As we all know, this month is dedicated to the wonderful Hispanic and Latinx people in our lives. Thankfully, I continue to surround myself with wonderful people who remind me to stay proud of who I am and are iconic in their own way. Here they are:
- My Mother (of course)
If you don’t know Lynn by now, you’re missing out. She is the definition of an Ecuadorian girl boss and multi-talented person. Since she was young, she has carried herself and her ambitions high and never let anything get in the way of that. She always reminds me and my siblings to be ambitious in our passions and build our tough skin within life. Yet, she is also the most understanding, funny, and loving mom we could ask for. She is always open to learning and is just very open-minded in general. Everyone loves her, but my family and I love her the most (sorry everyone else, but we’re first!). She inspires me to always be true to myself, yet also be open-minded to life as it is. Her interior design skills when it comes to holidays are always top notch; She can definitely turn any house into a home. Because she is home to me.
- Ms. Ashley Diaz
Imagine your aunt is literally a couple months older than you, and it’s weird to call her aunt, so you just tell everyone she’s your cousin. That’s Ms. Ashley. This wonderful Dominican woman has always given main character energy. She has owned her personal style, is an independent city girl from New York City, and has the best aura that lights up the whole block. I love to hear her stories, learn from her, and discuss how we can better ourselves together. Every conversation we share has been as refreshing as a cold raspberry lemonade. From FaceTimes to in-person hangouts, she’s a natural pre-workout that gives an everlasting boost. Now I’m just waiting for her to be the face of Ralph Lauren or the creative director of any brand because she can do it all.
- Ms. Jocelyn Garcia
If self-made was a brand, Jocelyn would be the face of the brand. She is a first generation Accounting major. As a young Mexican woman, she’s already making an impact by taking no one’s sh*t and being involved in the accounting field. Her genuine personality and persistence has only built herself up. If she wants something to happen, she’s gonna make it happen! Her chipmunk-like smile is bound to make you smile as well, especially when you add in her humor and her laugh. That will have you rolling on the floor! If you don’t know the meaning behind the name “Jocelyn”, it signifies joyfulness. Joyfulness is all Jocelyn, and you find this out immediately when you spend time with her. Pantone needs to name a shade of gray after her because that is her favorite color; Maybe something like “Comfy Jocelyn Grey”. She does give off the vibes of a comfy blanket on a brisk Autumn day!
- Titi Melly
If home was a person, it would be my aunt Melly. Her Disney and Marilyn Monroe decor sums up her vibe and personal style as this Dominican woman has a chic sense of style and a loveable personality. She makes everyone feel welcomed in her home, and even outside of her home! This fairy godmother of many, including myself, uses her magic for all the princesses and princes in her life. As sweet as her caramelized outer shell may be, her strong inner self doesn’t let anything that’s not right slide. As much as I love my dad, I love that she is the female version of him as well. Disney better send her some merch or make her an ambassador because her Disney-inspired accessories are simply the best!
There are so many more lovely Latinas in my life who make me proud of the community I am from and how lovely everyone can be by being their individual, authentic selves. Every one of us is making an impact in the spaces that we are in. From work, to school, to community events, we make the best of everything and definitely bring the party.