Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.
Our identity as Latino or Afro-Latino, often absent from the economic system and its symbols, is now being honored. We are witnessing the incorporation of one of the most iconic symbols of happiness, resilience, passion and dedication to her identity and work, Celia Cruz, into the core of our financial system with the introduction of Celia Cruz neighborhood.
Let's not forget that although we don't see much money these days and instead do almost everything with electronic money, coins are the fundamental representation and symbol of exchange in our economy. Every coin you have come across has an intrinsic value and a historical value that has immortalized many great names in history in a tangible and lasting way.
representation it is powerful, especially in areas where we often don't tend to imagine ourselves. Seeing the Queen of Salsa immortalized on a coin represents much more than just a tribute to her music. It is a statement that recognizes the importance of Afro-Latinx, Hispanic heritage and women's leadership in a financial system, furthering the development of women's entrepreneurship.
Here's how this pivotal moment matters for women entrepreneurs.
Your work has more impact than you may currently perceive
Cruz built a legacy in the music industry, elevating and transforming it in ways that set the tone for generations to come. Unfortunately, she left this earth before fully realizing the wider impact she had beyond her industry. This is a great reminder for us Black and Brown women entrepreneurs that our work often has far-reaching effects, far beyond what we might see in our lifetime.
This realization is so crucial to the path of entrepreneurship that it is also part of my financial growth framework as a BIPOC woman entrepreneur. You own your voice (literally, as Cruz did) and spread your message. Even when you can't see the immediate impact or results, know that change is happening—structures are changing and mindsets are evolving.
How can you apply it today? Think at least three generations behind you. What are the ways their lives are changing or being built to change for work like yours? We are not always aware of this, but awareness of this fact opens up a spectrum of motivation and opportunity with your business that did not exist before.
Cultural identity is a business strength
We all know Cruz for “¡Azúcar!” (Sugar!) and her love for “Cuba Bella” (Beautiful Cuba), because she never misses an opportunity to honor her roots, culture and beliefs. As a little girl, I remember watching Celia on TV with her vibrant wigs, stories to tell, beaming smile and sometimes that broken English that sounded just like her: authentic. She was definitely herself, embracing her identity with pride.
Not many platforms and media teach about the importance of this force in business success, but it did, and it is a critical lesson for our path as entrepreneurs – especially for BIPOC women. In a world where we have limited opportunities to see female leaders take a stand and follow in the footsteps of those who have succeeded, it's easy to overlook the very things that make us stand out.
How can you apply it today? List five things, at least, that represent who you are and want to do more of in your business or brand. Then, make scenarios where you can start incorporating them. It doesn't have to be drastic; you can start with the thing that takes the fewest steps to implement.
Double your gifts to flourish
We all have many talents, that's a given, but most of us have been at a crossroads between our gifts, our passions, and what we want to duplicate. However, deciding which one to pursue is critical to your entrepreneurial growth. In other words, as you've probably heard before, doubling your gifts is the way to go. Did you know that before fully committing to music, Cruz considered becoming a teacher? She even enrolled in the National College of Teachers in Havana. However, her passion for music eventually won out, making her an icon.
While you may have multiple talents and interests, doubling down on your gifts and what you're truly passionate about ultimately yields the best results.
How can you apply it today? Be aware of what you are doing and what you are good at passionate about, which has brought you business. Once you have the list, circle those things that you are so good at that, for example, you will still be doing it six decades later and have brought business growth to you. These are the ones you can start with.
Related: 5 women entrepreneurs share their top tips for finding your way to career success
Sometimes, we're the only women in the room—and that's okay
It's no secret that we are the only ones in the room in many spaces. This can be scary at first; it may even stop some from coming back and continuing to be part of the conversation, but as scary as it is to stand in the middle of a male-dominated industry, let's remember that this can be an opportunity to lead, influence and open the way for others. Cruz was the only woman in the All-Stars fandom and one of the few to succeed in the male-dominated world of salsa. She often stood alone in her field, but here we are, still learning from her legacy.
From her path, I've always understood that it's not about being in the room (it can start that way) but about owning the space, making your voice heard, and leaving a legacy that others can follow. So the next time you're in a situation like this, remember that those moments define it changers.
How can you apply it today? Prepare your mind to look for the room next time. Remember the last time you were the only one in that space? Go back in your mind and relive that moment from the perspective of being single and being okay with it. The test of the mind is just as powerful as a real-life situation.