ALPFA: Transforming Lives, Empowering Leaders, and Building a Latino Legacy - Member Stories

For decades, ALPFA has been a trusted community for Latino professionals and students, helping them grow as leaders, build successful careers, and find a sense of belonging. Through the stories of our members, we see how ALPFA’s support has made a difference in their lives—helping them reach their goals and overcome challenges. Here, three members share how ALPFA has impacted their journeys in powerful and personal ways.

From Advocacy to Leadership: Erica Littlejohn’s Story

For Erica Littlejohn , being part of ALPFA for nearly two decades has been nothing short of life-changing. “My first ALPFA convention was the biggest networking event for professional and student Latinos I’d ever attended,” she recalls. “The energy, empowerment, and inspiration gave me the motivation I needed to pursue more in life—not just professionally, but personally.”

Erica highlights the pivotal role ALPFA played in helping her address workplace inequities. “At the convention, I learned about Latina equal pay and realized I had never advocated for myself,” she explains. Inspired by workshops and mentorship, Erica returned to work with a renewed sense of purpose. “I requested equal pay compared to my peers and received a 10% increase. Two months later, I secured a new role with a 15% salary bump. ALPFA showed me the value of my skill set.”

When Erica faced a layoff, ALPFA was there once again. “The support I received from my ALPFA family during my career gap was indescribable. Chapter leaders connected me with sponsors, helping me rebuild,” she shares. Today, Erica serves as EVP of corporate development for the Tampa chapter, forging new partnerships and mentoring others. “ALPFA provides a platform where leaders guide you to overcome challenges. I encourage everyone to join—it will help you grow your skill set, network, and opportunities in ways you can’t imagine.”

A Journey of Resilience and Reflection: Yaneth Walker’s ALPFA Experience

For Yaneth G. Walker , ALPFA has been an integral part of her career and personal development. “I am a product of ALPFA,” she states proudly. “From a student participant in case competitions to a senior investigations manager at Microsoft, my journey wouldn’t exist without ALPFA.”

Yaneth’s story is one of resilience and reflection. “I am a first-generation immigrant and the child of a single mother who came to this country with no English, no high school education, and five children,” she shares. “To walk into my first ALPFA convention and see other Latinos succeeding was eye-opening. It showed me what was possible.”

Over the years, ALPFA gave Yaneth the courage to embrace her authentic self while adapting to professional environments. “I’ve learned that adapting doesn’t mean changing who you are,” she says. “ALPFA mentors taught me how to balance my cultural identity with the expectations of corporate America.”

Reflecting on her two decades with ALPFA, Yaneth acknowledges its lasting impact. “ALPFA is not just a professional network—it’s a familia that supports and uplifts you. As I continue my journey, I’m committed to lifting others and ensuring they have the opportunities I was given.”

Rediscovering Identity and Community: Luis Sarmiento’s Perspective

Luis Sarmiento ’s ALPFA story began with a simple suggestion from his colleagues: join ALPFA and attend a convention. “At the time, I was the only Latino in my office’s tax group,” he recalls. “When I arrived at my first convention, it felt like coming home. I found a community that embraced me and showed me I belonged.”

Luis credits ALPFA with helping him overcome imposter syndrome. “For so long, I had worked in non-Latino environments and lost touch with my identity,” he shares. “At ALPFA, I met mentors and peers who helped me reconnect with my roots and gave me hope for the future.”

The impact of ALPFA extended to his family. “During the pandemic, my sister struggled with unemployment after surviving breast cancer,” Luis says. “I invited her to an ALPFA resume workshop, and while she didn’t get a job directly, it gave her the confidence to keep going. That’s the power of this community—it inspires hope.”

As a mentor and advocate, Luis now encourages others to join. “Whether you’re a student, a professional, or in transition, ALPFA is a platform that can change your life,” he says. “It’s about giving back and building a legacy for the next generation.”

Why Join ALPFA?

The stories of Erica, Yaneth, and Luis offer just a small glimpse into the many lives ALPFA has impacted. Their experiences show how ALPFA empowers people, builds meaningful connections, and inspires them to take action.

ALPFA is more than a professional organization—it’s a familia that supports, celebrates, and helps its members grow. Joining ALPFA isn’t just about building your network; it’s about discovering your strengths, finding your voice, and opening doors to new opportunities for yourself and those around you.

Ready to join the ALPFA familia? Sign up today and take the first step toward transforming your career and enriching your life.

If this story inspired you, don’t keep it to yourself—repost this article and share it with friends, family, or colleagues who could benefit from everything ALPFA has to offer. Together, we can continue building a stronger, more connected Latino community.