Celebrating Gig Worker Resilience: Debbie’s Story

This past Saturday, September 13, Ualett proudly renewed its partnership with Las Vegas Lights FC during a thrilling match against Miami FC, a hard-fought game that ended in a well-earned draw. More than just soccer, the night was a vibrant celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month and the gig workers who keep Las Vegas moving.

At the heart of it all was Debbie Castillo, a Ualett client whose recognition at halftime became one of the night’s most powerful moments. Her story embodies the strength, adaptability, and determination of the independent workers Ualett was built to serve.

Debbie’s Story: A Gig Worker’s Journey

When Debbie stepped onto the field as the crowd cheered her name, she carried with her the story of so many gig workers in Las Vegas. Over the years, she’s worked in restaurants, theaters, and event venues in the hospitality industry, taken on commercial cleaning contracts, and today she thrives as a rideshare driver.

Her path hasn’t been linear, and that’s what makes it remarkable. Debbie has reinvented herself again and again, adapting to change with resilience and pride. Like countless independent workers, she has faced unpredictable income and uncertainty, but she’s always found a way through.

Like many gig workers, I’ve had to adapt and keep moving forward. It’s not always easy to find financial products that are built for me, but with Ualett, I feel like someone actually understands what my needs are as a gig worker. Being recognized tonight reminds me that our work matters and is critical for the Las Vegas economy and beyond.

— Debbie Castillo, Ualett client and Las Vegas resident

For Debbie, Ualett has been more than a financial tool; it’s been a safety net and a partner in her journey.

With Ualett, I have absolute peace of mind that if I ever ran into a bad situation where my car broke down, where it needed to be serviced, and I didn’t have the funds to do it, I am happy to say that I can count on Ualett to help me out with that situation.

— Debbie Castillo

Debbie’s story represents what Ualett stands for: empowering independent workers to move forward, no matter the challenge.

Ualett x LVFC: A Partnership for Independent Workers

During the celebration, Ualett CEO and Co-Founder Ricky Michel Presbot and Chief Revenue Officer Jay Millard joined Las Vegas Lights FC Owner José Bautista and CEO Shawn McIntosh on the field for the official renewal ceremony, marking the continuation of our partnership through the 2026 season.

As someone who has lived the immigrant journey myself, I know how important it is to have companies that truly understand our communities. Ualett’s work goes beyond financial tools; it’s about dignity, trust, and empowerment for people who are often overlooked. Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with Ualett and the Lights is a way to honor the resilience of workers like Debbie and so many others who make this city thrive.

— José Bautista, Owner of Las Vegas Lights FC

Our partnership is rooted in the same values that Debbie embodies: resilience, inclusion, and pride. Like her, many of the workers we serve cross industries and navigate challenges traditional financial systems often overlook. Ualett is here to change that, offering fast, flexible cash advances built for their realities.

The Heart of the Gig Economy

Debbie’s journey is more than just her own, it’s a reflection of the resilience and adaptability shared by gig workers everywhere. By telling her story, we’re not only celebrating one client, but shining a light on an entire community whose work fuels Las Vegas and cities across the country.

At Ualett, we remain committed to giving these workers the recognition and financial tools they deserve, because their resilience doesn’t just move economies forward, it inspires us all.