Raul Gonzalez > www.microsoft.com

Raul Gonzalez, Sr. Business Development Manager, Microsoft Corporation

Being Hispanic…Does it have any influence on your business?
Having a different background makes it easier to have a different point of view, different sensitivities. This is especially valuable when analyzing potential new opportunities and when interacting with other cultures.
I do not consider this a uniquely Hispanic advantage, but rather available to anybody who willing to open him/herself up and truly immerse into a culture other than his/hers.

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?
Challenges should not come unexpected. You need to devise a plan and have a course of action before you reach the point you need it. Granted, some situations cannot be predicted, but even then you need to have a broad idea of what to do in such cases; only then you’ll be able to make the right, and sometimes hard, non-emotional- decisions needed in moments of distress.
When things don’t go as expected, I stop and breathe, review what assumption(s) was/were incorrect, and make the best decision that I can at the moment; aware that my decision is only as good as the clarity of my goals and the quality and quantity of information that I have access to at that moment. Once the crisis has been adverted, I review and learn from it.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced?
Breaking out from the comfort of a “stable” professional life. There was one point in my career, when I was doing Software Engineering work, where my basic professional needs –income, life-balance, career trajectory, etc.- were covered; however something was not right. After some soul searching I realized I was very interested in the marketing and the strategic business aspects of the company and decided to pursue my MBA and do a complete overhaul of my career. 

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
I would have taken bigger risks and paid more attention to my intuition. 

What was your childhood ambition?
Be an astronaut.

Tell us about three people that you admire?
Sir Richard Brandson
Bill Gates
Pope Francis

For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?
Lunch.

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?
Time with family and friends.

What is your favorite quote?
“Nobody makes a greater mistake than he who did nothing because he could only do a little” – John Muir

Is it difficult to be unconventional?
It is not if you truly trust yourself; however it is impossibly hard if you hesitate and try to comply with the status quo.

Biggest mistake made?
Solely doing what I thought was right as opposed to what it felt right.

Do you consider yourself an innovator? Why?.
I have an Engineering background, and by definition engineers are innovators, they see the world and constantly find ways to improve it. For me in particular discovering new opportunities, devising new strategies or creating new products and offerings are activities that bring me a tremendous satisfaction in my life.

About the Company
Microsoft Corporation is an American multinational corporation headquartered in Redmond, Washington, that develops, manufactures, licenses, supports and sells computer software, consumer electronics and personal computers and services. Its best known software products are the Microsoft Windows line of operating systems, Microsoft Office office suite, and Internet Explorer web browser. Its flagship hardware products are Xbox game console and the Microsoft Surface series of tablets. It is the world's largest software maker measured by revenues. It is also one of the world's most valuable companies.
Source: Wikipedia 
Contact: www.linkedin.com/in/redgo/  http://twitter.com/raulgonz  http://blogs.technet.com/b/raulgonz/

Salt Lake City to host largest gathering of Hispanic business leaders

SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4 News) - The largest gathering of Hispanic business leaders in the nation takes place in Salt Lake City next week as the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce holds it's annual convention at the Grand America Hotel September 21st-23rd.

On Tuesday the President and CEO of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Javier Palomarez visited ABC4's studios and explained how the convention wound up here.

"Salt Lake City competed against markets like New York City, Miami, San Antonio, Houston and Los Angeles," Palomarez said. "In the end, Salt Lake City won."

It won because business is booming in the Beehive State.

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Houston most Hispanic part of country without Hispanic in Congress

Houston Hispanics had a reason to celebrate. They had won.

After decades of rapid growth in the local Latino population, Texas legislators had set up a new congressional district to elect someone from their community to Congress. The 29th congressional district, local Hispanic leaders said in August 1991, would send new breeds of Americans to Congress.

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Why Utah? Hispanic Business on the Rise

In 1847, Salt Lake City's founder - Brigham Young - saw the city and was immediately stricken by its natural beauty; the fortress of high mountains, the bright white snow, green hills, clear rapid waters, and a cool breeze that carried the majesty of all creation. Brigham Young saw that valley, and famously declared, "this is the place."

