Latina Leader Spotlight: Raquel Gonzalez

Hello my beautiful Latina Creators! The moment I’ve promised since day one has arrived - our first Latina spotlight.

Background: Raquel and I met when we both lived in Dallas circa 2016 (pictured below), as two local Latina media personalities we were introduced and have followed each other since.

I was happy to hear she wanted to be a part of this platform as a writer so stay tuned for that, but first let’s get to know more about Raquel Gonzalez.

Q: What is your ethnicity, where did you grow up, where have you called home, and where do you currently live?

A: I am 100% BORICUA! Weeepaaaa! Could not be more proud to be a Rican to be quite honest. I was born and raised in Chicago, IL and have called Texas and Florida home. I am currently residing in sunny Miami. 

Q: What are you currently working on?

A: I am working on so much. I just took the leap from working in a corporate world to becoming a full time entrepreneur. It was scary but it was the right decision. I have started a multimedia company called Rock Media House. I can host your events, write your articles, handle your public relations, take your photos and so much more! 

Q: What piece of advice do you wish someone would have given you when first entering the workforce?

A: The piece of advice I wish someone would have given me when first entering the workforce is that you're going to have to fight many battles on your path to success. Just because you complete the cookie cutter path doesn't mean you'll be happy or successful. You're going to have to fight for it. People will doubt you, disregard you, take your ideas and run. You have to be strong enough to go through all of that and still come out winning. 

Q: What do you think is the biggest misconception about Latinas?

A: The biggest misconception about Latinas is we all love spicy foods! LOL -  We don't. My personality is spicy but I'm a sweet lover. On a more serious note, one BIG misconception about Latinas is that we are submissive. If we're not trying to screw everyone in our path, we must be the submissive one. Now more than ever, Latinas are educated, they're entrepreneurs and  empowered. So that means we are anything but submissive.

Q: What accomplishment are you most proud of?

A: One accomplishment that really comes to mind is a time when I worked with the Dallas Mavericks. I was able to cultivate an event for all women in media to come together and really connect. During those events, women from all facets of the media were able to discuss hard topics and make breakthroughs. It was beautiful. I had never been to an event like that, and other than mine, have not experienced it since. Some of those connections are still strong today. 

Q: Where do you draw motivation from?

A: I draw motivation from the pursuit of creating something from nothing. I didn't come from a wealthy family. I've done it all on my own. I am self-made. I want other Latinas to look at me and see themselves. 

Q: What do you wish to be remembered for/as?

A: I want to be remembered as someone who was honest, real and genuine; a person who fought to break all Latina stereotypes. 

Q: What do you want to see for the world?

A: This is a loaded question!

I want to see acceptance. Acceptance for everyone and everything; a world with layers of cultures and colors.

To follow Raquel’s journey be sure to follow her over on Instagram and stay tuned for more from her!