As part of the NFL initiative to recognize Latino leaders for their leadership and commitment to their communities nationwide, the Chicago Bears presented Elba Aranda-Suh, Executive Director of the National Latino Education Institute with the Hispanic Heritage Leadership Award for 17 years of service to her community in providing programs that link education, employment, and self-sufficiency, to directly affect economic sustainability and community development in Chicago.

Como parte de la iniciativa de la NFL en reconocer líderes latinos que han demostrado un compromiso en sus comunidades, los Chicago Bears presentaron a Elba Aranda-Suh, directora ejecutiva del National Latino Education Institute con el galardón Hispanic Hispanic Leadership; por 17 años dedicados a servir a su comunidad diseñando programas que vinculan la educación con el empleo y la autosuficiencia para afectar de manera positiva y directa la sustentabilidad económica para un  desarrollo comunitario.

Success is largely determined by an ability to play to your strengths. If you happen to be shy or introverted, do not limit your dreams or count yourself out just because you do not fit the traditional image of an entrepreneur.
There is more than one path to success.

While visibility is a natural part of networking, that does not mean you have to be the centre of attention. Rather than approaching networking like an extrovert, introverts should relax, plan ahead and let their true personalities shine through.

Here are some helpful hints. READ MORE AT GRAPHIC ONLINE

Throughout your job search, you will be composing emails and creating cover letters to introduce yourself to potential employers. Your writing is your first impression, so you'll want to polish your skills.

Some companies still ask for cover letters, and some recruiters and hiring managers want to see one. The best approach is... READ MORE AT U.S. WORLD & NEWS REPORT

Changing demographics will create potential opportunities for Latino workers in the future - but only if Latinos can boost their educational attainment and surmount barriers to career readiness. That's the takeaway from a new report on the Latino "skills gap" by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI).

The report highlights two clear trends for the second half of the 21st century. Members of the baby-boom generation will be entering retirement in record numbers, creating a void in the American workforce. Simultaneously the 80 million young people known as millennials will be entering the workplace - and that's where Latinos factor in. READ MORE AT NBCNEWS

Some people think networking is only useful for finding clients or landing a new job.

In fact, an often overlooked benefit of networking is the opportunity to learn from others and connect with people you can bounce new ideas off of. If you are trying to solve a business or career problem, chances are that others have already dealt with it and can offer you good advice. Even if they don’t, simply discussing the issue with others may spark creative ideas.

In addition, when you need a service or product, those in your network may be able to suggest companies that they trust and have already worked with. Ask people for recommendations and you will have plenty of companies to invite to your procurement initiative or to negotiate with directly.

Here are some tips on how to become more successful at networking. READ MORE AT FORBES

America's start-up culture is waking up from its post-recession slumber.

New business creation has long been sluggish compared with previous decades. In 2013, it hit a 20-year low. But since then, the pace of start-up creation has climbed for two years running, according to a study by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, and is approaching levels not seen since before the recession, in 2008 and 2009. Significantly, new entrepreneurs are opening up shop not because of necessity — in other words, not because they were previously unemployed and needed income — but because they see an opportunity that previously didn't exist. READ MORE AT THE WEEK

The Hispanic population in the United States hit 57 million last year and the demographic accounts for more than half of the total U.S. population growth since 2004.

A Pew Research Center study found that California is the state with the highest number of Latinos, 15 million. Second is Texas (10.4 million), followed far behind by Florida (4.8 million), New York (3.7 million), and Illinois (2.2 million).

The three counties with the highest rate of Latino population growth, however, are in North Dakota. Between 2007 and 2014, Williams County's Latino population grew 367 percent, followed by Stark County (294 percent) and Ward County (117 percent). READ MORE AT NEWSMAX

Are you just back from vacation, feeling refreshed and ready to take on more career challenges? Now’s the time to use that energy to propel yourself forward by creating a career development plan! Here’s how.

Look in the mirror. Begin by seeing yourself as a competitive product. Take inventory of your strengths, weaknesses and differentiators, and then challenge yourself by facing any weaknesses and making improvements. What books can you read or seminars can you attend to improve your professional skills? READ MORE AT FORBES

A record number of U.S.-born Latinos will be turning 18 by Election Day and are expected to have a significant impact at the polls in November, says a new study examining Hispanic demographic trends and consumer behavior within the community.

The study, "From the Ballot Box to the Grocery Store: A 2016 Perspective on Growing Hispanic Influence in America," from the Nielsen marketing research firm found that 6 million young Latinos will have become eligible to vote between the presidential election in 2008 and this year's election.

Since the last presidential election in 2012, 3.4 million Latinos are expected to have turned 18 by this November and represent 12 percent of the total Latino voting population — larger than any other group of the same age. READ MORE AT NBC NEWS

A taco truck on every corner? How about a taco truck at every polling site instead.

