Paving The Way For Latinas in Software Engineering With Catalina Laverde
Catalina Laverde is a 27-year-old Senior Software Engineer at Spotify. Originally from Bogotá, Colombia, Catalina moved to the United States in 2010 in pursuit of the American dream. Before transitioning into a career in software engineering, Catalina’s biggest role model has always been her mother whom has helped shape her journey. Observing her mother relentlessly working everyday of the week, this Leading Latina learned the value of hard work, education, and discipline at a young age. “This has shaped almost every aspect of my life. I don’t come from the traditional tech background… one month before my high school graduation I decided to pursue engineering out of the blue,” said Catalina. She enjoys discussing her story to create awareness for women in technology. I tell my story quite often to let women and minorities know that you don’t need to be playing with computers your entire life to have a successful career in technology. Upon completion of her Computer Science degree at Rutgers University, Catalina joined Spotify in New York City as one of their first female Software Engineers in the U.S. Catalina walked into her first engineering job with a feeling of loneliness when she noticed the lack of representation in her work place. As a recent college graduate, everyone else around her had at least 5 years of experience. Although the realization of being the only girl and Latina on the team accumulated overtime, it still felt isolating for Catalina. “I overcame the challenge by first learning to be comfortable being uncomfortable, seeing it as an opportunity instead of a disadvantage and by creating a community for my culture the moment I had the chance,” stated Catalina. This Leading Latina was able to accept her feelings of reclusion, and found a way to open the doors for many other Latinos to feel represented as well. Catalina Laverde learned how to speak up for herself when she had noticed other Latinas experiencing the same levels of lack of representation, stating, “I started attending women in tech events and I realized I wasn’t alone in this. That’s the power of storytelling, that is why it is important to share our stories.” During her tenure, she has worked on designing, building and scaling the ad platform infrastructure, project managed Spotify’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) compliance efforts to protect listeners’ personal data and helped build marketing systems that power Spotify’s user conversion. Her most recent efforts include improving the recommendation experience on the Home screen of the Spotify app and consolidating its delivery for both free and premium users. Alongside her engineering endeavors, she pioneered Spotify’s Latinx Employee Resource Group, looking to create a sense of belonging within the company. Through external events and diverse conferences, Catalina is helping to ensure a more inclusive recruiting pipeline in the field. It was Catalina’s passion for diversity, inclusion, and empowering women that prompted her to pioneer Spotify’s first Employee Resource Groups (“ERG”) in 2015, creating a safe space for discussion and a sense of belonging among underrepresented minorities in the tech industry. The ERG initiative was adopted companywide and she currently co-leads Spotify’s Latinx ERG with over 100 members worldwide. There have been many great accomplishments with the Latinx ERG Initiative. One of Catalina’s biggest wins was ensuring that every Latinx hire develops a sense of belonging in the company. She’s proud and delighted of the infrastructure everyone has in place to make sure no latinx newcomer feels that lack of belonging similar to her experience in the beginning of her career. “This all wouldn’t be possible without our ERG and incredibly engaged community,” said Catalina. As a response to the United States’ political climate, Catalina also co-founded Civic Action Network in 2017, a nonpartisan civic engagement platform looking to bridge the gap between Congress and constituents. CAN, which is fully available in Spanish in addition to English, summarizes federal legislation, allows users to vote and contacts elected officials on their behalf. CAN currently calls 96% of Congressional offices in all 50 states. This year as a Leading Latina of 2019, Catalina discusses the importance of female empowerment as we continue to support our latin community and make an impact. “Female empowerment is about removing societal constraints placed on women and allowing them to pursue their own individual dreams on equal ground,” explained Catalina. By sharing our bicultural experiences with other Latinos, we continue to empower others to do the same. Sharing our experiences is really the only way to generate inclusiveness, open hearts, and expand minds. Catalina’s advice for Latinas aspiring to become leading women in technology is to absolutely make your path in the field! There is a place for everyone in software engineering. “Pursuing engineering as a Latina has given me more than problems to solve, it has filled me with pride and a new sense of social responsibility towards my gender and my community,” said Catalina. Being bilingual as well as bicultural has helped this leading latina embrace who she is in ways she would have never expected. As an immigrant, she has spent a great deal of time trying to bridge the gap between her two cultures, Colombia’s commitment towards family and community, and the United States’ individual, ambitious mindset. “I’ve realized that wearing my heritage as a badge of honor serves a higher purpose. Consider joining the movement and let’s pave the road for future latinas in tech,” expressed Catalina. When Catalina isn’t hard at work, she enjoys traveling which keeps her centered and humble when engaging with different cultures. Catalina also enjoys exercising to energize her days, and reading Psychology books. Dancing keeps her connected to her culture which fills her heart with joy. Connect with by Catalina Instagram: @catalinaonpoint Facebook: Facebook.com/catalinaonpoint Twitter: @Catalinaonpoint Website: www.catalinaonpoint.com
