my niece (age 27) and UCLA colleague:
“I would describe you as a selfless and kindhearted person, someone who is loving, nurturing, and incredibly intelligent.”
And a quote from another dear friend since 9th grade—we were prom king and queen:
“Quan is supportive, dependable, a kind and loving individual who is a jewel and asset to have. We look to her when times get hard or rough, and she always figures it out and gets it done. Her biggest gift is her ability to handle/solve problems without getting flustered. We are very blessed and grateful to have her in our lives.”
Finally, a quote from my younger sister:
“She is the most resilient person that I know! Time and time again, she has proven that she is that girl, and it’s unstoppable. She has supported me through all of my endeavors, and I am grateful for her. Auntie of the year award from her #1 niece Legacy!!!”