The Power of Community: Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month

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At Schneider Electric, we are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and diverse environment. Our commitment to inclusivity encompasses a holistic approach involving leadership, employees, communities, and stakeholders. We are proudly celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month through a variety of in person and virtual events. Hear from our employees and join us as we celebrate and embrace diversity.
Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated every year from September 15^th – October 15^th. It is a time to reflect, celebrate and highlight the significant contribution of Hispanic and Latinx individuals and their impact within our society.

During Hispanic Heritage Month, we come together to celebrate the history, achievements, traditions, and significant contributions of those in the Hispanic and Latinx communities. Celebrating these communities brings people together, fostering a sense of unity and belonging. It provides an opportunity for individuals to connect, share their stories, and celebrate their heritage collectively.

Celebrating our heritage

As a first-generation Latina, reflecting on Hispanic Heritage Month brings to mind the values of family, hard work, and resilience that inspire many of us and contribute significantly to our success at Schneider Electric.

My cultural background has profoundly influenced my professional growth, instilling in me a strong sense of community, resilience, and adaptability. These traits have shaped how I engage with my teams and navigate diverse work environments, enabling me to thrive and contribute meaningfully to our collective goals.

Unity and support play an essential role in our culture. Personally, one of my favorite sayings that I grew up with in my community is “siempre temenos que darle la mano a otros (we always need to lend a hand to others)”. It’s a reminder that we must lend each other a hand, fostering a community where everyone feels valued and supported. Together, we can build a brighter future, where we can uplift one another as we rise.

Employee groups create a more inclusive workplace

Schneider Electric’s Employee Resource Networks (ERNs) are employee-led groups that provide support, networking, and professional development opportunities for employees with shared interests, backgrounds, or affiliations.

Our Hispanic Professionals Employee Resource Network (HPERN) is for individuals within Schneider Electric who identify as Hispanic/Latinx/Afro-Latin/Chicano or those interested in exposure to Hispanic culture and community. The HPERN integrates development and awareness into their members by celebrating Latinx American Heritage, outreach to universities and STEM programs, and professional career development lunch and learns.

The HPERN’s goals focus on:

• Professional development
• Exposure
• Community outreach
• Mentorship

Many of our members join the HPERN because they want to be part of a community that uplifts and supports one another. Personally, throughout my life, I have always had a passion for personal development and outreach and as I joined the corporate world I wanted to find a balance between work and outreach opportunities such as mentoring, volunteering, and driving change. What I like most about the HPERN is that we don’t only focus on ERN Schneider Electric employees, we seek to empower our communities by hosting STEM camps, funding scholarships, and more.

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month

By celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, we honor the vital role that Hispanic and Latinx communities play in shaping our society and promote a more inclusive environment. Through our celebrations, we:

• Honor achievements: We recognize the accomplishments of Hispanic and Latinx individuals who have made lasting impacts on our world. We also recognize the significant contribution of our employees who have impacted this organization. 

• Promote diversity: We embrace the diversity that enriches our communities and learn from different cultural perspectives.  

• Foster unity: Strengthen the bond among all communities by appreciating our shared history and experiences. 

• Preserve traditions: Celebrate the customs, languages, and traditions that have been passed down through generations. 

• Share stories: We elevate the voices in our community, sharing their success, and enhancing a sense of community and belonging.

When people share their stories, they reclaim their narratives and assert their identities. This empowerment can inspire others to share their own stories and contribute to a collective sense of pride and resilience.

This month at Schneider…

During Hispanic Heritage Month, we aim to empower our employees to build alliances, drive change, and support intersectionality. By engaging in meaningful conversations, showing up as allies, and learning about the experiences of the Hispanic and Latinx community, we can empower our communities to rise together.

I’m excited about all the great events we have this month to celebrate, including a virtual cooking class, leadership panel, film event, and more. It’s wonderful to learn about the culture of my colleagues and share our stories.  These events are open to all, encouraging allyship, providing professional development opportunities, and expanding your network.

Sharing the stories of our employees

We are proud to highlight members of the Hispanic Professional Employee Resource Network (HPERN) who play a crucial role in our success. Read more about our HPERN members and their inspiring stories below.

Lily Scott, Inside Services Sales Development Program & Mentorship Program Director for the HPERN

Lily’s journey with the HPERN began as a Spanish speaker looking to engage with more community engagement opportunities. Today, she’s an integral part of this inclusive and supportive network, driven by a shared commitment to personal and professional growth. She shares, “I love being part of such a welcoming group that is committed to investing in each other!”

Mentorship has been transformative for Lily, and she’s thrilled to spearhead the 2024 HPERN Mentorship Program. This initiative spans nine countries, pairing mentors and mentees for enriching monthly learning sessions, leadership insights, and networking opportunities.

Rosa Valdez Parks, Sr. Offer Industrialization Leader & HPERN Member

In Rosa’s words: “Hispanic Heritage Month always fills my cup and overflows! The work that the HPERN does is so appreciated and valuable! I am so grateful to not just be a part of this community, but to also have it to support and grow.”

Rosa’s family emigrated from Paraguay when she was 3 years old to Missouri, an area with a very small Latin/Hispanic population. However, at Schneider Electric and through the HPERN, she has found an amazing opportunity to reconnect with her culture, an unexpected and cherished aspect of her work experience.

Rosa is thankful to collaborate with incredible allies and support the HPERN, benefiting from the collective efforts. She takes pride in the HPERN’s role as an empowering platform for the Hispanic community.

