Selina Barajas is a fourth-generation Tucsonan, a proud graduate of both Sunnyside and Tucson Unified School Districts, the University of Arizona, and holds a Master’s degree in Urban Planning from UCLA. Her professional journey spans over 15 years, focusing on community development initiatives, initially both in Los Angeles and then in her hometown of Tucson.

 

Selina's roots in our community run deep - both her parents and many of her family members are either proud retirees or current employees of the Sunnyside Unified School District (SUSD). That’s why Selina believes that every family in Ward 5 needs safe streets, better parks, and a healthier environment. With her background in urban planning, she’s worked closely with community members and stakeholders to ensure their voices shape the changes they want to see. At Sunnyside Foundation, Selina helped oversee the Community Investment Fund, investing in infrastructure, public spaces, and telling community stories south of 22nd Street.  She has the experience to secure the investments our neighborhoods need for upgraded parks, cleaner water, safer streets, small business resources, and faster, and more reliable transportation - so that Ward 5 families can thrive for generations to come!

 

Selina is a fearless trailblazer and creative entrepreneur, and she will bring that spirit to the City Council. She and her husband are in the process of opening Luna y Sol Cafe, South Tucson’s first-ever coffee shop and open habitat for birds and butterflies, in partnership with the Tucson Bird Alliance (formally known as Tucson Audubon Society) - creating a space for culture, connection, and environmental stewardship.

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She is also the founder of Reinas Who Hike, a Southern Arizona collective dedicated to creating a supportive community for women, especially women of color, and families who share a love for the outdoors and hiking in the Sonoran Desert. Through this work, she has empowered more people to connect with nature, advocate for public lands, and build strong, inclusive communities.
 

Selina's dedication to community service is further exemplified by her involvement in initiatives like the Reina Prom Committee, ​ Reina Prom Giveaway, is an annual event that provides free glamorous prom dresses, accessories, and a full glam squad experience, including professional hair and makeup to high school students who have shown resilience despite life’s obstacles, ensuring they feel confident and celebrated on their special night.
 

When she’s not working or building community, Selina loves spending time with her husband Abraham and their two young daughters, Sofia Luna and Mia Sol, marveling at the vibrant desert sunsets and monsoon rains that the Sonoran Desert offers.

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About Ward 5: 

Selina Barajas is running for an open seat in Ward 5, which includes much of Tucson’s southside. After nearly 16 years of service, longtime Tucson City Councilmember Richard Fimbres is retiring. Selina Barajas is running for this seat, and if elected, she would be the first woman ever chosen by voters to represent Ward 5 on the Tucson City Council.