This year’s theme “Latina Leadership� encompassed many facets and we were indeed privileged to have the participation of honored guest, Veronica Villafañe, a San Jose, CA TV Anchor and Producer and also the current president of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists. Veronica was joined on the panelist dais by three accomplished local Latina’s who shared their valuable perspectives- Nancy Hernandez, President of ABRAZO Multicultural Marketing & Communications, Martha Artiles, Chief Diversity Officer for Manpower Inc and Cristy Garcia-Thomas, Publisher & Editor of ¡Aqui! Milwaukee. These dynamic Latina leaders shared their leadership experiences and skills and also addressed the struggles and obstacles encountered on their leadership journeys.

From my perspective, it is only within the last two decades that we women have begun to realize and to experience a small portion of our full potential. More importantly, we are becoming aware that we do not have to accept the roles dictated to us by society, but that we can in fact take control of our own lives and determine our own destinies. Today we are a much more global society. We are more educated, expecting more and holding people accountable.

To become a leader does not require exceptional intelligence but rather exceptional personal commitment. A leader establishes direction, aligns people, motivates, inspires and communicates. And sometimes a true leader actually follows.

A leader has a special ability to make others listen, think and act. That ability lives in each of us; we all have various levels of influence which translates into leadership. A leader is unassuming, unselfish and empathetic. A leader knows the way, goes the way and then shows the way.

As women seeking new horizons there comes a defining moment to act courageously and to take risks as we venture into all walks of life. As women, we must continue to be intolerant of mediocrity, we must attain through our own merits, positions of influence and authority. Latinas must strongly advocate the numerous benefits of higher education to our young, continue to embrace a culture with strong family and religious values, champion community and preserve cultural identities, traditions and language.

To all mis hermanas (sisters) - Believe in yourself.

The best is yet to come!

Maria Monreal-Cameron
President and CEO