Elevating Minority and Veteran Owned Small Businesses With ‘We Keep Thinking’ Founder Cecilia Burgos
Cecilia Burgos is a leading latina of many talents. Born in Honduras and raised in New Jersey, Cecilia Burgos’ passion for food and the community has played a significant role in her journey. After graduating high school, Ceci pursued a career in the United States Navy where she served as a photographer, documenting missions in iraq for eight years while performing other duties on base. Upon completing her military service, Burgos began a career in marketing, running campaigns for airlines, sports teams, and elite athletes. After almost a decade in marketing, Ceci, being a creative problem-solver by nature, realized her desire to expand her scope and branch out into public relations and creative services. While attending New York University, a course on community and culture awakened a new passion for Cecilia. Promoting lesser-known cuisines in the Latin culture would forge her new path into a world where food has the unique ability to unite a diverse group of people. In 2018, Cecilia launched We Keep Thinking, a full-service creative agency conceived to elevate minority and veteran owned small businesses. While her client list is mostly based in the Bronx, this Leading Latina continues her effort to gain greater media representation and awareness to the troves of culture located in New York City’s outer boroughs. Cecilia’s passion for helping marginalized people succeed is demonstrated through her hard work and commitment in the community. In the short time We Keep Thinking has been in business, Cecilia has elevated her clients’ just-opened and mainstay businesses with English and Spanish language features in The New York Times, NBC’s New York Live, Thrillist, Eater, Cosmopolitan, Esquire, Telemundo, Univision as well as many other national and international outlets. Another one of Cecilia’s proudest achievements was being named a Trailblazing Latina by Forbes Magazine for the work she has done for Latino-owned small businesses. As a Leading Latina of 2019, Cecilia hopes to bring attention to the lack of representation the media has for the Latina community. “Only 3% of media coverage is on Latinos and I’m here to change that,” stated Cecilia. As a Latina entrepreneur, Cecilia’s advice to other Latinas hoping to become their own boss one day would be to network as much as you can! While networking can be intimidating for most at first, she admits that it has opened up many doors for her own business. “You’ll be surprised at how many people are willing to lend a helping hand,” expressed Cecilia. Cecilia cites her mother as her inspiration in life stating, “she came here with nothing and managed to raise three kids, in a country where she did not know the language, she faced so many obstacles but she overcame them. All this while working a low paying job.” During her spare time, she enjoys traveling and photography. To learn more about Cecilia Burgos’ creative agency visit her website below http://www.wktnyc.com
Exploring Cultural Heritage in Fashion with Encargos y Envios Founder Joshe Ordonez
Joshe Ordonez is an Entrepreneur and Creative Strategist with expertise in fashion and culture. She focuses on the combination of cultural heritage and contemporary art and design in order to preserve and promote techniques and practices from ethnic minority communities. Born and raised in Cuenca, Ecuador, Joshed Ordonez found inspiration in her family where she was able to absorb her passion for fashion, social impact through creating and building, as well as kindness. Today, Joshe’s passion continues to grow through new and inspirational connections. Now that my sister and brother are grown-ups they became a constant source of inspiration for their strength and motivation. Before incorporating her passion for fashion into her own entrepreneurial journey and career, Joshe faced some challenges in the process. “The hardest thing for me has been trying to get people to listen. With so much noise in the world, it is hard to have a voice,” stated Joshe. To overcome those obstacles, this inspiring Leading Latina continues to focus on building her confidence as well as demonstrating that fear will not keep her from speaking up or becoming the successful businesswoman she aspires to work towards everyday. Her work today, now manifests in a variety of mediums including photography, video, design projects, garments, visual arts, workshops, and symposia. Her work has been published in local and international magazines, newspapers and blogs. Ordonez has won several awards and recognitions such as XPOTEX, A National Fashion Design Competition in Ecuador for two consecutive years. One of Joshe’s proudest works is her thesis, Ikat – Ancient Technique, prior to receiving her degree in Fashion Design, which took a lot of research and practical work to complete. During her thesis, Joshe traveled to an artisan community far from where she lived in Ecuador. She enjoyed the approach of the project where both the artisan and herself used one another’s skills to fulfill their own capabilities in co-creating something