Joel Vega

Joel Vega was born and raised in Zacatecas, Mexico. At a young age, he moved to the Coachella valley and graduated from Desert Hot Springs High School in 2011. With his love for wildlife, nature, and helping others, he worked at The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens where he earned recognition as a gold star employee for going above and beyond and spreading the message of Conservation through Preservation and Education, especially for endangered species around the world.

Now while being part of Beyond Study, a research study working hard on creating a better treatment for those living with HIV/AIDS, Joel keeps tourism alive in Palm Springs by renting bikes/e-bikes at Bike Palm Springs Rentals & Tours in partnership with The Palm Springs Historical Society. Gaining a diverse background in Guest Services, Animal Husbandry, and Audio Visuals/Events, he has joined the team at The Center to bring awareness, inclusion, and a safe and welcoming environment to the LGBTQ+ communities of the Coachella valley. In his free time, you can find Joel hiking many of the trails Palm Springs has to offer, or at home with his doggo (Toby) howling at full moons.