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Welcome to the Official Website of Elizabeth Hernandez,

Author of Beyond the Broken Gates.

 

Step into a world of resilience, transformation, and hope. Through her powerful collection of short stories in Beyond the Broken Gates,

Elizabeth invites readers on a journey through life’s trials and triumphs. This site serves as your portal to her unique narrative voice—a voice that fearlessly addresses the challenges of growing up in Wilmington, Los Angeles, California, and the triumphs that come from faith, self-discovery, and empowerment.

Here, you’ll find insights into her life, learn more about her inspirational work, and stay updated on upcoming events, book signings, and more.

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 A Voice of Strength, Faith, and Transformation

Elizabeth Hernandez was born and raised in Wilmington, Los Angeles, CA, and is a proud daughter of immigrant parents from Jalisco, Mexico. Growing up in an environment marked by both opportunity and struggle, Elizabeth faced many challenges that would shape her journey into adulthood. Her story is one of resilience and transformation—from overcoming the turbulence of her youth to finding faith and discovering a sense of self-worth she never thought possible.

 

Her experiences as a first-generation Mexican-American navigating the intersections of identity, culture, and family obligations inform much of her work. Elizabeth’s writing speaks to anyone who has felt the pull between two worlds, the desire to overcome adversity, and the power of faith in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.

 

Today, Elizabeth is an advocate for women’s empowerment and mental health awareness, using her story to inspire others to pursue growth, healing, and authenticity.

About Beyond the Broken Gates

Beyond the Broken Gates is a raw and moving collection of short stories that outline Elizabeth's life journey. Through captivating narratives, the book explores growing up in the historic yet challenging streets of Wilmington, CA. Elizabeth’s story is one of struggle and survival—a tale of navigating the complex realities of faith, love, family, and identity. This collection includes vivid portrayals, such as the scandalous life of Sapphire, The Stripper, and Elizabeth’s short-lived romance with her Egyptian lover. Yet the heart of Beyond the Broken Gates lies in its themes of resilience, self-discovery, and transformation.

 

Pregnant, abandoned, and seeking a way out of despair, Elizabeth found hope through faith, leading her on a journey to reclaim her power, pursue education, and ultimately, discover her true self.

 

Beyond the Broken Gates is not only a story of one woman’s life but a testament to the enduring power of faith, forgiveness, and resilience. 

Summer 2025 Events

  • Jun 27, 2025, 4:00 PM – 5:20 PM PDT
    San Pedro Regional Library , 931 S. Gaffey Street San Pedro, CA 90731
    Jun 27, 2025, 4:00 PM – 5:20 PM PDT
    San Pedro Regional Library , 931 S. Gaffey Street San Pedro, CA 90731
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  • Jul 02, 2025, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
    Jul 02, 2025, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
    Storytelling Gathering
    From Wilmington, Los Angeles, CA—join Elizabeth as she shares her unapologetic journey from being a high school dropout & stripper to becoming a woman of faith, a career woman & a doctoral student. This online gathering is about owning your story & finding true resilience through our own narrative.
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  • Jul 12, 2025, 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM PDT
    Wilmington Branch Library , 1300 N Avalon Blvd, Wilmington, CA 90744
    Jul 12, 2025, 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM PDT
    Wilmington Branch Library , 1300 N Avalon Blvd, Wilmington, CA 90744
    Share
  • Jul 16, 2025, 7:00 PM
    Jul 16, 2025, 7:00 PM
    Zoom RSVP link is located below.
    From the stage to the streets of service—join Elizabeth as she shares her unapologetic journey from being a stripper to becoming a woman of faith, a career woman and a doctoral student. This workshop is about owning your story, and the enduring power of faith, forgiveness and resilience.
    Share
  • Jul 26, 2025, 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM PDT
    Wilmington Branch Library , 1300 N Avalon Blvd, Wilmington, CA 90744
    Jul 26, 2025, 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM PDT
    Wilmington Branch Library , 1300 N Avalon Blvd, Wilmington, CA 90744
    Share
  • Jul 30, 2025, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM PDT
    Jul 30, 2025, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM PDT
    Zoom Workshop RSVP link is located below.
    From the Club to the Community—join Elizabeth as she shares her unapologetic journey from being a stripper to becoming a woman of faith, a career woman and a doctoral student. This workshop is about owning your story, and the enduring power of faith, forgiveness and resilience.
    Share

Elizabeth values connecting with readers, fellow writers, and anyone who resonates with her story. Whether you’re interested in discussing Beyond the Broken Gates, inviting Elizabeth to speak at an event, or sharing your own journey of resilience, we’d love to hear from you.

Please reach out through the contact information below or connect with Elizabeth on her social media channels.

  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn

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© 2020 by Elizabeth Hernandez, MPA

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