magical. “I learned a lot about my culture and the importance of ancient techniques in the story and development of a nation. This experience has shaped my approach to creative collaborations and leadership,” expressed Joshe. In 2017 Ordonez was invited to the United Nations as a panel during the 55th Commission for Social Development to talk about sustainable and social development in the fashion Industry. Joshe cited this opportunity as being that moment where she was finally heard. She was able to express the importance of cultural heritage in fashion, and how artisans have the wisdom to create techniques or materials which can help the fashion industry become less damaging to the environment.These processes can still generate income for emerging communities. Joshe also explored some myths about sustainable fashion and the steps we can take to reduce our footprint, such as buying less and becoming educated consumers. When I had the opportunity to speak at the United Nations Panel I felt that finally I have a voice and people are taking my ideas and opinions seriously. I felt that the hard work was worth it. Ordonez is a graduate of the Design Management Master program at Pratt Institute (2018) and received grants to execute her projects from Pratt in 2016 and 2017. One of those projects is Loop Fairtrade, a digital platform that connects Ecuadorian artisans with global designers to co-create ethical products. In 2018, Ordonez launched the first Toquilla Straw workshop ever made in the U.S.A and was part of the Tek-Tiles Team, a project of the BFDA that focused on integrating technology into smart garments and functional textiles. This year as one of our nominated Leading Latinas of 2019, Joshe’s biggest advice to aspiring Latina entrepreneurs is to take risks. “Try to fight your fears and go for what you want, your dreams won’t fall from the sky, you have to work for them,” expressed Joshe. After all, in her best words, nothing great has ever happened without risks. Her goal for this year’s campaign is to bring more talented Latinas into the network and encourage everyone to support each other in their collaborations. I am really excited about encouraging Latinos and Ecuadorians to be proud of their roots, we have a lot of great things to be inspired about. Currently, she is the Founder and CEO of Encargos y Envios, a peer to peer international delivery platform that helps travelers earn extra income by delivering products to shoppers abroad. When Joshe is not hard at work, she loves to read success stories about Latinos and Latinas. She believes in the importance of staying inspired, and keeping the momentum strong. To read more about Joshe Ordonez’ work, visit her personal and professional website below: https://www.josheordonez.com/ https://www.encargosyenvios.com/
Helping Women Find Fulfillment and Happiness with Viva La Forty Founder Omayra Jimenez
Omayra Perez-Jimenez is a woman of the people, always looking to inspire positive change in others. Her career demonstrates the immense compassion this Leading Latina holds in her heart for helping others. At the age of 19 years old, Omayra returned to the United States after spending most of her childhood in Puerto Rico. Although the language barrier was a challenge, she was determined to achieve a better future for herself and it was her strong desire to rise above every obstacle that gave her courage. Omayra studied at Katherine Gibbs School and later attained an English degree from Hunter College. In 2016, Omayra founded the digital platform VIVA LA FORTY with the purpose of inspiring and empowering women 40 years and older. She works with organizations that support women who have been victims of domestic violence and holds workshops on motivation, growth and entrepreneurship. Through her work with VIVA LA FORTY, Omayra’s main objective is to keep inspiring change and generate positivity in the lives of women. Sharing her story with others allows her to show it is possible to overcome ones traumas and live a truly fulfilled life. Age is nothing but a number, and should in no way impede your aspirations. Aside from supporting the women in her community through her digital platform, Omayra also works as a professional translator at a prestigious law firm in New York City. She is able to continue her journey in helping others by using her bilingual expertise to assist minorities, and also does pro bono work to help immigrants feel safe navigating the complex legal system. Omayra is currently in progress of obtaining international certification in Professional Transformational Coaching. This journey will give this Leading Latina the opportunity to one day become a life coach as well as a motivational speaker. She will continue to empower women in need of support while pursuing their goals and finding purpose in their lives. As a Leading Latina of 2019, Omayra Perez-Jimenez is ready to connect and collaborate with other women in our community also looking to inspire others with their stories of perseverance, and determination. She has two beautiful daughters who have been her strongest source of encouragement. Omayra cites her mother as her biggest inspiration and hero as well. Omayra Jimenez’ vision is clear: to better herself, put her teachings into action, and motivate others to join her journey. She values authenticity, humbleness, all while showing that no matter what the circumstances may be in your life, you have the power to achieve all of your dreams. As long as you live in relentless pursuit of them, the universe will reward you with a positive outcome. Omayra Jimenez wants women who have been victims of domestic abuse to be able to face their fears every day, and overcome their obstacles. The most beautiful and rewarding thing is to use our talents to help others. That is where genuine happiness dwells. Connect with Omayra @vivalaforty
