Josué Martinez Razo is a Mexican-American community advocate whose story reflects a deep inquiry into work, stress, and what it means to live a fulfilling life. Before coming to Oregon, he spent years working indoors as a dentist in Mexico, carrying the pressure and exhaustion of a demanding professional life. After COVID disrupted that path, he began agricultural field work in Oregon and discovered that being outdoors brought him a stronger sense of balance and peace. He describes the rhythm of farming, with physical movement and fresh air, as deeply grounding, saying it helped quiet years of stress and allowed him to settle more peacefully into himself.

Josué speaks with unusual calmness and attentiveness, often returning to the importance of simply being present with people. During our interview, he reflected on how meaningful it feels to genuinely connect in a world where many people seem overwhelmed and emotionally checked out. He is especially drawn toward helping people who have been misunderstood or overlooked, explaining that he relates strongly to those who are not fully understood by their broader community.

Nature has become central to Josué’s daily rhythm and emotional balance. Long walks, bike rides through Ashland, and time near the water are not hobbies so much as grounding practices that help him slow down and think clearly. His understanding of “home” reflects that simplicity: “—any place that makes me feel warmth in my soul.” Josué is a kind, hardworking, humble man, with a growing desire to better understand both life and his own purpose in it.

At the center of Josué’s story is someone trying to build a quieter and more meaningful life through connection, routine, and service to others. He hopes participating in The Home Project helps people from different cultures connect more honestly and encourages greater compassion for one another.