Latinas earn 52 cents to every dollar paid to white, non-Hispanic men. But these female founders share how they succeeded even though the odds were stacked against them.
October recognizes Latina Equal Pay Day. That means Latinas have to work nine months longer to make the same pay as white men. In other words, Latinas earn about 52 cents to every dollar paid to white, non-Hispanic men.
The good news is, there is no shortage of Latinas working hard to flip that statistic – and they are succeeding. Several of these female founders were featured at a recent “Celebrating Latina Disruptors” event in New York City, co-hosted by event founder Sandra Campos and Luminary’s Cate Luzio.
The founders told their origin stories, explained the obstacles they face and, importantly, shared the secret sauce to succeeding when the odds are stacked against them.Build Your Personal Board of Directors.
One theme repeated consistently throughout the event was the importance of quality over quantity when establishing your inner network, or “personal board of directors.” Founders should focus on finding people who will amplify you rather than drain you. “Your success is entirely up to the people you allow in your inner circle,” says Lisa Morales-Hellebo. The CEO and co-founder of Refashnd Ventures recommends being selective and surrounding yourself only with people who will willingly give to you; and then when you are able, make sure to give back. “Find mentors who will become sponsors,” she says. “And remember, if they’re not supporting you, they’re in your way.”Use Your “Otherness” As Your Superpower.
All of the speakers described times during their lives when they sought to hide their immigrant backgrounds.