Brigham Young was right. And today, 167 years later, the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC) will make history again: Utah is the place for our 2014 National Convention.

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3 of World's Top 7 Billionaires are Latinos

The Forbes World's Billionaires.

It is the definitive list of the world's wealthiest people, profiling and ranking billionaires from 58 countries by their estimated net worths.

* net worth was calculated on March 2012
* source: Forbes

See full list here

Growing Entrepreneurship in Latin America

Creating an entrepreneurial society from nothing is not an easy task. Of course the idea of ‘an entrepreneurial society’ as separate from general business is slightly misleading. Everywhere in the world ambitious people strike out on their own by opening shops, starting businesses or becoming sole traders.

But the development of an entrepreneurial society focused on a start-up scene is a different variation. The creation of tech-hubs, cultural interest in entrepreneurs and government-backed initiatives for innovative new businesses are all indications of a more advanced start-up culture – something that many countries crave

Read article

Johnny Castillo > www.forafinancial.com

Johnny Castillo, Relationship Manager at Fora Financial

Being Hispanic…Does it have any influence on your business?
My Hispanic background influences my work at Fora Financial in that it allows me to connect better with Spanish-speaking people. Even though some Latino clients speak English, they feel more comfortable talking business and numbers in their native tongue. Additionally, the fact that I can communicate with more people allows our company to expand into areas that it wasn’t able to before.

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?
In the face of adversity, I lean on a mentality that was instilled in me to never give up on what you really want. Instead of focusing on the adversity at hand, it’s better to focus on the solutions to overcome the adversity.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced? 
The biggest challenge that I have faced was when my family and I moved to the United States. We did not know the language or anyone here. My parents gave up their life to come to this country to build a better life for their children. The lessons they taught me, especially the importance of education, is the reason that I have been able to face any challenge that has come my way.

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be? 
If I could change one thing about my life, it would be that I would have won the student body president race when I was in college. Coming to this country with my family as immigrants, we had to pave our own way and learn the culture of a new country. Determined to write my own story and become a leader, I ran for student body president. Even though I didn’t win, I felt it was important to put myself out there and show other immigrants attending college in America that they can be leaders. I am still saddened that I did not win because I think I would have been a strong voice and leader for my fellow classmates.

What was your childhood ambition? 
My childhood ambition was to be a professional athlete. Growing up in Columbia, I worshipped soccer, like many other children. Soccer was not just a pastime for my family and friends, but it was deeply rooted in our culture. I have always had a competitive spirit, which is why when I was younger I was drawn to becoming an athlete. As an adult, that completive spirit drives my entrepreneurial ambitions.

Tell us about three people that you admire?
Abraham Lincoln- He was a great leader and fought for equality. Without him, our history books might read a much sadder story.
Juan Pablo Montoya- He was the only Latin-American driver in NASCAR. This driver has entered and succeeded in his field where few other Latin Americans have.  
Albert Einstein- He was one of the most influential scientists of all time.  

For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner? 
I have always had a preference for dinner meetings. They are less rushed than the other two, and it's also more acceptable to add in a cocktail to discuss business.

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?
I only sacrificed my time in order to be successful at Fora Financial. I am an extremely motivated and driven person. My passion is working hard and finding success. I work daily with business owners that make sacrifices to keep their dream of owning a small business alive. My parents also made a sacrifice by moving to the United States so that my siblings and I would be able to pursue our dreams and find success.

What is your favorite quote?
“The most common cause of failure occurs when you sacrifice what you want most for what you want now.”

Is it difficult to be unconventional?
I think it is difficult to be unconventional. However, being unconventional means that one is thinking and striving to do things in better, more efficient ways. So while it is difficult, I’ve realized that being unconventional usually leads to greater successes, and that’s why I strive to be unconventional. Fora Financial can be viewed as an unconventional place to work. We are not a bank, yet we are able to provide funding to businesses of all shapes and sizes, and at a time where banks usually cannot and will not. Being unconventional has allowed the thousands of businesses with which Fora Financial works to grow and survive. I would say being unconventional is something of which to be extremely proud.

