By Gabriela Linares, lead marketing specialist at Washington Gas
As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, I find myself reflecting deeply on my journey as a Latina woman—one shaped by my upbringing, professional challenges, and personal triumphs. From my international childhood to my career in leadership roles, this journey highlights the resilience of Hispanic women while emphasizing the continued fight for equity, transparency, and opportunity in the workplace.
A Global Upbringing: Shaped by Culture and Identity
My story begins in Washington, D.C., where I was born to Venezuelan diplomats. Growing up across cities like Savannah, Georgia; Vienna, Austria; and Madrid, Spain, my childhood was a melting pot of diverse experiences. Summers spent in Venezuela, the Dominican Republic, and Nicaragua further enriched my cultural perspective. This global upbringing shaped my worldview, helping me appreciate the richness of different cultures and making me fluent in Spanish, German, and French. It also taught me to cherish my heritage, and that pride remains at the core of who I am today.
Living in Vienna, Austria at the age of eight, surrounded by students from over 80 countries at an international school, I learned the true meaning of diversity and inclusion. We were equals, learning from one another’s differences and celebrating them. It was here that the seeds of global unity and respect for all cultures were planted in my heart. Attending the British secondary (high) school at King’s College in Madrid, Spain, among international students, further cemented the importance of global interconnectedness, acceptance, and respect.These formative experiences set the foundation for the rest of my life and career, where I’ve worked to embody those same values.
Throughout my career, I’ve remained deeply connected to my Venezuelan roots. From the language and traditions to the music and food that tie me to my family and culture, these elements have been guiding lights as I’ve navigated the complexities of the professional world. Venezuelan heritage, especially during Hispanic Heritage Month, reminds me of the strength, vibrancy, and joy that we carry with us wherever we go.
Venezuelan Influence and the Fight for Justice
Growing up with Venezuelan parents, I was also deeply impacted by the political struggles in my home country. The legacy of Simón Bolívar and the ongoing quest for democracy in Latin America shaped my passion for justice, equality, and social responsibility. These struggles are part of a broader context for many in the Hispanic community who strive to create better lives despite political and economic instability. I believe that supporting democracy and human rights is key to addressing migration challenges and providing economic opportunities across borders.
As I reflect on this, I see how my background fuels my dedication to fostering equity in the workplace. We need to create environments that promote fairness, diversity, and inclusion for all, including Hispanic professionals.
Breaking Ground Professionally
Entering the professional world, I quickly realized that my international background offered unique advantages. One of my career-defining moments came when I led the launch of the first Internet Service Provider in the Dominican Republic, a groundbreaking achievement that connected the country to the digital age. This experience, along with my ability to navigate multicultural spaces, led to many successes, including my role as Vice President of Marketing, where I achieved 300% annual growth and earned Deloitte’s Fast 50 awards for five consecutive years.
Yet, despite these accomplishments, my journey has been fraught with challenges. Like many Latina women, I’ve faced discrimination in the workplace. There have been instances where I was passed over for promotions or paid less than my peers despite my qualifications and contributions. These experiences reflect a larger issue that many Hispanic women face—unequal pay and limited opportunities for advancement.
Facing Discrimination: A Personal Story
One particular experience stands out in my mind. After giving a presentation at a company town hall, a cleaning lady I had befriended approached me with a heartfelt message. She told me that when she saw my name called to speak, she prayed I would do well, saying she wanted me to show that Latinas are capable of so much more than society often assumes. That conversation stuck with me. It highlighted the stereotypes that Hispanic women, even in professional settings, still fight to overcome.
It’s moments like these that remind me of the urgency of fighting for pay equity and equal opportunities for Hispanic women in the workforce. We must continue breaking down barriers and challenging the status quo.
The Road Ahead: Pay Equity and Accountability
As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, we must not only honor our heritage but also commit to making lasting change. Hispanic women still earn less than their peers, and many continue to face barriers in career progression. Pay transparency and accountability are crucial steps toward closing the wage gap. It’s not just about fairness in salary; it’s about respect, dignity, and the value of our contributions.
Together, we can advocate for pay equity, push for systemic changes, and create spaces where Hispanic women can thrive. I’m proud of my journey, but there is still much work to do to ensure the road ahead is smoother for the next generation of Latina professionals. As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, let’s uplift one another and continue to push for progress. Our community is resilient, and together, we can achieve the equity we deserve.
Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate our culture, contributions, and the road ahead. I am proud of my journey and the challenges I’ve overcome, but I remain committed to ensuring that the path is smoother for those who come after me. Pay equity is not just a goal; it is a necessity.