Spotlight: Ruben Ybarra of the KCA’s Board of Directors

Ruben Ybarra is a member of the KCA’s Board of Directors and currently works at Poseidon Services, Inc. as an Installation Lead and Project Engineer.

We spoke with Ruben about what motivated him to join our Board of Directors.

What motivated you to get involved with the Kidney Cancer Association?
My brother passed away due to kidney cancer in 2015. We were extremely close. Watching his struggle and fight for three and a half years with stage four cancer was a life changing experience. I’d never known he had that much strength within him. He often said my body is gone, but my mind and heart are still with me. Not a day goes by without me thinking about him. When asked if I’d be interested in becoming a board member, I relished the opportunity.

How long have you worked with the KCA?
This is my first year on the board, so I’m a newbie 🙂

What is your favorite travel destination and why?
I practically live in Costa Rica and travel there whenever I can (6-7 times a year). I used to surf rather sparingly. After my brother passed, I realized the time I’m truly most at peace is in the water. Thus, I’m in the water and surfing as much as I can.

What do you like to do in your free time?
Besides surfing, I’ve been a composer since I was in middle school and scored local independent films. That led to wanting to make my own films. I’d always been a 2D artist, but I learned 3D animation about 6 years ago. I’ve been participating in various film festivals making short films. I just recently ventured into 2D animation and it’s been a fun ride so far. Almost everything under the sun interests me.

What is one thing most people do not know about you?
I am a former child actor. Correction… former “failed” child actor!