Hugo Armando Barrientos Sr.

We do not choose the life we are given, but we hope to be welcomed into the world with open arms and love from those who will always be there for us. For some, being loved by a family from the start is a miracle. Yet, many experience a childhood filled with emptiness, lacking the love and support from both parents. A child’s spirit thrives when they have parents who believe in them, guide them through challenges, and pave a positive path for their future.

Hugo Armando Barrientos Sr. was born in the highlands of South America, the birthplace of the Inca. He began life with his mother, but was later sent to live with his father, far from his mother’s home. Sadly, he did not find comfort or support there. Hugo lived with his aunt and her husband, while his father’s family—his wife and their three biological children—lived nearby. Even with his half-sister from another mother, who shared the same father, Hugo’s life was one of mere existence, lacking love and support. His aunt's treatment often made him feel unworthy.

Determined to change his life, Hugo enrolled in military school as a young adolescent. There, he found a sense of belonging, discipline, and camaraderie. He shared stories of lining up with fellow cadets, engaging in supervised fights, and marching with his rifle. This military experience helped him build resilience and pursue his dreams.

Years later, Hugo set sail for the United States to realize those dreams. He had provided a home for his mother and half-sister before leaving and arrived in San Francisco with no regrets. Crossing the bridge to the East Bay, he settled in Berkeley, where he met the person who would be his lifelong partner and the love of his life.

The Barrientos family started from humble beginnings. They eventually settled in a housing project in Alameda County. Hugo and his partner Elsa raised two young boys, and their first dining table was made of concrete blocks and wood planks. Determined to build a better life, Hugo surprised Elsa by beginning the search for their own home. Despite the challenges, they bought a house in Richmond, CA. Soon after, Hugo quit his job at a grocery store and pursued a degree in accounting at Golden Gate University, studying in English, which he spoke imperfectly, while working and raising his family. Defying all odds, he earned his degree and worked his way up to management in a nonprofit and in the process was blessed with his baby girl, completing a family of five.

Never satisfied, Hugo decided to leave the private sector to become independent, sharing his knowledge to uplift individuals and small businesses. He lived his remaining years as a devoted husband, father of three, and trusted advisor. He helped many grow their businesses, advised on taxation, and had a positive impact on his clients' financial lives. He passed away at 80, still active, you could find him jogging with a sweatband and towel around his neck.

Hugo’s journey from hardship to achievement is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. The path of a rising underdog is unique, with low points and high achievements, but it is the transformation of adversity into motivation and purpose that inspires others. Those who struggle can find hope through another’s example, following a positive path to become the best they can be. This is the power of the Rising Underdog Project.