Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month: 13 Voices of Inspiration From the Hall of Femme
Hispanic Heritage Month is a time of reflection, celebration, and appreciation for the rich tapestry of culture and contributions that have shaped the United States. Spanning from September 15 to October 15, this annual event invites us to honor the achievements and resilience of Hispanic and Latinx communities throughout history.
Within the ranks of the Hall of Femme, there is a diverse array of voices, experiences, and stories that embody the spirit of Hispanic Heritage Month. From trailblazing entrepreneurs and fearless activists to visionary artists and inspirational leaders, these badass women have shattered glass ceilings, overcome adversities, and paved the way for a brighter, more inclusive future. In their own words, they share their insights, wisdom, and passion, reminding us of the power of heritage and the importance of unity.
Join us in celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with this curated collection of quotes from some of the Hispanic-identified honorees of the Hall of Femme, as their voices continue to inspire and uplift us all. Cheers!
ISABEL RAFFERTY
Founder and CEO, Canela Media
“I take great pride in inspiring women through my actions breaking down barriers to inclusion. Female leaders in business are uncommon. My department heads tend to be female executives who like working under my leadership because I get them. I was never the obvious choice for my roles early in my career. People wouldn’t respect me from just meeting me. I had to let my work speak for itself so people could judge my accomplishments; not my gender.”
PAM COVARRUBIAS
Founder, Power Sisters Method
“I uplift women by reminding them of their voice, the power they have, and I support them so they can own their story.”
CAMILLE ROISTACHER
Founder and CEO, WYLLOW
“....Sometimes just being present is all that’s needed — no doing, just being. To be seen and heard is what all women deserve.”
MARICEL SAENZ
Founder and CEO, Compound Foods
“[Success is] when you find joy and fulfillment in the work that you do and the people you surround yourself with.”
KAYLA CASTANEDA
Founder and CEO, Agua Bonita
“I define success as working on something I am passionate about, on my own terms. I uplift other women by amplifying their work, doing business with them, and sharing resources.”
Photographer and Illustrator
“I love that I get the opportunity to play, through both my storytelling and design. That I get to uplift my culture and create meaningful connections with my community and beyond.”
NATALIE ALCALA
Founder, Fashion Mamas
“I like to call myself a ‘hype girl for humanity’ because I'm passionate about helping women and all humans reach their full potential. By sharing my less-than-perfect journey to success, my hope is that people can see a little of themselves in me, and in turn empower them so that they too can reach their dreams — against all odds.”
Entrepreneur and Women-in-Tech Advocate
“I come from a feminine lineage of phenomenal women. My grandmother was a woman advanced for her era, a teacher, always inspiring the younger generations. From her I learned the importance of giving back. And my mother is a woman impacting others’ lives through her career advising entrepreneurs and business leaders. From her I learned the importance of a role model.”
NATALIE POLANCO
Producer and Program Manager
“It's nice to know I can help my people — women, Latinos, folks of color, ‘the gays and theys’ — these are the people that too often get unfairly locked out of my industry. It's nice to know that I have some capacity to help change that and give them the shot they deserve.”
LORNY PFEIFER
Founder of LatinX in VC
“I wouldn't have gotten to where I am now without mentors, and I pay it forward just the same by mentoring and helping other women in as many fields as I can, like venture capital, data science, and now Web3.
EVA RECINOS
Writer
“I used to define success by how many hours I could squeeze out of the day. I wanted to get the best grades, land every internship, and work as hard as possible. Nowadays, I define success in terms of connection. If even one of my pieces inspires, entertains, or moves someone, that's the best feeling.”
ESTHELA DAVILA OJEDA + CARMEN FAVELA
Co-Founders and Owners, Mujeres Brew Club
“Craft beer has grown leaps and bounds, and we are making our mark as strong independent women in the industry…Our space is literally the definition of a place that I always wanted to visit but didn't exist.”
Actress and Singer-Songwriter
“I come from Mexico, where women are seen as housewives, daughters, and wives. Women are not taught how to be their own independent selves. Women are treated as objects and seen as weak. One of my missions in life is to teach, both by example and by talking and spreading information on how to become independent and to follow their passions and dreams and not to be discouraged by their circumstances.”