Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month: Empowering Latines in Tech

As Hispanic Heritage Month starts, I reflect on my journey as a young Latina in technology. It's been a path filled with unique experiences, challenges, and moments of triumph. In this blog post, I want to share my perspective on what it's like to be a Latina in tech and how you can help advocate for others during Hispanic Heritage Month and throughout the year. These points don’t just apply to Latines but to any marginalized community out there; I’m just speaking from the perspective I am most familiar with.

Try to guess which one’s me.

Breaking Barriers, One Step at a Time

As a Latina in tech, I've often felt like a pioneer, charting a course in uncharted territory where I stand out like a sore thumb. Every day, I navigate through a world that, at times, can feel both daunting and exhilarating but also demeaning and disheartening. I've also realized that I'm not alone in this journey despite my hurdles. Many other Latines are forging their paths, and we can support each other to reach our goals. Often, in our efforts to only show our strongest selves to the world, we gloss over challenges we face in our day-to-day lives:

Representation: There’s no denying the lack of Latine representation in technology. In many rooms, I find myself being the only person who looks like me. This lack of representation can be isolating, but it fuels my determination to create change. For instance, I love wearing bright red lipstick because it reminds me of my mom; she is the strongest person I know. It makes me stand out even more, but I refuse to blend into the background and hide my true, authentic self. 

Stereotypes: It's disheartening when people assume Latines are less technically proficient or knowledgeable. I've encountered these stereotypes firsthand, which only motivates me to prove them wrong. Often, I feel like I stand in the shadow of so many stereotypes, but I refuse to let them define me. There have been many times in my career where I have been called out for being overly emotional, too passionate, and even one time where I got asked “are all Venezuelans so spicy?” The shame, anger, and fury I felt in that moment is not something I'm going to forget in my life.

Language Barriers: Being bilingual can be an asset, but it can also present challenges, particularly in a field where precise communication is paramount. Navigating these linguistic hurdles has been a part of my journey. I don’t know what to say when people tell me, “Wow, you have no accent” - it makes me feel so uncomfortable. It feels like I'm putting down others trying their best if I accept this “compliment.” However, I'm seen as being dramatic if I address my viewpoint on this topic. 

Access to Resources: I've faced the reality that Latines often have less access to critical resources like mentorship, scholarships, and networking opportunities. This disparity can hinder our career growth. I would not be where I stand today had people not given me opportunities to show my potential and believe in me. Try to be there for others who are getting started; you don’t know how much it will mean to them.

The Power of Advocacy

Advocacy is not just a buzzword; it's a way of life you can adopt and learn through daily. As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, it's essential to recognize the impact that advocacy can have on our journeys:

Mentorship and Sponsorship: I've seen firsthand how mentorship and sponsorship can be transformative. Advocating for mentorship programs that pair Latines with experienced professionals can make a difference. Mentorship involves guidance, advice, and support provided by an experienced individual to help develop skills and knowledge, while sponsorship entails a more active endorsement and advocacy for an individual's career advancement, often involving influential individuals promoting their mentee’s opportunities and growth within an organization.

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives: I've witnessed the positive changes that diversity and inclusion initiatives can bring. These efforts create a more welcoming environment where Latines can thrive. You can advocate for starting these programs in your own organizations, or participate and volunteer in opportunities to help marginalized groups. 

Educational Opportunities: Advocating for educational opportunities and scholarships targeted explicitly at Latines can break down barriers and provide access to desperately needed resources. I’ve gotten the chance to participate in and run mock interviews, resume reviews, and 1:1 mentorship opportunities. It’s incredibly rewarding to get to help people and give back when you can.  

Representation Matters: Representation is vital. Advocating for diverse representation in all aspects of the tech industry helps showcase the talents and expertise of Latines. Observing Latine professionals represented at both the C-Suite and mid-management levels, alongside peers who share my background, reassures me about the potential future opportunities available to me.

Community Building: Creating and nurturing support networks within the tech industry is crucial. These communities provide mentorship, advice, and a sense of belonging that can be invaluable. (Hey, have you heard about our Belonging Groups?)

Conclusion

As a young Latina in tech, Hispanic Heritage Month reminds us of our rich heritage and our potential. Advocacy is not just a duty; it's a privilege that allows us to uplift and empower one another. We can break through barriers, challenge stereotypes, and create a more inclusive tech industry. Let's continue to support, uplift, and celebrate the incredible Latines in tech during this month and every day of the year. Our journey is personal, but our impact is boundless.

I also wanted to shout out Next Gen - a fantastic program aimed at helping underrepresented groups land jobs through experience-driven skills programs and mentoring. By shining a spotlight on racial equity, gender equity and combatting generational poverty, their focus is to provide opportunities for all. If you resonated with anything I said in this article, and you’re looking for a chance - you should apply for this program. I’ve seen firsthand how it can change lives, and I’m excited to see the success that will keep coming from its participants.