by Shawn Nowlin
On July 22, the Latinas Network hosted another Lunch with Leaders event, this time featuring Professor Alexander Scott. An Associate Professor of Spanish at Virginia Western Community College, Scott is a well-respected educator who has won numerous accolades over his career, including being selected as the Donald G. Smith Endowed Teaching Chair.
The brainchild of entrepreneur Kat Pascal, the Latinas Network was born in Oct. 2020 primarily to consolidate people and organizations with a shared vision of supporting the Latin community. Iliana Sepulveda, Angie Hernandez, Elizabeth Mazon, Shannon Dominguez and Pascal, the Program Committee Chair, comprise the organization’s five Board members.
Lunch with Leaders is usually held on the third Friday of each month from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Williamson Road Library. Each luncheon provides a space where candid discussions can happen as community members work towards similar goals and learn more about each other. Previous speakers include Kim Whiter, CEO of Elder Care Solutions; Andrea Garland, Roanoke City Traffic Engineer; and Jennifer Dean, local Immigration attorney, among many others. Generally speaking, walk-ins are allowed.
What resources are available to the community? Where can people go to learn more information about the organization? How can members make a difference in the community? Such questions as these are broached at every gathering.
“We are focused on fostering economic empowerment of Latina Women by making resources readily available and bridging unique gaps,” Hernandez said. “Our three key areas of focus are business development, professional development and representation.”
Added Pascal, “The Hispanic community is undeniably driving growth and shaping the culture of the country. Our contributions are essential and have been consistent throughout the history of this country.
We are consistently creating more opportunities to build a community that supports each other and are always open to hear feedback. Every Board member is fully dedicated to our members and the community at-large.”
Just because the Latinas Network prioritizes the Hispanic community doesn’t mean individuals of different ethnicities cannot join the organization. In fact, explained Dominquez, everyone is welcome. Continuing, she explained, “we represent an opportunity to ensure Latinas are seen, heard and valued. But we welcome everyone with open arms. Representation absolutely matters and we want to highlight contributions and stories of those making a difference.”
Throughout the year, the Latinas Network supports various initiatives across the Roanoke Valley. Speaking on the significance of investing in the community through selfless gestures, Hernandez said, “every person living in the Roanoke Valley, regardless of background, can infuse positive energy in the community. We love doing our part in making this place a little better for everyone.”
For more information about the organization, visit https://latinasnetwork.org
