Meet Women United member and Co-Chair of Heart of Florida United Way’s Women United Luncheon Committee Ana Carolina Salazar. Ana Carolina is also the CEO & Founder of BOLD Digital Marketing Studio, a local Hispanic marketing agency in Central Florida.
Q: When did you join Women United?
A: I joined last year after attending my first Women United Luncheon. I felt so inspired by their impact on the community and what they do for women that I immediately felt compelled to join the committee.
Q: What inspires you as a woman+ professional?
A: I always want to learn, grow, and work hard to achieve my goals. I want to serve as a role model and inspire other women who may experience barriers or challenges to understand that they can do anything! Being surrounded by the women who are part of the Women United Luncheon Committee has definitely been an inspiration to me. We have built an incredible professional network and always support each other through networking and other initiatives. In addition, I strive to positively impact the business community by promoting the importance of diversity and inclusion and creating a more inclusive environment so Hispanic women can see that there are opportunities for all of us, that they have a voice, and that they can make a difference.
Q: What’s your favorite part about being in Women United?
A: I love supporting women! I think it’s so important that we support each other, and we need to do it more. Being a part of this fabulous group of hardworking professional women is an honor because, at the end of the day, it’s not about us, it’s about something much bigger than ourselves. We are not just a committee but a group of women who are friends who come together in solidarity to support each other and make an impact in the community by sharing resources and providing opportunities. We do what we do because we care and find joy in giving back to others.
Q: What’s been your favorite Women United event/experience and why?
A: My favorite event was this year’s luncheon. We could see firsthand all the hard work the Heart of Florida United Way and the committee accomplished after many months of planning. Seeing this event come to life was incredibly rewarding. We surpassed our fundraising goal this year and celebrated with hugs all around. It was so powerful!
Q: What’s your favorite way to unwind?
A: I have several things that help me unwind. I love listening to music. I love nature and spending time outdoors, either by walking, going for a run, or enjoying a leisurely bike ride. I love watching “Friends.” I have been a fan for many years and always connect emotionally with that show. I love traveling and getting the opportunity to embrace and experience new cultures. I love hosting gatherings with my friends and family, as they are the ones that bring the most joy and happiness to my life. Finally, one of my favorite ways to unwind is engaging with my guests for my podcast, “Hablamos Spanglish.”
Q: What’s the greatest advice you’ve ever received?
A: I have several bits of advice that I have been given over the years that I have learned to implement in my day-to-day life:
- Follow your passion: This motto has encouraged me to make sure that I always pursue what I love, both personally and professionally
- Believe in yourself: This has been crucial in my life! It has helped me learn to adapt my mindset to understand that I bring value to everything I do. If you can dream it, you can do it, no matter what!
- Stay true to your values: Even in challenging situations, I have always stayed true to my values and morals and will never sacrifice my integrity.
- Be kind to yourself: It’s important to practice self-compassion and not be overly critical of our flaws and mistakes, as often we can be our worst critics.
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