How to Lead with Courage: Insights from Latina Leaders in Austin

Walking into the Latina Leadership Summit I had no idea what I was in for. Hosted by Expedia Group's LEAD (Latinx & Allies for Development) and L500, a non-profit whose mission is to have more Latinas in the executive roles. I was immediately struck by the kindred spirits and connection in the room—so much vulnerability, care, and love throughout the summit.

The theme "Lead Forward" was woven throughout every conversation, alongside the powerful message of finding your community. Even when we get knocked down, we endure together—lifting each other up and providing mutual support. The question that lingered: How do we harness this momentum to continue moving forward and upward together?

These powerful and inspiring women talked about being your authentic self, the dance of forward, backward and side step movements in life and business. How to go where you want to go in your career, and believe in yourself when it seems like you won't ever get there. In this world of adversity, layoffs, hurts in the world, it was refreshing to come together and be inspired.

Leadership and Self Confidence

"Don't wait for permission to lead. Your voice, your ideas, your presence matters," said Fernanda Jordão, B2B Campaign Strategist of Dell Technologies. She implored all of us to tell ourselves daily, "I'm awesome." I believe in the power of intention, that self-confidence is beautiful, and that we should all work on uplifting our community.

Be in a Growth Mindset

We will never know everything, but we can always keep learning by seeking learning and development opportunities. Abby Diaz, Senior Product Marketing Specialist, Expedia Group, reiterated this with us and that the journey can be hard, but if we seek community, take time to rest and recharge, we will succeed in our endeavors.

The Courage to Be Disliked: Influence Without Permission

In Venus V. Piñeyro De Hoyos' breakout session, she began with, "If everyone likes you, you're probably not leading." She explained that in order to have true impact, you cannot care about what others are feeling or thinking to achieve that. Sometimes there are leaders we respect, but don't like.

We discussed focusing on what we can control–our energy and attitude, cultural differences that cause confusion, and how to create respect in the workplace. There was more than one lady in the room that's been told to stay in their lane, to stand down.

Venus challenged us by having us reflect if we act with courage or consensus, and to flex deliberately. Conflict means growth. When do you have courage to have a disagreement? If you confront conflict the first time it comes up, you could get better business results. We can still make an impact, with values of kindness, courage and creativity.

Speakers Sharing Actionable Advice

• "Include [Latinas & women] in spaces and ask questions!" - Marta Izarra, Senior Associate Consultant, Brand and Creative Strategy, Legend Labs
• "If you see a young person who needs help, help them up," - Abby Diaz
• Repost, elevate praise, share it out loud. Keep elevating your peers.
• Embrace curiosity and leave energized!

Join Next Year in Austin!

Being in that room was truly special—witnessing women get excited about lifting each other up, supporting women in sports, becoming financially savvy, celebrating being first-generation college graduates, and protecting the next generation. This summit created a genuine safe space where the audience shared their thanks, fears, and hearts openly.

I was moved by the mothers, sisters, colleagues, friends, and allies who filled the room, including women from Peru, Brazil, Spain, Mexico, Miami, California, New Jersey, and everywhere in between. The diversity of voices and experiences made the conversations even richer.

I'm already looking forward to next year—clear your calendar for this one! Special thanks to Militza Rosendo, PhD, Director of Latinas in Tech Austin for being instrumental in making this happen and for promoting this event so I could attend.

Ready to elevate your leadership journey? Connect with Nalo Seed for guidance on strategic growth, building courage in leadership, and developing authentic professional development strategies.