In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, DHR is recognizing and celebrating the achievements and contributions of Hispanic and Latinx champions who have inspired others to achieve success.
We sat down with Gerardo Macias, Partner, DHR, and Mariana Ochoa, Associate, Jobplex to learn about their professional and personal insights.
Q: What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you, and how has your heritage shaped who you are today?
Gerardo: Hispanic Heritage Month holds deep significance for me as a celebration of the rich and diverse cultures that make up the Hispanic community. It’s a time to honor our history, traditions and the contributions of Hispanic individuals throughout history. Personally, my heritage has played a vital role in shaping my identity. It has instilled in me a strong sense of family, community and resilience. The values and customs passed down through generations have guided me in both my personal and professional life, reminding me of the importance of hard work, empathy and cultural pride.
Mariana: For me, Hispanic Heritage Month transcends mere celebration, but more so a recognition of the impact that our culture has had in history across the world.
Q: What advice (personal or professional) would you give others of Hispanic/Latinx heritage?
Gerardo: To my fellow Hispanics, I would offer the following advice: Embrace your heritage with pride and confidence. Your cultural background is a unique strength that can set you apart and enrich your perspectives. Stay true to your roots while pursuing your aspirations, and never underestimate the power of your diverse experiences. Take every opportunity to learn, adapt and grow—both personally and professionally. Remember that challenges are a natural part of any journey, and they offer valuable lessons that contribute to your growth. Lastly, always seek to uplift others within your community and beyond, fostering a supportive environment that allows everyone to thrive.
Mariana: On a professional level, I would say embrace your background and use it as an asset. The experience of uprooting from our native homes equips us with a remarkable capacity for adaptability, rapid learning, and resilience. Our diverse journeys have provided us the invaluable skill of effective communication and adept intercultural connection, enabling us to overcome language barriers effortlessly, which is crucial in our line of work.
Q: How do you plan on celebrating this year’s Hispanic Heritage Month?
Gerardo: More than celebrating – we should commemorate the importance of our heritage in our business culture worldwide. We have become leaders in different industries thanks to our high sense of responsibility and ability to engage with other minorities to learn, work and grow together.
Mariana: This year, we have chosen to expand our own knowledge of other Hispanic Heritages and cultures: as a family, we are cooking dishes from other Hispanic countries we have not tried before.