Biggest mistake made?
The biggest mistake I’ve ever made is not taking advantage of some of the opportunities that have presented themselves to me. One example of this is when I didn’t pursue my master’s degree in finance. I have learned from this mistake, and I try to pursue all the meaningful opportunities that come my way.

Do you consider yourself an innovator? Why?
I consider myself to be an innovator because I wanted to work for a company that was in its infancy, yet is growing exponentially each passing year. And this is exactly what Fora Financial is doing. The technology platforms that we currently offer are truly innovative and are constantly evolving, making it possible to help businesses around the country thrive. In a time where funding options can be limited for small businesses, Fora Financial’s mission is to grow the small business sector.  

About the Company:
Fora Financial offers flexible, working capital solutions to small businesses in need of financing to sustain or grow their enterprise. The Manhattan-based company places a high value on trust and transparency and provides businesses with quick, customized financial solutions utilizing its state-of-the-art technology platforms. Founded in June 2008, Fora Financial has provided more than $178 million to over 4,500 customers.  See more www.forafinancial.com

Beatriz Hartman > www.consolidatedcredit.org

Beatriz Hartman, Business Development and Community Engagement with Consolidated Credit

Being Hispanic…Does it have any influence on your business?

Absolutely! Being Hispanic has allowed me to reach far more people of many ethnicities.  The Hispanic population is so broad and diverse that being a Latina has helped me bring personal finance education and resources to people who may not otherwise received them - I’m proud of that.

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?

I always look at the positive aspect of any issue that I face. I try to look at challenges as something that will make me stronger, more resilient, bring new challenges and ideas/perspectives into my life. So I put up the fight and move on.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced?

I’m lucky; I don’t think I’ve had a challenge that has been difficult enough worth mentioning, but it was challenging to move to a new country by myself.   However, I had a clear goal in mind and I kept focusing on that goal so every time I felt homesick, I would think of my goal and the things I wanted to achieve.  I still miss not having my family near to me, but I have things that I need to achieve and goals to meet. 

In the professional arena, I have the challenge of constantly learning where individuals want to consume personal finances information and developing community outreach programs that connect to those audiences, regardless of their language preference. In 2013, for example, I was invited by Univision to be the expert on a series of Spanish TV interviews to discuss new credit card regulations to help Latino families understand personal finances so they can make the best decisions towards their financial health (check our YouTube channel to watch videos: www.youtube.com/ConsolidatedEspanol). We are always open to speak on TV and radio shows to educate the Hispanic community on personal finances.

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?

Nothing! I’m grateful for all I have.  I give thanks every day and just ask for more days to keep growing, learning and living new experiences.

What was your childhood ambition?

When I was a child I always dreamed of becoming a famous Broadway dancer. I remember watching them and I admired them! I love to dance maybe that’s why…

Tell us about three people that you admire?

My parents – I wouldn’t be where I am if I didn’t have their daily unconditional support, and guidance.  In a way I’m who I am today because of the love and the values that they taught me throughout my life.

Ellen DeGeneres – I’m an animal lover.  And I admire the fact that she not only is a great animal lover, but she also uses her fame to create awareness about animal rights.  She truly cares about animals.

The founder of Consolidated Credit, the company that I work for, Howard Dvorkin because he has helped hundreds of thousands of Latino families face and conquer devastating financial hardships and avoid personal bankruptcy. He also started the nonprofit organization at his kitchen table back in 1993 and today Consolidated Credit is one of the largest debt counseling and personal finance organizations in the country with sister companies in Canada and the United Kingdom. To date, Consolidated Credit has helped over 5 million in the past 20 years.  He is truly an inspiration by having a vision and passion to help people in financial distress and turning it into a large multinational organization.  

For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?

Healthy lunch J

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?

I left Colombia 16 years ago by myself to pursue my Master studies.  I was very young and decided to leave my parents, siblings and friends behind for my dreams.  It was hard at the beginning being in a new country because I had no friends and I didn’t know the city where my university was located very well.  I had to stay in a hotel for a month while I looked for an apartment that was close enough to school because at that time I didn’t have money to buy a car, but in the end the leap of faith was worth it!

