Making the Dreams of the Latinx Community a Reality

A gas explosion at his church forever changed Damian Rivera’s idyllic life. He realized he wanted to dedicate his life to helping his community, and left his job in the corporate sector to become the CEO of the non-profıt Association for Latino Professionals for America (ALPFA).

The transition into my role as CEO of ALPFA was made easier by the amazing network ALPFA has, called the ALPFAmilia. There has never been a more critical moment in my life to give back, and I am proud to be able to help the Latino community as we focus on taking action for a better tomorrow.

That is where I want to focus this message, on knowledge, network, and action. As the Latinx community continues to grow in influence across the country, serving in leadership roles in corporations and social movements, we need to make sure we are consistently focused on these three areas: knowledge, network, and action.

We need to continue to equip ourselves with the empowering knowledge of the impact we have in society, and the impact we have made through history. With each piece of additional knowledge of our history and our current impact, we gain strength to dream for something bigger.

To succeed for yourself and advance the Latinx community, you must start by taking action. Many will feel imposter syndrome when taking this step, and when you do, think back and remember your history. Remember that with all the challenges that you and your family has ever faced, you have always made it through.

The strength already lives in you. Allow your past to fuel your courage and compel you to take action to build a brighter future.