In The Community
We totally get the feeling of watching a random TED talk at 3am then walking around the next day with a whole new outlook on life - they’re just inspiring like that. The magic of TED talks is unmatchable. Some hit harder than others though, so we’ve gathered a few that as Latinas you’ll find yourself shedding a few happy inspired tears.
What’s missing from the American immigrant narrative by Elizabeth Camarillo Gutierrez
We know the immigrant experience is a hard path filled with obstacles, but those who haven’t experienced it might not be too familiar with it. In this inspiring TedTalk, Camarillo tells us her story of immigrating and what coming to the U.S meant for her. Camarillo points out narratives that tend to glamorize the immigrant experience while flying past the struggles that come with it, also sharing her knowledge on how we can help those around us through this experience.
How to live passionately - no matter your age by Isabel Allende
Legendary Chilean author Isabel Allende’s TedTalk candidly shares the fears she had and continues to have as she ages, but most importantly she shares how she doesn’t plan on letting age stop her from living to the fullest. This is a must-watch for fans of Allende, who inspires you beyond belief to live your best life at every stage of it.
My identity is a superpower not an obstacle by America Ferrara
Diverse, actor, director and activist America Ferrara knows how the world looks better than anyone. As she analyzes instances in her career, she delivers a clear message to Hollywood: you need to stop resisting what the world actually looks like. Ferrera shares the importance of seeing our world as it is displayed in our media, with different cultures and authentic representation. She says, "Who we see thriving in the world teaches us how to see ourselves, how to think about our own value, how to dream about our futures."
The story of Marvel’s first queer Latina Superhero by Gaby Rivera
Rivera is responsible for creating a completely different kind of superhero story, not only because she can punch portals into other dimensions but also because her modern story broke barriers in popular media. America Chavez, the character written about by Rivera, is a superhero with characteristics that make her so openly human, it’s hard not to relate. Rivera shares how her own life as a queer Puerto Rican in the Bronx inspired all the qualities that make the newest America Chavez adventures so relatable.
Keep your eye on the prize by Lucy Flores
Luz Media’s very own CEO Lucy Flores brings us this talk to encourage everyone to see how our small actions can make life altering differences in the lives of others. Here she retells her own life story where her parole officer changed the trajectory of her life, and how that was only the beginning of a story about resilience, tenacity, and courage.
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In a world where change is rapid, and ideas evolve daily, these five Latine speakers bring forward compelling stories that range from daring political critiques to comedic brilliance, all delivered with fervor and authenticity.
From confronting societal issues to delivering barrels of laughter, these talks guarantee not just information, but genuine engagement and inspiration. Dive in!
Miriam Zoila Pérez: How racism harms pregnant women -- and what can help
Miriam Zoila Pérez, a Cuban-American doula turned journalist, delves deep into the intersections of race, class, and illness. They focus on the alarming impact racism has on black women and their babies and advocates for a radically compassionate prenatal care program. Beyond their talk, Pérez has dedicated their life to highlighting these issues in various publications and has heavily influenced a generation of activist doulas through their work.
Rayma Suprani: Dictators hate political cartoons — so I keep drawing them
Cartoons aren’t just fun illustrations but powerful tools of dissent. Rayma Suprani, a renowned cartoonist from Venezuela, portrays how her cartoons act as a mirror, reflecting society's truths. For her fearless stance against totalitarianism, she's faced threats and exile. Yet, she continues to wield her pencil in defiance of dictatorship, proving that art can challenge the most potent of regimes.
Raquel Perez: Representation Matters: Latinx in Mainstream Media
It's a plea and a declaration: representation is crucial, and stereotypes must go. Raquel Pérez dives into the ongoing misrepresentation of the Latine community in media. As she rightly believes, it's high time for a change, and her talk champions a more inclusive and accurate portrayal of Latinx experiences.
Melissa Villaseñor: How I found myself -- by impersonating other people
Laughter is universal, and Melissa Villaseñor's journey into comedy epitomizes this. From mimicking famous personalities like Sandra Bullock and Dolly Parton to making history as the first Latina on Saturday Night Live, Villaseñor's career is a testament to the power of embracing one's authentic voice. Her talk is a roller-coaster of humor and insight, a blend of life lessons sprinkled with hilarity!
Isabel Allende: How to live passionately — no matter your age
Age is but a number when it comes to passion. Celebrated author Isabel Allende's talk serves as a heartwarming reminder that zest for life doesn't wane with age. As she navigates her own fears and uncertainties of growing older, Allende inspires listeners to embrace life with passion and enthusiasm, regardless of age.
