Cristina founded the Translatina Network back in 2007, to organize and empower the transgender immigrant community through leadership development and education. Over the years, she has served on countless panels, committees, and boards to provide expertise on effective HIV prevention and community organizing. Cristina has been presented with awards and recognition by the New York City Council and Department of Health, the Queens (NY) Borough President, the AIDS Institute, and many organizations.

Cristina was formerly the Trans Program Coordinator at the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Community Center (The Center) in New York City, where she worked for 11 years. She oversaw a workforce development program specifically designed to meet the needs of the TGNC community. She has been working in the field of HIV prevention, advocacy, and community organizing for almost 20 years.