Yoela, Site Feasibility Liaison

All about Yoela.

Born in Panama and raised in Costa Rica, Yoela is the youngest of three sisters. She holds a bachelor's degree in nursing with a specialization in the Intensive Care Unit from the Universidad Adventista de Centro America, Costa Rica.

Today, she lives in Orlando, Florida, and at Parexel, she works as a liaison for the U.S., Latin America, and Canada. Her role involves facilitating the initial process to access information about an upcoming or ongoing clinical trial. She ensures sites and principal investigators have followed the proper steps to consider their participation.

From her wide range of interests to her many travels, learn how Yoela’s adventures have taught her to remain determined despite adversity and to hold a deep respect for different cultures.

Reflecting on your work at Parexel, what are you most proud of and why?

When I look back at my journey and how I ended up working in Mexico City, I clearly understand my passion for collaborating with LATAM initiatives related to this incredible country. I dream of the day when my work will bring awareness and drive changes in the regulatory process, close gaps and speed up startup timelines.

What’s an important quality that you have learned about yourself in your time at Parexel?

That my cultural awareness stems from my upbringing as an Afro Latina in Central America and traveling around the world. Growing up, I had the opportunity to meet people from various countries. Thanks to my parents' work as missionaries, I encountered diverse scenarios that taught me to accept, respect and value different backgrounds and the unique perspectives they bring.

What is one way you always keep “Patients First?”

With every task entrusted to me, I pause to consider the community that will be impacted by the results of this work. I also reflect on my time providing bedside care, recalling one patient in particular — their story, their journey to healing, their tears, laughter and words of hope for a better outcome. Put simply, cultural awareness and dedication.

Parexel rolled out our new Behaviors in 2024. Out of the four Behaviors, which speaks to you the most and why?

Through the great adversities of my childhood and early adulthood, I discovered that my attention deficit disorder is actually a gift — my superpower. It grants me the determination needed to move forward in life and achieve greatness. When I joined Parexel, I immediately felt at home. My superpower grew stronger each day, surrounded by excellence and quality at every turn. Each task and deadline challenged me to do my best for our patients..