Cultural DNA and Hispanic Branding
This applies to the many Hispanic entrepreneurs she comes across as a leader/participant in the many programs shes involved with. She sees them as the future, laying the groundwork for further generations, something she credits to their cultural DNA. Like her, many of them come from humble backgrounds but have a spark passed down to them from their parents, grandparents and other family members, as well as their larger communities.
You might live in a small town and your father has a business, and then you either become part of that business or you launch something based on the needs of the community. Theres a risk-taking aspect to this, just as there are with immigrants. If youre willing to leave whatever country you come from behind to come here and start over, you likely have the key characteristics of any entrepreneur. You have to be a risk taker, she emphasizes.
She also notes that Hispanic women have a cultural brand of sorts, passed down through the generations. Unfortunately, many Latinas dont recognize this until people such as Hernandez point it out to themand how this brand can benefit them.
Family and relationship building is very important, and thats part of our brand. Were loyal, and again, thats part of our brand. We tend to be grounded in our values, and thats also part of our brand. When I point that out, thats when the light bulb goes on. Its like Oh, so you mean things that I do on a day-to-day basis and take for granted are valued by big corporations and clients? I say, Yes. Youre your best asset, Hernandez remarks.
Insight and Involvement
Given her insight into and active involvement in the Hispanic community, its hardly surprising Hernandez was nominated to become one of 12 recipients of this year’s Hispanic Women of Distinction in South Florida award. But thats just the icing on the cake.
The real distinction comes from knowing shes helping others to take advantage of everything they are to become the best they can be, whether its an entrepreneur or a Fortune 500 executive, she notes. Im personally rewarded and inspired by the Latina professionals, students and entrepreneurs who have the capacity to reach their fullest potential and shape the world of tomorrow.
Related articles:
Latina Entrepreneur LuLu Gets Her Just Desserts
Hispanic Roots and Designs on Chocolate
Chef LaLas the Consummate Hispanic Businesswoman
Latina Entrepreneurs Growing and Powerful