A panel on Latinas in Business and Leadership was hosted via Zoom on March 7th by Bakersfield College’s Women’s History and More Committee (WHAM) and Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (KCHCC). In honor of celebrating Women’s History Month, BC’s WHAM committee has curated a series of events celebrating women throughout history.
This was the first event to shed light on women’s accomplishments. It included guest speakers, Nicole Alvarez, BC’s Program Director of Student Life. Sonia Arreguin, Clinical Director of SJET Clinical Services. Dr. Olga Meave, Chief Executive Officer of Clinica Sierra Vista. Beatriz Trejo, Lawyer and Certified Legal Specialist at Chain|Cohn|Clark and Gabriella Mello, VP. Community Development Officer at Citizens Business Bank. The panel was hosted and created by faculty coordinator, Olivia Garcia, Professor of History and Chairwomen of the KCHCC. It was also hosted by President/CEO of KCHCC, Jay Tamsi.
Professor Garcia asked the panelists a series of questions followed by a Q & A from the viewers.
All panelists shared their upbringing, families, motherhood, marriages and amazing journeys that got them to where they are today.
When asked what challenges one faces as a Latina in any profession, Gabriella Mello stated, “In the corporate world, its male dominated and it can be intimidating, but regardless of where you come from, be proud and have confidence.” Sonia Arreguin added, “Failure can never be an option.”
Beatriz Trejo encouraged viewers and stated, “I was such a minority attending school in Ohio, but I took that as an opportunity to learn. You can only miss the shots you don’t take.” Dr. Olga Meave also stated, “You have to love whatever you do and enjoy your work.”
The panels’ Q & A was flooded with numerous questions from viewers. Nicole Alvarez encouraged students to take care of their mental health and never be afraid to take advantage of the resources provided by BC’s Student Health and Wellness Center.
As BC celebrates women breaking barriers all month long, be sure to view WHAM’s library book display at BC’s Grace Van Dyke Library all month long and attend their next event at the Levan Center on March 12th as they celebrate Voices of Female Scholars at Bakersfield College.