What makes you proud of being a women but also Latina?
The women around me have always been strong and amazing. Growing up in a Mexican - American household showed me that these women have many jobs and hats they wear to make sure everything is taken care of. Working outside the household while still coming home and continue to take care of everyone before themselves. I have a great respect to them because of that. Women are super heroes without the powers but with unconditional love that isn’t selfish but pure. I’m proud to be a woman because we are the back bone to our loved ones. I am proud to be a Latina because we do whatever it takes to make sure everyone around us is doing good. Being a woman isn’t easy at times but I wouldn’t change it for anything in the world. My voice for Como La Latina is a tribute to give to all my women out there. This brand is for you. Inspiration for Como La Latina came from working with my creative best friend and from that team work I realized how amazing it is when women work and support each other. I felt proud to be a woman on a mission and felt empowered and proud. As a Latina I knew I had a voice I needed to share.
Is there someone you look up to?
Growing up I had a few people in my life I looked up to and they are my family. My family is complicated and rough around the edges but without each and everyone of them I wouldn’t be who I am. They all hold a special role in my heart and have always believed in my dreams no matter how big. For example for Como La Latina I’ve had them cheering me on, telling me how proud they are or even helping me accomplish something for the brand and for that I will always be grateful. I don’t know what I would do without my family. We may not be perfect but they are my support system and I wouldn’t change that for anything. So this brand and big idea is for you guys too and of coarse my husband Mike for being my partner in crime. Thank you for helping me build Como La Latina.
Do you feel Latino culture has had a big impact on who you are?
I fully believe growing up in a Mexican - American household has definitely pursued who I am as a person. I also grew up in a border town named Nogales AZ. where Mexico is just a drive or walk away. My culture has always been around me and I have grown up with both English and Spanish influences and for that I am very proud of. No soy de aquí, ni de allá but I appreciate the person it’s molded me into. As an adult I’ve learned to appreciate my background and embrace my roots but have been inspired to empower my fellow Latinas. Our voice is louder then ever and the momentum isn’t going to stop.
Do you have any current projects you are working on and accomplishments you would like to talk about?
Como La Latina is my project that I hope will grow and blossom into something amazing. As the founder it has become my mission to raise the next generations of Strong Bad Ass Latinas. We are not a stereotype no longer and I’m here to show how all these beautiful women are all special and strong in their own way.
Do you have any words of advice and encouragement to future generations of all women?
From my experience my biggest advice is to put yourself first, be selfish and embrace who you want to become. That is your biggest power. Navigate yourself in the direction in your life that is best for you. No one else.