The U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce hopes that a new campaign to bolster taco truck vendors will serve as a strong symbolic response to a supporter of Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, who warned last week that the "dominant" and "imposing" Latino culture might lead to "taco trucks on every corner."

On Tuesday, the Hispanic Chamber, which says it represents 4.1 million Hispanic-owned businesses nationwide, took things a step further, announcing a "Guac the Vote" campaign to encourage taco truck owners to register customers to vote and then to park outside polling sites on Election Day in a symbolic, if tasty, protest of Gutierrez's comments. READ MORE AT THE TIMES BATON ROUGE

Networking; many people see it as a necessary evil in the business world, but for some it can be difficult to master.

Networking connects people, sparks new ideas, forges new partnerships, and makes an event worth attending. Sounds great. However, the problem with networking is that it can be, well, awkward. If you’ve ever turned up to a gathering as a ‘newbie’ or first-timer, you’ll know the feeling of hovering by the doorway, not knowing who to approach or where to begin. READ MORE AT CONFERENCE NEWS

A new survey issued by People en Español’s Latina@Work has concluded that a staggering 80 percent of Latina women are likely to say they feel they must work twice as hard due to their background, compared to non-Hispanic white women. The study breaks down what some of us might not already know.

According to Business Wire, “People en Español surveyed nearly 1,000 women to uncover how Latinas, who are experiencing more professional and educational growth than ever before, are modulating two opposing versions of themselves. As trailblazers among their families, they are simultaneously breaking cultural barriers and managing cultural expectations, which results in a feeling of “otherness” both at work and at home.” READ MORE AT VIBE

Over the past decade, technology companies and their leaders have launched diversity and inclusion (D&I) initiatives, hoping to make employees of all backgrounds and experiences feel welcome in our industry.

We failed.

The data shows that, especially in the tech space, we have not moved the needle on the number of women, blacks, or Latinos in our ranks, despite efforts to do so. Why not? What are we missing? READ MORE AT HARVARD BUSINESS REVIEW

Nearly one in six people in the United States is Hispanic, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, but many credit unions are missing out on connecting with that market. This market group, which controls $1.3 trillion in buying power, will have a projected reach of $1.7 trillion by 2020, according to Nielsen research. READ MORE AT CREDIT UNION TIMES

How do we get ahead in our careers? Some say occupying certain positions in the company helps. Others feel having the right personality is the key to success.

To better understand why people do well at work and experience career advancement, I examined over 137 past research projects conducted to assess the effects of position in a company and personality on job performance and career success.

In the workplace, the position in the company can provide informal networking that offers selected individuals benefits ranging from access to critical resources to opportunities to connect with different groups of people for future undertakings. READ MORE AT THE JAKARTA POST

Acculturation continues to be contested in our industry. The death of the Spanish-language continues to be trumpeted. The need for specific Hispanic marketing efforts has even been called into question with the growing popularity of Total Market efforts.

Yet Hispanic media is thriving. Mitú, a Spanish-language vlogger network, raised $27 million in funding this year, Cox Media is launching Glosi, a premium Spanish-language video streaming service, and Netflix is increasing Spanish-language programming. The list goes on and on.

So, how do these two seemingly competitive narratives coexist in the Hispanic market space? READ MORE AT MEDIAPOST

Hispanic women say they worry about seeming “too Latina” at work. We’re often told to be “authentic” at work. But what if being your true self puts you at a disadvantage?

That’s the question that Latinas struggle with every day, according to Latina@Work, a study released Monday by People en Español and Lieberman Research Worldwide.

Even though the vast majority (80%) of Latinas say that they want to be seen as who they really are at work, they tend to play down their accents and play up their collegiate backgrounds, according to the research. One of the key findings of the study... READ MORE AT FORTUNE

From left to right: Ana Gil Garcia, Karina Llergo Salto, Trina Fresco, Leticia Romero, Evelin Freytas

by Trina M. Fresco

Latinas that Lead; an apropos title for the 2016 Latina Trailblazers event which took us to every real place no one talks about.  It has received so much positive feedback, that HispanicPro president, Alfonso Barrera, has launched an editorial series to memorialize the lessons learned.  We have all been to events where the panel promises to uncover the secrets to success, yet when we get into the thick of it there isn’t really much substance.  Instead, it all seems so simple and the people must have had sunshine and rainbows served for breakfast on a daily rotation.  Not so this time.  No, this time we heard the truth about how these Latinas that Lead had to forge their way through a history of violence, divorce, murder and extreme poverty to live their purpose.  It does have tones of a novela, but real life can be crushing and if you are trying to follow your dreams, it is almost guaranteed life will be really tough.  Throughout all of the struggles, they made it and I have the great fortune to tell their stories in hopes that maybe one person can exhale for just a moment in their turmoil and KNOW they too can make it.

