Tell Your Story: Inspire Dreams

Telling your story authentically, openly, and loudly is the thread that sows historically underrepresented communities together in cultural fabric that can withstand any division.

As I passionately advocate for the power of storytelling, my keynote, "Labels are for Jars," reflects my journey from defying societal labels of a poor illegal immigrant to thriving as an award-winning, esteemed professor and executive. But to tell it, it took a lot of looking in the mirror and shedding A LOT of bad advice covered in "mentorships." My responsibility to be SEEN by those who are climbing the 'corporate ladder' is bigger than my fear.

In a world where marginalized voices still struggle to be heard, my message underscores the transformative power of narrative. By sharing our truths openly and authentically, we not only validate our own experiences but also pave the way for others to see themselves reflected in the fabric of society.

Representation matters profoundly to me. While visibility is crucial, the resonance of hearing diverse stories lies in their ability to affirm our worth and inspire others to pursue their aspirations.

Empowerment emanates from owning our narratives. By reclaiming our voices, we assert our presence in spaces where our contributions may have been overlooked or disregarded. It's a declaration of existence and significance:

"I am here, and my story matters."

Storytelling serves as a catalyst for social change in my view. By shedding light on systemic injustices and barriers, we mobilize others to join us in the pursuit of equity and justice. Our narratives become rallying cries for action and catalysts for societal transformation.

Diversity of perspectives enriches our collective understanding, and I believe in amplifying voices from all dimensions of difference to challenge entrenched norms and foster innovation. It's a celebration of the kaleidoscope of human experiences and a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

Storytelling transcends mere communication; it's a vehicle for empowerment, enlightenment, and advocacy.

For those on the margins, sharing our stories is an act of defiance, resilience, and self-affirmation.

Let us continue to raise our voices, tell our stories, and shape a future that embraces the full spectrum of human identity and experience.

Thank You to the amazing talent from TLF; you inspired this post. I will always carry the words you shared;

'Your story helped me see that I could do it.'

'I have never felt so seen.'

' I was worried about talking about being an immigrant, and you made me feel proud.'

'You're Neurodivergent,' you said out loud.'

Yours Truly,

Adaluz J. Veloz

www.masdeuna.org

Next edition... Are we walking away from calling it DEI?...