Mabel came to the U.S. from the Dominican Republic at 10. She graduated from Central Park East High School and is a now at Fordham U studying Computer Science. Mabel taught herself English, to play the piano, to bake, and to code at Urban Arts all while carrying a full school course load. (She makes a stellar vanilla and caramel cake!) Mabel builds games that have explored climate change and mental health during the pandemic using the Unity Engine.
“When I first heard about Urban Arts, I was intrigued because I had never really thought about what goes into making games or that it was possible for a Hispanic woman to go into this field. Here, I learned about the logic and strategy behind making games as well as the process of brainstorming, creating, and publishing.”

Mable was awarded 2022’s prestigious Nagler Scholarship for her perseverance, dedication, and her ability to always take the opportunity to grow. Mabel and her mentor Chad Rocco of Amazon Games, have maintained a long-term mentorship through Urban Arts. “Chad even wrote my recommendation for the Nagler scholarship!”

We welcomed Mabel as a new Assistant Teaching Artist this year. She’s helping to teach our custom curriculum to new high schoolers while earning money at college.