National Latina Day | Featuring Maria Martinez

Please tell us about your cultural background and heritage.

My cultural identity is Mexican American because my parents were born in Mexico, and I was born in Houston. I am a proud Houstonian! My parents moved from the state of Nuevo Leon after they were married and built their life in Houston. Growing up, our family enjoyed many summers and holidays in my dad’s hometown of Los Sabinos. I also had the opportunity to live there as an elementary school child in the 80s, which I consider to be the most memorable experience from my childhood!

How has your identity as a Latina shaped your personal and professional life?

My origins have shaped and equipped me with talents and capabilities. I bring to the table a sum of my life experiences, family traditions, cultural background, and life choices. One of the biggest things my heritage and culture taught me is to help others. It is something I saw my parents do and I carry that in my personal life by supporting and volunteering in my community, and in my professional life by advancing and developing others.

What traditions or cultural practices do you cherish the most?

Every year we have traditional holidays, such as celebrating Christmas with tamales, Easter with cascarones and Dia de los Muertos with an altar. Music is especially important during gatherings with friends and family, with Norteño music, cumbias, boleros, and polkas always part of the rotation.

Can you share a significant achievement or milestone in your career that you are particularly proud of?

My parents always inspired my sisters and I to focus on education and I am most proud of receiving my MBA. I’m the oldest of three daughters and we all received undergraduate and graduate degrees. My dad used to say before we were all married that he didn’t have grandkids but had six degrees on the wall. That was his unique way of saying how proud he was of his daughter’s educational achievements.

Please share a Latina role model who has inspired you.

From a professional standpoint, there were few Latina role models when I started working. I had an inner ambition and as opportunities came my way, I was exposed to incredible women more and more. Today’s workplace is abound with talented women of all backgrounds, which is wonderful to see. However, my greatest inspiration has been my mother. Her dedication to family and sacrifices inspire me to make the most of what I’m able to do in this world. She is a wonderful role model whose continuous support for my educational and professional goals have made it possible for me to dream big.

Can you share a story of a mentor or someone who has significantly influenced your journey?

I grew up with hard-working parents where integrity, honesty, and responsibility were the core of our values. My dad was also a great influence in my journey. He was a hardworking man with strong ethics and values. I saw in him the drive and determination to work hard and help others in need.

What message would you like to share with young Latinas looking up to you?

Recognize and celebrate the parts of your culture and background that have shaped you and leverage those experiences to do great things.