In The Community
You follow Latina tech influencers and entrepreneurs
Photo by June Aye on UnsplashYou know that representation matters, so you follow influential Latinas in tech like Ariel Lopez, founder of Knac, or Laura I. Gomez, co-founder of Atipica. Your social media feed is full of Latinas in tech because they remind you of what’s possible for you in your field of interest. When things seem stacked against you in whatever corner of tech or STEM you inhabit, those Latinas are your shining reminder that you can make it.
Your WhatsApp is full of family tech support requests
Photo by Vitaly Gariev on Unsplash
Latino culture is all about family, and being the tech-savvy one means you're the go-to person for all tech-related issues. Whether it's setting up abuela's new smartphone or troubleshooting your cousin's laptop, your WhatsApp is constantly buzzing with tech support requests from family members near and far. It kinda makes you feel like a genius, doesn’t it? It’s the little things…
You get excited about Latin American tech advancements
Photo by Christina @ wocintechchat.com on UnsplashFrom Mexico’s Silicon Valley, Guadalajara, to Brazil’s booming startup scene, you keep up with the latest tech advancements in Latin America. You know which countries are leading in innovation and which Latinx tech startups are making waves globally. What’s more, you love talking about it and sharing the news! It’s never not exciting to see your own community succeed in the same fields you’re passionate about.
You support Latino-owned tech businesses and tools
Photo by Christina @ wocintechchat.com on UnsplashYou’re always on the lookout for tech products and services created by Latino entrepreneurs. You also find ways to support Latino-owned tech businesses and tools in your community. Whether that’s by using whatever platform you have to spread the word or buying from them, you’re passionate about uplifting and celebrating Latino contributions in any way, shape, or form. You know it’s no small feat!
You participate in Latino tech meetups and conferences
Photo by Comunicaciones ANID on Flickr
Attending conferences like the Latinas in Tech Summit or participating in local Latina tech meetups is a regular part of your schedule. These events are not only networking goldmines but also opportunities to learn and share experiences with other like-minded women. They’re also opportunities to build friendships with like-minded people and uplift each other.
You use social media to advocate for diversity in tech
Photo by Christina @ wocintechchat.com on UnsplashYour social media platforms are not just for personal updates or showing your own work. You also use them to advocate for greater diversity in the tech industry, sharing stories, and celebrating the successes of Latinas and other underrepresented tech professionals. You understand the power of your voice and influence, so you use it for good and encourage others in the space to do the same. We have to look out for each other, don’t we?
You challenge misconceptions about being a Latina in tech
Photo by Christina @ wocintechchat.com on UnsplashTech can sometimes feel homogenous, so you bring your cultural perspective to the table every chance you get. This is a big part of how you challenge misconceptions about being a Latina in tech. You also advocate for change by supporting organizations that encourage Latinas in STEM fields and call out stereotypes both within your community and outside of it.
You share your knowledge with Latinas interested in STEM
Photo by Christina @ wocintechchat.com on Unsplash
Another good sign you’re a proud Latina geek is that you don’t gatekeep. You share what you know with other Latinas in STEM, especially young Latinas who show an interest in these fields. You directly or indirectly mentor others by sharing your knowledge, speaking about your experiences, providing tips, and bringing attention to the Latina figures in STEM who are often overlooked.
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5 Inventions You Probably Didn't Know Were Made by LatinasThe realm of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) and its broader variant, STEAM (which includes the arts), has often been a battlefield where women strive to make their mark.
In these fiercely competitive domains, the gender imbalance casts an imposing shadow, with men predominantly occupying the landscape. In this uphill struggle, Latinas confront an even steeper climb as they make up mere 3% of the STEM workforce. Despite this stark absence from stem careers, they have still managed to illuminate the path with their ingenuity, crafting inventions that deserve our attention.
Adversity has never managed to suppress the enchanting genius that Latinas bring to the worlds of STEM and STEAM.
While many are familiar with the ingenious beauty blender, a creation attributed to a Latina innovator, let's delve into the realm of lesser-known inventions crafted by Latinas.
Invention: Fast Dengue Fever Test
Inventor: Maria Angélica de Camargo
A low-cost and quick test for detecting Dengue Fever, which is a common disease in tropical countries. When Maria Angélica de Camargo, a Brazilian, saw the increasing need to differentiate Dengue from Zika, she created a much more specific and economical test. The Fast Dengue Fever Test is a big win in Latin American countries where health isn’t as affordable or accessible.
Invention: LIZA
Inventor: Ishtar Rizzo
Getting tested for STDs can be pricey and invasive. That’s where LIZA comes in. Co-created by Mexican engineer Ishtar Rizzo, LIZA detects STDs through a simple urine test, not only making it much easier to use but also more affordable than standard STD tests. We celebrate Ishtar for allowing Latinas to safely embrace their sexuality and take control of their health
Invention: Long-life nickel-hydrogen batteries
Inventor: Olga D. González-Sanabria
Probably your first thought after reading was “the what now?” Well, it’s a type of battery used for satellites that go to space. It was developed with the help of Olga González- Sanabria, and it’s now used for research done throughout space. Another Latina point for STEM!
Invention: Breast Pump System Using a Wall Vacuum Source
Inventor: Elena T. Medo
You know the breast pump with the Wall Vacuum, right? But did you know it came from yet another brilliant Latina? And it’s not Elena Medo’sonly patent related to breastfeeding, but it’s definitely one of the most well-known. Elena’s work is helping neonatal health constantly improve and helping our mamas keep their babies healthy.
Invention: Section 3 of New York’s High Line
Inventor: Isabel Castilla
Oddly specific. But yeah, the third section of the outstanding high line turned public park was designed and led by Isabel Castilla. Her work has allowed people to have a place to think, exercise, and just enjoy nature in the middle of the concrete jungle.
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- 5 Latinas in Tech You Probably Didn't Know About - Luz Media ›
