Latinos Participate in Leadership Anchorage by maría josé prieto
Latinos are leading with the goal of setting an example for future generations in Alaska and the surrounding areas.
In Alaska, Latinos are a significant presence in the community, and the Humanities Forum program, “Leadership Anchorage,” features a diverse group of individuals, including Latinos, who represent their ability to guide, lead, and advocate for the improvement of the state we call home.
Leadership Anchorage is a program designed to develop leadership skills, broaden knowledge and perspective, and strengthen the networks necessary to be an effective and compassionate agent of change in our city and in our state, as described by the Humanities Forum.
The group of Latinos that is part of the current cohort consists of Cindy Tapia Ruiz. She is originally from Sonora, Mexico. Growing up in Alaska, she has developed a special connection to her community, guided by her passion for a sustainable future for children, supported by her experience and training in human development. Her goal is to break down barriers to access for future generations, and inspire us to forge leaders.
Also participating in the program is Bedimar Jiménez, who is not only a prominent public health professional in Alaska, but also a proud mother of two children and wife. Originally from Maracay, Venezuela, she has vast knowledge and more than a decade of experience in public health education and program coordination, her current job as an outreach manager for the Alaska Cervical and Breast Cancer Screening Program, along with the fact that she is also pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences at the University of Alaska Anchorage, reflect not only her leadership, but also her determination to empower her community.
Finally, it is worth mentioning an honorary member of the leadership in Anchorage: Félix Rivera. He is originally from San Antonio, Texas, and came to Alaska in 2008 to study at Alaska Pacific University, where he graduated in 2011 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Liberal Arts with a focus on journalism. Every Tuesday, Felix participates in the Assembly meetings representing the Midtown district. His main objective is to achieve a more sustainable and equitable future for all Alaskans. In addition, he has volunteered with diverse communities, promoting justice for immigrants, equity for LGBTQIA+ communities, and social equality, among other causes. Felix is of Puerto Rican descent and is the second Latino elected to the assembly.
This is a clear example that Latinos are present in all areas. Leading with their heads held high. Little by little, changes are being made to help immigrants understand that they have rights and opportunities, even if it sometimes seems otherwise. In addition, Latinos are leading with the goal of setting an example for future generations in Alaska and the surrounding areas.
María José is originally from Mexico and studies journalism and communication at the University of Anchorage, Alaska. She is part of UAA’s gymnastics team.
