Hispanic Heritage Month: Passing the Torch

It's Hispanic Heritage Month!

This year, instead of reflecting on the past, I’m focusing on the future—the legacy I want to build for my children. As the Hispanic community continues to grow in the United States, so does our influence and responsibility. It’s not just about celebrating where we’ve been but about shaping what comes next for future generations.

Did you know that by 2060, the Hispanic population in the U.S. is projected to reach nearly?111 million, accounting for?28%?of the population? This growth highlights our responsibility to lead, contribute, and create a better path for the next generation.

Inspired by this year’s theme,?“Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together,”?I’ve been reflecting on what I want to pass on to the next generations—especially my sons, Arie and Rio (named after my 2nd great-grandfather, Claudio Rios). In a world full of complexity and division, I find myself returning to my roots, thinking about the values that will guide my children as they grow.

Here are the Latino values I hope to instill in my children and the next generation:

The Power of Community ????

Family isn’t just about who shares your blood—it’s about who shows up for you. In Panama and the U.S., my family always found strength in community. It’s about showing up for each other and lifting each other up. I want my children to understand that while independence is important, true success comes from building and relying on your network. Community isn’t just a safety net—it’s a launchpad.

Embrace Your Identity ??

Growing up in two worlds can feel like you’re always stuck in the middle—not?Hispanic enough, not?American enough. I’ve witnessed that tug-of-war but learned that our identity should be celebrated, not compartmentalized. I will teach my children to embrace their dual heritage with pride. They are the product of something powerful and unique, making them unstoppable.

Adaptability is Gold ??

Watching Latinos adapt to a new country, language, and culture has taught me that adaptability is a?superpower. I’ll pass on to my children the ability to pivot, shift gears, and thrive in changing environments. In a constantly evolving world, I want them to move confidently and embrace change rather than fear it.

Dream Big, Stay Grounded ??

My family came to the U.S. with a dream, always grounded in reality, hard work, and humility. I want my boys to dream big, but remember that success doesn’t just happen—it’s earned. It’s built on grit, hustle, and staying true to yourself. Dream as high as the sky, but keep your feet firmly planted.

Pay it Forward ?

The most important lesson I’ve learned is that success isn’t just for you—it’s for those who come after you. My family’s sacrifices made my success possible, and now it’s my turn to pass the torch to the next generation. I’ll teach my children that they must always reach back to lift others up no matter how high they soar. Success is sweeter when shared.

Looking Forward???? ????

As I think about the lessons I’ve gained as a Latina, I feel a deep responsibility to pass them on to my children. The world they’ll grow up in will look much different than the one my family experienced, but the core principles—resilience, community, and pride—will always stand the test of time.

In the spirit of this year’s Hispanic Heritage Month theme,?“Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together,”?I’m focused on the next generation—my sons—and how I’ll equip them to be the leaders of tomorrow. The torch is being passed, and with it comes the responsibility of carrying our heritage forward while shaping the future.

Here’s to raising the next generation of trailblazers, dreamers, and pioneers—starting with my two boys.

Ash Serrano is a marketer with 15+ years of in-house and agency experience and a knack for creating engaging written and creative content that performs. She has worked with major brands like Amazon, discovery+, Gensler, HGTV, Hulu, KPMG, Mondelez, Pizza Hut, Sugarbear Hair, Synovus, and the Kardashians. She specializes in executive personal branding, creative direction, and influencer marketing. She also owns a career services company, Fairy Career Mother , geared toward getting more women of color into leadership positions.

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