Bring Passion and Storytelling to your Entrepreneurial Journey with OneKIN Inc. Co-founder Jennifer Gomez
When Jennifer Gomez embarked on her career as an entrepreneur, no one mentioned the whirlwind of emotional and mental unpredictability this path would hold. “The highs are very high, and the lows are super low. You feel everything in extremes but it is worth every bit.” Although there were moments of self-doubt, this Leading Latina faced her obstacles with a positive attitude. Born and raised a proud Dominican American woman from Brooklyn, NY, Gomez discovered her passion for creative storytelling which would become an integral focus of her career. Descending from a background of poets and narrators, it’s the rich history of her family’s past that contributes to the many inspiring experiences she’s had in her personal and professional life. Gomez’ mother is one of her biggest inspirations and continues to be an encouraging role model. Her mother’s strong sense of work ethic and community values were deeply ingrained in Gomez’s life. No matter how difficult or challenging the circumstances might be, Gomez learned that nothing was truly impossible. Storytelling in all its artforms – musical, spoken, or visual – is what impassions me. A seasoned professional with over a decade of media and advertising experience, Gomez previously served as the head of integrated marketing & content strategy at StyleHaul, a global marketing and media company. There, she helmed creative strategy for influencer-led branded content, and media campaigns across YouTube and other social media. Through her earlier roles at Time Inc., Major League Baseball and L’Oréal USA, Gomez has helped innumerable brands tell their stories and build authentic relationships with their target audiences around the globe. She holds a B.A. in political science from Brown University. Today, Jennifer Gomez is the co-founder and CMO of OneKIN Inc. , a curated online marketplace that amplifies the voices of retailers of color and celebrates the multifaceted identities of multicultural consumers through a unique sto-retail-ing(R) lens. Jennifer oversees the company’s brand and digital marketing efforts, creative direction, public relations and strategic marketing partnerships. Everyday she is inspired by the stories and the resilience of the black and latinx small business owners in the company’s extensive network. Jennifer is able to infuse everything she loves into the company’s brand through storytelling, community, and culture while also making a positive impact with a platform devoted to amplifying the voices and vision of diverse entrepreneurs. Every morning, I wake up trying to figure out how to best leverage the power of tech to elevate culture and help build sustainable brands and communities of color… I feel blessed. Finding the confidence during her journey as an entrepreneur was key to the many successes yet to come. Gomez learned that in order to muster the confidence and free herself of any fear or anxiety, you need a strong support system of family and friends who are there to help guide you every step of the way. It was then when she realized that finding the time to focus on self-care was crucial for growth and progress. Taking care of her mind and body brought forth clarity, patience, and forgiveness. Everything changed when I realized that no matter the outcome, I’ve learned so much, conquered my fears, dared to dream big, and pushed myself to take huge risks. It showed me how truly unstoppable we are. Gomez continues to provide B2B / B2C omni-channel marketing solutions for startups and Fortune 500 companies through her own marketing consulting business, combining data-led strategy and creative storytelling to drive optimal results. This year, Leading Latina Jennifer Gomez is on a mission: to help build a thriving and supportive community of renaissance latina creatives, entrepreneurs, and professionals through her work with Latinas en New York. Seeking empowerment and driving our latin culture forward will bring about the change for a more diverse world. Knowing how difficult it is to begin a new career path, Gomez’s advice for other latinas is sound and true. When you have a goal you’re looking to accomplish she says, “Just go for it, y dale con ganas! Pretend there is no such failure, that you have endless resources, and no impediments.” Aspiring to work towards that vision you have everyday and finding a supportive network will help you in your journey. Gomez seeks to combine her professional background and deep passion/roots in social activism to build a thriving ecosystem of entrepreneurs that spark economic and social empowerment amongst disenfranchised communities. Gomez’ biggest motivation: her two daughters, and the Latino community that raised her. Connect with Jennifer Gomez: @Jennygo13 , @_oneKIN
Leading Latinas 2019: Behind The Scenes Photoshoot of This Year tech professionals and entrepreneurs
Leading Latinas 2019: The Behind The Scenes! Every year, LENY nominates a group of women to form part of a community seeking to empower like-minded individuals in the world of business, career, and entrepreneurship. Making meaningful connections, and sharing inspiring stories that spark profound conversations is at the core of the Leading Latinas campaign strategy – recognizing successful women from all walks of life. This year we will celebrate and honor “Latinas in Technology”. We understand the lack of media coverage and attention paid to Latina tech founders/tech professionals which is why we want to tell the world about their tech journey and discover those that are truly kicking ass and taking names in their technology-related fields. Click Here for More