What is your favorite quote?

“No dejes para mañana lo que puedes hacer hoy”

Is it difficult to be unconventional?

Ok if you are confident and believe in yourself.

Biggest mistake made?

I believe that mistakes always turn into opportunities to learn and to become better, so in a way, my mistakes have always taught me something that in turn has made me a better person and has made me the person who I am today.

Do you consider yourself an innovator? Why?

Yes, I believe that most Hispanics are innovators; culturally it is in us.  No matter where you come from, Hispanics are characteristically creative and always innovating because we are competitive and hungry for success.

About the Company:

Consolidated Credit (www.consolidatedcredit.org) is one of the nation's largest credit counseling and has helped over 5 million people over more than 20 years with financial issues. Their mission is to assist families throughout the United States in ending financial crisis and solving money management problems through education and professional counseling. Consolidated Credit also has a Spanish-language site (espanol.consolidatedcredit.org) for those of the Hispanic community that are Spanish-reliant or Spanish-preferred. 

Diana Valencia > www.porternovelli.com

Diana Valencia, Senior Vice President, Multicultural Communications, Porter Novelli 

Being Hispanic…Does it have any influence on your business?

Absolutely, I live and breathe multicultural. Being bi-cultural (growing up my family and I would travel to South America every six months, spending up to three months at a time) and bilingual has helped me to truly understand what triggers and motivates multicultural consumers. The ability to motivate and truly understand the consumer leads to transformation. Transformation leads to award-winning results.

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?

There is a choice not to?  Adversity is great.  It is what makes someone strong and successful. I’m so grateful for these experiences in my life. It has been these experiences that have made me stronger, successful and thankful for everything I have.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced?

Managing different stakeholders all at once, from clients, employees, colleagues, and partners and effectively communicating with them and exceeding a different set of expectations. But over the years I learned to master this skill, and turn a challenge into a strength. 

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?

Nothing!  I have everything anyone can ask for: health, a wonderful and supportive husband, loving family and friends. I’m thankful for everything in my life!

What was your childhood ambition?

To be an actress/singer

Tell us about three people that you admire?

My parents, for being such innovators, dreamers and for their dedication to giving back to the community. They emigrated from Colombia not knowing the language or environment and had to reinvent themselves. Their hard work and determination paid off and over time they became very successful.

Richard Branson, for being creative, a dreamer, a philanthropist and for never giving up.

Maya Angelou, for being a trailblazer, a thought leader and inspiration to women. She encourages people to seize “life by the lapels.”

For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?

For a meeting: Lunch

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?

It’s all about making daily choices to stay on the road to success. I always strive to participate and create new experiences and opportunities that will help me achieve my best. I never however forget to spend quality time with the people that matter most in my life.

What is your favorite quote?

I have many, but if I had to pick one it would be: Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world. ~ Harriet Tubman

Is it difficult to be unconventional?

Being unconventional is what sets you apart! To lead an exceptional life, one must be willing to take the road less traveled…and to paraphrase Robert Frost, that will make all the difference!

Biggest mistake made?

Not moving quicker and early in my career, being afraid to make myself heard. We must never compromise who we are merely for the sake of sensibilities!

Do you consider yourself an innovator? Why?

Absolutely, innovation is key to building businesses and programs that target the multicultural consumer. Certain products and services have a limited awareness in this market segment, so I have had to create innovative product offerings, services and experiences that motivate consumers to embrace new brands. 

About the Company:

Porter Novelli is one of the world’s leading public relations agencies. With 90 offices in nearly 60 countries, Porter Novelli delivers best-in-class service to clients around the globe. As the agency that pioneered social marketing, Porter Novelli’s heritage is grounded in influence – motivating people to change deeply ingrained behaviors that are rooted in cultural and social norms. This is achieved by identifying and activating against key insights that drive transformational change-- going beyond just “solving a problem”. The result is greater than just influencing people – Porter Novelli makes them believe.

For additional information, please visit www.porternovelli.com

Porter Novelli is a part of Diversified Agency Services, a division of Omnicom Group Inc.