21st LATINAS & POWER SYMPOSIUM empowers Latinas

The 21st Latinas & Power Symposium, held on May 30, 2024, in Hartford, Connecticut, convened over 600 Latinas for a record-breaking event. This prominent New England conference featured inspiring speakers, panels, and breakout sessions, fostering an empowering atmosphere of shared experience and professional development. The symposium served as a platform for Latinas to connect while celebrating their culture, heritage, and achievements.

“The exhilaration and sense of fulfillment I experienced during the largest Latina symposium of its kind in New England is indescribable,” stated Marilyn Alverio, Founder and CEO of Latinas & Power Corp. “The profound sense of pride they felt, underscores the necessity of such platforms. Across the U.S., numerous remarkable Latina organizations are also making a significant difference. We are beyond thrilled to be a part of this important national movement that brings attention to the fact that we remain overlooked and underrepresented in leadership roles across the country.”

The Latinas & Power Symposium opened with a welcome from board chair Marilyn Cruz-Aponte and Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz. Keynote addresses were delivered by board director, and author of Embrace the Power of You Tricia Montalvo Timm and Aida Rodriguez, comedian, actor, and author of Legitimate Kid. Senator Richard Blumenthal was also in attendance. All three delivered poignant messages that resonated with attendees. A Latina Power Panel included the Executive Director of the White House Initiative Advancing of Educational Equity, Excellence and Economic Opportunity, Melody Gonzales and Sindy Bendavides, the CEO of Latino Victory, a national organization dedicated to building Latino political power at state and federal levels. The panelists ignited action, urging attendees to vote and advocate for their communities. The event also featured five sessions covering diverse topics ranging from finance to entrepreneurship.

The Symposium also served to acknowledge inspiring Latinas, presenting awards to Nelba Marquez-Greene, Sheila Coon, Maritza Bond, Veronica Y. Maldonado, and Maria I. Rodriguez. Latinas & Power Corp.’s 6-month Latinas in Leadership Institute’s (LiLi) program graduated its first cohort of 15 women at the Symposium’s close. They received certificates and citations from Senator Blumenthal’s Office and Latino legislators of CT: Joe Rodriguez, Hilda Santiago, and Geraldo Reyes, who appeared on behalf of the state. Open now are applications for Cohort 3 beginning in September of 2024. Please go to www.latinasandpower.com for the form.