Celia Cruz Just Became the First Afro-Latina in the US — Here’s Why This Moment Matters for Women Entrepreneurs.

Our identity as Latinx or Afro-Latina, often overlooked in the economic system and its symbols, is now respected. We see the inclusion of one of the most prominent symbols of happiness, resilience, love and dedication to her identity and work, Celia Cruz, at the core of our financial system with the launch of the Celia Cruz quarter.

Let’s not forget that although we don’t see much money these days and instead we do almost everything with electronic money, coins represent it and the basic token of exchange in our economy. Each coin you have found has an intrinsic value and a historical value that has fueled many of history’s greatest names in a tangible and lasting way.

Representation is powerful, especially in fields where we don’t often put ourselves in the picture. Seeing the Queen of Salsa immortalized on a coin represents more than just honoring her music. It is a statement that recognizes the importance of Afro-Latinx, Hispanic heritage and female leadership in the financial system, furthering the development of female entrepreneurs.

Here’s how this critical period is important for female entrepreneurs.

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Your work has more impact than you can see right now

Cruz built a legacy in the music industry, elevating and transforming it in ways that set the tone for generations to come. Unfortunately, he left this world before fully realizing the wider impact he had beyond his industry. This is a good reminder to us black and brown business women that our work often has far reaching results, much more than we have seen in our lifetime.

This realization is so important in the way of entrepreneurship that it is part of my financial growth framework as a BIPOC woman entrepreneur. You own your voice (of course, as does Cruz) and spread your message. Even if you don’t see immediate impact or results, know that change is happening – structures are changing and concepts are evolving.

How can you use it today? Think at least three generations behind you. In what ways is their life changing or setting up to change a job like yours? We don’t always realize it, but realizing this fact opens up a whole host of motivations and opportunities for your business that weren’t there before.

Cultural identity is a business strength

We all know Cruz for his famous “¡Azúcar!” (Sugar!) and his love for “Cuba Bella” (Beautiful Cuba) because he never missed an opportunity to respect his roots, culture, and beliefs. As a little girl, I remember watching Celia on TV with her colorful wigs, stories to tell, bright smile and sometimes with that broken English that sounded like her: real. Undoubtedly himself, holding his identity proudly.

There aren’t many forums and outlets that teach about the importance of this power to business success, but he did, and it’s an important lesson in our approach as entrepreneurs – especially for BIPOC women. In a world where we have few opportunities to see women leaders rise up and follow in the footsteps of those who have succeeded, it is easy to overlook the things that make us stand out.

How can you use it today? Write down five things, at least, that represent who you are and wish you could do more in your business or product. Then, create conditions where you can start installing them. It doesn’t have to be difficult; you can start with what you need a few steps to use.

Double down on your gifts for success

We all have many talents, that’s a given, but most of us have been torn between gifts, passions and what we want to double. However, deciding which one to pursue is critical to the growth of your business. In other words, as you’ve heard before, doubling your gifts is the way to go. Did you know that before fully committing to music, Cruz considered becoming a teacher? He even enrolled at the National Teachers’ College in Havana. However, his love for music eventually won out, leading him to become a hero.

Although you may have many talents and interests, multiplying your gifts and what you truly love yields the best results.

How can you use it today? Be aware of what you know and love, which has brought you business. Once you have a list, circle those things that have been given to you so that, for example, you will continue to do them six decades later and bring business growth to you. Those are the ones to start with.

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Sometimes, we’re the only women in the room – and that’s okay

It’s no secret that we are alone in the room in many places. This may be scary at first; it may keep some from coming back and continuing to be part of the conversation, but as scary as it may be to stand in the middle of a male-dominated industry, let’s remember that this can be an opportunity to lead, influence and lead the way for others. Cruz is the only woman Fania All-Star and one of the few to succeed in the male-dominated world of salsa. He used to stand alone in his field, yet here we are, still learning from his history.

From his approach, I’ve always gathered that it’s not about being in a room (it might start that way) but about having a space, making your voice heard, and leaving a legacy that others can follow. So, the next time you are in a situation like this, remember that those times define changers.

How can you use it today? Prepare your mind to look for a room next time. Remember the last time you were alone in that space? Go back in your mind and remember that moment with the idea of ​​just being yourself and being okay with it. Mental practice is as powerful as a real life situation.