The line up:

• Evelin Freytas: Agent and Owner-New York Life Insurance, President-University of Illinois Latina/Latino Alumni Association
• Ana Gil Garcia: Professor-Northeastern Illinois University
• Karina Llergo Salto: Arts & Crafts Professional-Karina Llergo Art
• Leticia Romero: Owner-Azul Holistic Spa & Wellness Center, Author-Today’s Inspired LATINA

Success certainly isn’t easy for Latin women in this country knowing we are compensated, on average, just 55 cents for every dollar paid to white, non-Hispanic men according to the National Partnership for Women & Families.  Imagine then, the cross-cultural navigation required for each of these immigrant powerhouses to own their journeys.  It is beautiful.  These Latina Trailblazers were put up against some serious trials: for one of them, just as the plan was coming together, a murdered family member flipped reality on its head and for another, the community had no faith in their pursuit of education.  Those obstacles only made for wiser, more determined souls.  Evelin, Ana, Karina and Leticia have developed much needed emotional muscles, so strong that the uncertainty which once attempted to hold them back is nowhere to be found.  They shared some guiding principles that can be added like ingredients to anyone’s secret sauce.

Mantras for success:

• Do what you say. Basically have the integrity to be a person of your word.
• Follow your passion WITH balance in ALL aspects your life.  Though it sounds challenging, the guidance for this mantra is to recognize the valued aspects of your life and ensure you are spending balanced time in all of them.
• Trust.  You must have faith to trust in your path.
• “You can have everything in life you want, if you will just help other people get what they want,” Zig Ziglar
• You can do anything anyone else can.  Success isn’t reserved for a select few, no absolutely not.  If another human being can do it, so can you.
• Kindness is free.  Being kind to people puts yourself in harmony with the world around you and ultimately the law of attraction will deliver kindness right back to you.

Advice to their younger selves:

• Words are empty meaningless vessels; don’t let that affect your life.  Sometimes the people we hold dearest say things that stay with us for far too long and can replay over and over in your head.  Ultimately it’s meaningless, forget it. 
• Invest in yourself with a mentor.  When you are young you think you have the answers to everything and a mentor can help evaluate your strategy to make sure you are making the most effective choices.
• Networking, networking, connect and ask questions.  Knowing people and people knowing what you do helps you achieve your dreams faster.  It is so much about who you know.
• Don’t get married too young.  There is enough time in life to wait a bit.
• Learn multiple languages.  We live in a global economy and learning more languages exposes us to global opportunities.

Remember that anyone can be a trailblazer, no matter the degree or the pedigree.  Who knows, you may very well be blazing a trail for the next generation to learn from your experiences.  Grab one of the mantras that aligns with your greatest opportunity to become your best self and know destiny is yours for the taking.  Mistakes might be made along the way, but that is precisely why we learned about the lessons the panel wished they could’ve told their younger selves.  Hindsight really is 20/20, unless you have a few generous Latinas who want to fast track your success.

The assimilation of Hispanics into American culture is having an interesting side effect. It’s widening the gap between generations, emphasizing the growing differences between the young and old, in a demographic where they often live in the same household.

Younger Hispanics have very different media preferences than their grandparents and even their parents. They have their own unique language preference. And they’re much more educated.

This has over time shaped a unique demographic group that advertisers should be courting quite differently than the older one.

A new report from Nielsen takes an in-depth look at the Hispanic demographic, in which these growing differences emerge. READ MORE AT MEDIALIFE MAGAZINE

One week away! Read biographies of the feature guests for the 2016 Sales and Entrepreneurship Networking Forum being held Wednesday, August 24 at Vertigo Sky Lounge - rooftop lounge of the Dana Hotel and Spa Chicago.

Discussion Panelist

Gladys De La Mora, TV Host, “Un Nuevo Amanecer” Show

Gladys is a TV host and anchor for the recently launched "Un Nuevo Amanecer" Show airing on Telemundo, one of the largest Hispanic TV networks in the United States. “Un Nuevo Amanecer” is a 100 % family oriented TV program where viewers find a variety of interesting subjects all aimed at improving their quality of life and enhancing family values. “Un Nuevo Amanecer” is formed by professionals committed to always give their best to their viewers and family.

In addition, Gladys De La Mora is the founder of Delamora Insurance Agency, a company focused on helping families and business owners understand their auto, home, life, business and specialty insurance coverage.

While pursuing her major in accounting and financial management at Northeastern University, Gladys was on the Dean’s List and received recognition for her academic achievements. She enjoys volunteering her time for non-for-profit organizations that help families and students move toward financial stability.
As an Author for "Today's Inspired Latina" Book, she speaks about her personal and professional journey. Gladys is a Motivator Speaker and MC-Moderator for different events.

She has been featured in Inc Magazine, Mundofox, NBC, Telemundo, Univision TV and Radio.