Adventurous, gregarious, and determined meet Olga Maria |Leading Latina 2018
Olga Maria is a professional travel writer, storyteller, and a full-time digital nomad who runs an award-winning solo female travel & lifestyle blog called Dreams in Heels, featuring travel tips, style, trending destinations, off-the-beaten-path recommendations and lifestyle to inspire people (especially women) to follow their dreams and live life to the maximum. Before becoming a successful, full-time travel writer, Olga Maria discovered her passion for exploring the world while still residing in her hometown, Bayamon, Puerto Rico. She began modeling in high school and gaining the confidence to begin her path of self-transformation and discovery. Upon reading a book she describes as a life-changing experience, Olga Maria decided to leave everything behind in order to start a new journey in NYC. During her extensive travels around the world (Europe, Asia, Africa, The Middle East, Latin America, The Caribbean, USA, and Canada), Olga Maria noticed a lack of representation in traveling amongst Latina women. Feeling inspired to make an impact, this led her to create a community of ambitious Bilingual travelers. As the founder of this community, Latinas Who Travel, Olga Maria has formed an online platform where Latinas are empowered and encouraged to share their journeys with other passionate sightseers. Being a free-spirited New Yorker born with wanderlust and a passion for food, coffee, and wine, Olga Maria’s goal is to clarify myths and misconceptions about countries and cities around the world. Life will continue to take her through a journey where she sees herself inspiring others to take the plunge into traveling abroad and getting out of their comfort zone by experiencing the destination for themselves. Aside from her successful travel blogs, Olga has been featured in publications and sites such as Forbes, Pop Sugar, Univision, Telemundo, Latina Magazine, and many more. She believes there are good people in every corner of the world and there are many different ways to experience travel, regardless of one’s budget, whether one is a solo female traveler, or just simply wants to start by exploring their own neighborhood. Olga Maria is currently in a travel video partnership series with Hiplatina.com and is the Travel Editor of Livid Magazine, where she enjoys inspiring others through her passion for exploring the world. You can read more about Olga Maria on her official websites Latinaswhotravel.com | dreamsinheels.com Thanks to our sponsor & supporters: Main Sponsor CeniaNY | Hair and Makeup by Mariluz Fontanez | Video and Photography by: Innovation Media New York – Ivan Morales | Felipe Tehuitzil – Photographer Behind the scenes| Project Director: Ruben Martis | Image Consultant: Angie Reyn | Social Media Influencer Maria del Pilar Casal|Flower Decor by Flower Delivery NYC! LENY Editor and Social Media Consultant: Nicole Marie Lynch
The only way to do great work is to love what you do. —Steve Jobs
The only way to do great work is to love what you do. —Steve Jobs
Powerful, loving, and grateful, Nadia W. Sierra Mercedes | Latinas en New York
Meet Nadia W. Sierra Mercedes an independent Banking professional with 15+ years of experience in her field. Her background encompasses International Business Development and Management, with a solid experience in Corporate and Investment Finance, Private Banking, and Portfolio Management. Her successful experience in finance and marketing is supplemented by an MBA in Computer Sciences and International Business from New York University. Nadia has served as a Corporate Business Liaison between Latin American companies seeking access to the U.S. and International capital markets and American companies wishing to invest in them. She shares her high level of expertise with corporations in her native country, Dominican Republic, where she helps these firms expand their businesses. As a highly motivated and top performing professional, Nadia fosters and maintains positive relationships with high-profile clients and oversees the preparation of project reports, helping them grow their businesses by creating strategic alliances. She also works to establish short and long-term planning sessions with business partners to improve business processes and prioritize investments in processes, people, applications, services, and infrastructures. Aside from establishing her career as an independent banker, Nadia also serves on the Executive Board of the “Dominican Women Chamber of Commerce” (DWCC). She is currently active, locally and globally, in several charitable organizations such as “La Casa Rosada,” a home for orphaned children in the Dominican Republic, and “Incarnation Children’s Center” in New York City. Nadia W. Sierra Mercedes is fluent in Spanish and English, with an intermediate proficiency in Arabic and Italian. Connect with Nadia W. Sierra Via FB and Instagram https://www.instagram.com Thanks to Our sponsors & supporters: Makeup by: Jay Romero | Facebook: JayRomeroprofessional | Instagram: JayRomeroSalon Video and Photography by: Innovation Media New York – Ivan Morales- Rafael Sanchez | Project Director: Ruben Martis Image Consultant: Angie Reyn | Dress by CeniaNY Hair by: Andrea Vasquez | Instagram: @Fabhairex Editor and Social Media Consultant: Nicole Marie Lynch | Instagram: Nikki_m22 | kari del Rosario Hispano America News | Google