Malea Orozco
Experience success manager for 3T Group – Cre8iv Crew and Evergreen Lens Media
Age: 29
Location: Windsor
Tell us about yourself, your history and how you came to be where you are now.
I’ve always been fascinated by events and how they make people feel, the intention behind them and how they’re brought to life. Coming from a small town where events were rare, I cherished those moments and the way they brought people together, ultimately sparking my passion for creating meaningful experiences. Ten years ago, I moved to Northern Colorado and earned my degree from UNC at age 20. Entering the professional world young came with challenges, but it fueled my determination to gain experience and knowledge. Personal loss shaped my outlook, deepening my values around connection and the importance of family and community.
Explain your career, achievements and professional highlights.
As the experience success manager at 3T Group, I oversee client relationships and front-facing operations and manage a network of over 100 independent contractors. With Cre8iv Crew and Evergreen Lens Media, I create engaging and memorable experiences through event staffing, promotional activations, photography and videography. Some achievements include a keynote speaking engagement for NOCO Women in Business and hosting a Partner Preview event, where 3T Group showcased its capabilities in the event space. I also have a passion for photography and run a small side business, MO’s Photos, where I focus on capturing authentic moments.
In what ways do you give back to the community?
I serve on the board of directors as secretary for Walk Our Way, a nonprofit that empowers youth while bringing awareness to human trafficking and the sexual exploitation of children. We have initiatives throughout the year focusing on how we can help youth and families in Northern Colorado while bringing awareness to such a difficult topic. I’m also involved in my church, where I serve on the worship team and the greeting team and participate in women’s ministry. I enjoy being a part of important causes through community events and have participated in multiple runs supporting cancer awareness, mental health and local nonprofits.
What do you consider your biggest accomplishment or challenge you’ve overcome, either professionally or personally?
Professionally, my biggest accomplishment was leading my first keynote speaking engagement. Sharing my journey challenged me to overcome self-doubt and realize the value of my experience and perspective. Personally, my greatest accomplishment has been growing in my faith and becoming someone I am proud of. After the loss of a parent, my perspective on life shifted. Faith became my foundation, helping me heal, grow and become a more intentional, grounded version of myself.
Where do you see yourself in five years? In 10 years?
I see myself continuing to grow in my role at 3T Group while supporting the staffing and event industry. I love what I do and am grateful to feel fulfilled in my work. I hope to help build a community that supports and uplifts others, encourages collaboration and promotes people in rooms they are not in. I also hope to mentor those starting their careers in events and share the knowledge I’ve gained along the way.
What piece(s) of advice would you give to your younger self?
The unknown can feel scary, but you are exactly where you’re meant to be. You will face challenges along the way, but each one is shaping you and leading you toward your purpose. Trust that there is a bigger plan at work. Follow your faith, listen to that quiet guidance within you and move forward without fear. Take the risks, embrace the lessons and learn to enjoy the journey instead of rushing through it.
Tell us something unique about you.
I love music and the way it brings people together. I play piano and guitar, enjoy singing and dabble in songwriting. I’m grateful to continue that passion through my church worship team each month. I’m also a collector of Native American jewelry. My grandmothers passed down Navajo pieces, and my great-grandfather was a Navajo chief. Their appreciation for artistry inspired me to collect unique pieces and learn the history and stories behind each one.
Why are you passionate about bringing awareness to human trafficking?
It happens all around us every day, yet many people choose to ignore it or believe it could never happen in their community. The reality is that victims are often hidden in plain sight, and someone could be silently asking for help without us recognizing the signs. Education is powerful, as it equips people with the knowledge to identify red flags, respond appropriately and save lives. By raising awareness, we can create informed, vigilant communities that are prepared to take action and support those who may be experiencing exploitation and abuse.
What advice do you have for those who are anxious about public speaking or being in the spotlight?
Remember that most people in the audience are looking for guidance or a new perspective, just like you have at some point. When you view speaking as an opportunity to provide value rather than perform, the pressure decreases. It isn’t about being perfect or having all the right words; it’s about sharing information, knowledge and experiences that could help someone else. Someone in that audience might need to hear exactly what you have to say.