Selvana Rouman, Customer Delivery Experience Project Manager & HPERN Member

The HPERN proudly welcomes all employees no matter their cultural background. Dedicating two years to volunteering with HPERN, Selvana’s involvement began with showcasing the rich and diverse cultures of Latin America. Over time, it transitioned to spotlighting the Latin American members of the SE community. It has been a gratifying experience for her to learn from, listen to, and share the stories of numerous individuals.

Selvana shares, “While not Hispanic myself, I’ve found profound reflections of my cultural experiences within Hispanic cultures. Witnessing people’s enthusiasm in sharing their rich heritage, forging friendships, and offering music, cuisine, and warm smiles brings me immense joy.”

Selvana’s recent travels across Latin American countries deepened her admiration for the vibrant tapestry of life she encountered. Through these experiences, she realized that, essentially, “we’re all living the same life” in various manifestations. This realization fostered a deeper sense of humanity, greater openness and acceptance toward others, and a newfound freedom to express her true self. It’s been a transformative journey of cultural appreciation and personal growth, and she’s grateful for the lessons learned.

Mirna Garza, Standardization Program Manager & Activities Director for the HPERN

Mirna is a passionate leader making a meaningful impact at Schneider Electric. As the Activities Director for the National Hispanic Professionals Employee Resource Network (ERN), Mirna spearheads events and programs for the group. These activities promote professional growth, understanding, and belonging for all. Her strategic vision and leadership skills are evident in her role, mirroring the dedication she brings as a Standardization Program Manager, where she meticulously plans, monitors, and communicates program goals and metrics.

Mirna’s commitment to sustainability aligns seamlessly with Schneider Electric’s values, allowing her to infuse purpose into everything she does for the betterment of the planet and its people. Her dedication to fostering a positive work environment and driving impactful programs embodies the spirit of #SEGreatPeople.

Mirna shares, “Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to honor the contributions of Hispanic and Latin individuals and how our culture shapes us. My culture has influenced my strong work ethic, empathy, and selflessness, driving me to deliver the best results for our team and customers.”

Ana Ruiz, Territory Account Manager & Director of Communications for the HPERN

Ana’s journey as a first-generation individual has instilled in her a strong work ethic and an unwavering determination to overcome obstacles in pursuit of her goals. Her deep-rooted connection to her culture has fostered a spirit of resilience and solidarity, empowering her to uplift others while forging her own path to success.

Since joining Schneider Electric over two years ago, Ana found a sense of community and belonging by becoming a part of the Hispanic Professionals Employee Resource Network (HPERN). She shares, “I joined the HPERN because I was seeking a community and connection with Hispanic professionals. As a first-generation graduate, navigating the corporate world was a new challenge for me, and joining the HPERN has been instrumental in my growth.” 

As the Director of Communications for HPERN, Ana plays a pivotal role in amplifying the vibrant Hispanic Heritage Month events and initiatives, showcasing her dedication to fostering inclusivity and celebration within the workplace. Ana’s involvement in HPERN has not only expanded her professional network but has also provided her with invaluable experiences and lasting friendships. Her passion for personal and professional growth is truly commendable, reflecting the spirit of empowerment and unity that defines Schneider Electric’s diverse and inclusive culture.

Giselle Richardson, Talent Acquisition Consultant & HPERN Member

Giselle’s journey at Schneider Electric has been enriched by her involvement in the Hispanic Employee Resource Network (ERN), where she found a community reminiscent of her own ethnic background. Her upbringing in a tight-knit Hispanic family has instilled in her the value of togetherness and support, and she has found these same qualities within the Schneider Electric community.

She shares, “Hispanic Heritage month is a chance to celebrate all the different Latino cultures. I enjoy being able to connect with my colleagues across all the different Hispanic countries during this time. It’s an opportunity for us to come together and feel united and excited to learn about our differences and similarities!”

As an enthusiastic advocate for the ERN, Giselle encourages new hires to join the group, recognizing the importance of fostering connections and finding a sense of belonging within the workplace.

Evila (Evi) Melgoza, Web Giants Project Manager & HPERN Outreach Lead (Nashville)

Evila thrives in her role as a web giants project manager, finding fulfillment in both strategic planning and hands-on tasks. Having lived in three different countries during her time at Schneider Electric, Evi cherishes the diverse experiences and global perspective the company has provided her. Notably, her influential work includes designing and implementing the first model shop for engineering prototypes at the Monterrey Design Center.

Evi joined the Hispanic Professionals Employee Resource Network (HPERN) to connect with her Hispanic colleagues and celebrate the richness of Hispanic culture and traditions together. Her commitment to community shines through her leadership as outreach activity leader for the HPERN Nashville chapter. In this role she actively fosters alliances with key Hispanic non-profits, driving initiatives in volunteering, donations, and scholarships. Evi’s dedication to community progress is inspired by the words of César Chavez, “We cannot seek achievement for ourselves and forget about progress and prosperity for our community.”

Celebrate this month!

Thank you to all our employees striving to create an inclusive workplace where all voices are heard and valued. Together, let’s advocate for the continuous progress of the Hispanic and Latino community and celebrate their accomplishments.

If you’re an employee, join the HPERN today as a member or an ally!  If you’re an external reader, I encourage you to take this month to learn about the rich history and contributions of the Hispanic community. Engage with local events and explore the diverse cultures that make up this vibrant community. Together, we can celebrate and support the values of diversity and inclusion.

Learn more about Schneider Electric

Schneider Electric offers many other Employee Resource Network communities that are built to support and celebrate all employees. ERNs focus on a wide range of topics such as gender diversity, LGBTQ+ inclusion, sustainability, cultural diversity, and more.

Learn more about Schneider Electric Diversity, Equity & Inclusion initiatives and policies.

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