What is your proudest accomplishment as a leader? 

Professionally, this is my fourth time as a tech startup founding member. I have had some accomplishments and learnings as a founding member that I am proud of, such as a few acquisitions and growing companies from Pre-Seed to Series B. Last year I founded Techqueria New Mexico (latinos in technology nonprofit), and this year I am a co-founder for NMClimate, a climate-focused community of entrepreneurs.

Personally, I have kept a sourdough starter alive for over a year now and bake a ton! Last year I ran a 10k, and this year I’ll be doing an 18-mile day hike down the Grand Canyon (the longest incline hike I’ve ever done).

What is the one piece of advice you’d give to other aspiring women leaders?

Just keep going and don’t let anyone hold you back from doing what you think is right. Have self-confidence, even when it’s hard, because you will always be your own biggest fan or biggest adversary.

What inspires you most about your work or your industry?

I always keep up with the times, whether that is in the technology I use, strategies I implement, or products I am building. I also usually work with mission-based companies that focus on accessibility to underserved communities. I am highly motivated to help others at a large scale.

Who is a woman from history (or your own life) who has inspired you, and why?

My grandmother immigrated from Mexico in the 1950s. It was a tough time to immigrate and the state was highly segregated at the time. She was told she couldn’t be herself, culturally and personally, and had to move with the times to get ahead. She was the first one in her family of nine kids to graduate from High School, and the only one to hold a career her whole life. She worked blue collar, but always maintained a good life for her family. She died in her early 70s, but I have very fond memories of her encouraging me to maintain my Mexican culture at home. She inspired me to be a strong woman, no matter what endeavors I take on or conflicts I come across.

In one word, how would you describe the legacy you want to leave as a leader?

I want to be a symbol of my group, both ethnically and culturally to others. I am a minority in my industry, especially when working in FinTech.

Share a favorite quote that motivates you.

Yeah, well, that’s just like, your opinion, man.