Jason Garcia, Wealth Management Officer, First Midwest Bank

Jason Garcia is a Wealth Management Officer with First Midwest Bank, Chicago - Metro. Jason works with high net worth individuals and families as well as public and private foundations and endowments to address their distinctive wealth management needs. He channels the extensive resources of First Midwest Trust Company to assist client needs in the following areas: investment management, trust administration, retirement and long-term financial planning strategies and custom credit, lending and banking needs.

Jason has worked in the financial services industry since 1999. His experience includes tenures with the Northern Trust Company, BMO - Harris Private Bank, U.S. Trust and Charles Schwab. His roles included Wealth Strategist, Team Manager, Financial Consultant and International Business Development Director.

Jason earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana - Champaign. He also holds two Master's degrees in U.S. Foreign Relations and International Business from the University of Kentucky. Jason completed the Certificate Program in Financial Planning at DePaul University - Chicago. He also carries the Series 7, 66, 63, 9, 10 & 24 securities licenses.

Jason has volunteered his time with Catholic Charities, the Knights of Columbus, Wounded Warriors, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Overture Council, the ALPFA Tax Advisory Board of Chicago (www.alpfa.org) and Youth Baseball as a coach.

Annabelle Lee, Managing Sales Director, MassMutual Illinois

Annabelle's tenure in the financial services industry spans over 10 years, starting in the Private Equity / Venture Capital business for a firm specializing in the technology sector. She is best known for delivering high quality personalized services customized to help meet the specific goals of those who she works with. Her practice focuses on recruiting, developing, and helping to grow new and established financial advisors from diverse cultural markets, along with an emphasis on estate planning and risk management for individuals, families, and businesses through her own practice. In order to address the unique needs and concerns of a particular clientele, Annabelle has developed a sound knowledge of and expertise in: investment and retirement strategies, life insurance analysis and implementation, disability and long-term care insurance, business succession arrangements, executive compensation strategies, and employee benefit and retention plans.

Annabelle also understands the value of diversity and is extensively involved in the multi-cultural marketing and recruiting initiatives supported by her company as she is also a second generation Korean American born in South Korea. MassMutual Financial Group is a recognized industry leader in inclusion and diversity as exemplified by the Fortune 100 Company's partnership with various organizations and sponsorships both on the corporate and local level.

Traveling to new regions, exploring different culinary cuisines, attending the symphony, opera, and concerts, biking and yoga are just a few of her hobbies that she enjoys on her free time. Furthermore, Annabelle can often be found cheering for her favorite Chicago sports teams at their respective stadiums.

Emmanuel Lopez, Member Engagement Manager, Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce

Emmanuel Lopez is the Member Engagement Manager for the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce. Emmanuel’s primary role is to connect with businesses while generating new members and provide existing Chamber members with strategies to successfully grow their business and networks throughout the 6 counties of the Chicagoland Area.

The Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce was established in 1904 and is one of the largest business chambers in the United States. Its members consist of more than 1,000 organizations from Fortune 100 companies, small, mid-market businesses, technology startups, and non-profits.

The Chamber’s members support more than 400,000 employees and account for more than 24 billion dollars in annual revenue. Crain’s Chicago Business recognizes the Chamber as the top networking organization in the city of Chicago.

Prior to the Chamber, Manny spent eight years in the health and wellness sector, where he developed a passion for networking and connecting people in Chicago’s business community. Manny loves to give back, evidenced by his involvement in Chicago’s philanthropic and civic community; he serves as Vice President of the University of Oklahoma Alumni Club in Chicago, on the Board of Directors for the Rugby Business Network, Associates Board Member for The Gateway to Cancer Research and volunteers for the Imerman Angels One-On-One Cancer Support. He loves golf, football, and played semi-pro rugby for eight years. Manny is bilingual in English and Spanish and is always open to connecting people throughout Chicago’s business community.

Claudia Telles, President, Trailblazing Business

Claudia Telles is owner of Trailblazing Business and helps ambitious women earn more by helping them start their own business while working full-time and through salary negotiation. She enjoys creating content that is easy to follow and take action on, while leaving all the fluff. Based on her teaching style, her clients have been able to start their business in days and others have negotiated over $5k in salary raises successfully and accelerated their careers.

Claudia has been recently featured in Business Insider, Yahoo! Finance, Payscale, Lawndale News and B96 radio. While managing and running her business, She also works as a Quality Assurance Manager at a Chicago Hospital overseeing the quality program for over 12 units.

Claudia graduated from University of Illinois at Chicago with both her Bachelor's and her Master's as a Gates Millennium Scholar. She has an extensive background in healthcare, sales. business operations, entrepreneurship and career advancement. Recently, she was featured in the MillerLite newsletter for her entrepreneurship while serving as a panelist. To learn more you can go to TrailblazingBusiness.com

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