LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — As Women’s History Month wraps up, a group of Latina leaders in Las Vegas is focused on building something that lasts beyond this month.
What started as a small group of women almost 10 years ago has grown into a network of more than 1,000 Latinas across Nevada.
The organization Latinas in Power is connecting Latinas across industries, from business owners to executives to women just getting started on their careers.
Supporting Latina professionals
“It looks like providing resources about mental health, being able to celebrate our culture, being Latina, and empowering one another, as well as opening doors for one another,” said Ericka Aviles, founder of Latinas in Power.
Aviles said the idea came when she noticed many Latinas have certain pressures that come with being in professional spaces.
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“And some days can be rough. And that’s where we want to say you have that sisterhood behind you to support you and be that shoulder for you,” Aviles said.
She said it may seem small, but things like wearing red lipstick and hoops at work can feel like a bigger conversation about identity. That’s why having a space like Latinas in Power matters.
Building connections across cultures
“I think it’s important because we are very different, right? So Latin America is big and broad. We have different cultures within our Latin countries, right? And what brings us together is the same sense of family, friendship, and always a good fiesta,” said Maria Jose Gatti, vice president of corporate philanthropy for MGM Resorts International.
Gatti and Dr. Yvonne Realivasquez, two longtime members of Latinas in Power, said they help lift each other up.
As leaders in education and the hospitality industry, they said sticking together is what opens doors for others.
“I’ve gotten to know so many different people. I’ve networked with people that I never would have even met had I not been part of the community that she created,” Realivasquez said.
As Latinas in Power continues to grow, they said so does the mission. To make sure the next generation of Latinas doesn’t have to navigate those spaces alone.
“And at the end of the day, we also have to be very proud that we speak a beautiful language, most of us too. And it’s beautiful from anywhere you look at it. So be proud of the culture, each other, our language, our food, and who we are, red lipstick and all,” Gatti said.
Aviles said they are always looking for more Latinas in Power.
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