A statewide loss could have ended a public career. Instead, it clarified one. In 2022, after years of momentum and marquee endorsements, Anna ran for Illinois Secretary of State—and lost. “When you fail publicly, that can really set you back,” she says. “I was embarrassed. I didn’t want to face the people who believed in me.” What came next was not retreat, but reset.

Who is Anna? Chicago’s City Clerk since 2017, elected to full terms in 2019 and 2023. She oversees an office that serves 1.2 million people and moves major revenue for the city. Before Clerk, she helped pass police accountability measures, stabilized pension funds, and launched “Chicago is With You,” the city’s first legal protection fund for immigrants and refugees. The resume is long. The through-line is service.

The turning point wasn’t only political. It was personal. She had a baby in April 2020—at the height of the shutdown—then jumped into a statewide race when her daughter was nine months old. “I put so much time and energy… and I thought, okay, I’m going to win. Well, I lost.” That sting pushed her closer to faith and discipline. “My friends and family put a mirror in front of me,” she says. “Then I really had to get back into my prayer and worship time.”

Her daily framework is simple and repeatable. “I journal three things of gratitude every morning,” Anna says. She protects sleep—seven to eight hours, non-negotiable. She puts her phone in another room at night. “I’ve done this for two and a half years now… I try in the morning not to check my emails first thing. I get a workout in, then ease in.” It’s not productivity theater. It’s guardrails for a high-stakes job.

On work and family, Anna rejects a split she considers unrealistic. “I don’t believe in work-life balance… I believe in work-life integration,” a principle a mentor passed on. That can look like bringing her daughter to community events and making it a “mommy and daughter day.” It can also look like planning joy with the same rigor she schedules meetings. “You have to plan for it like you plan to see the doctor,” she says. Coffee with friends. A service on Sunday. A Friday afternoon hang. The point is to put joy on the calendar, not hope it appears.

Tactics you can use this week: set a five-minute gratitude practice; move the phone out of the bedroom; protect one night for real rest; and schedule one small joy block. If you manage a team, normalize these moves. Ask for one joy plan in one-on-one check-ins. Treat recovery like revenue—because it protects your voice, your decisions, and your energy.

The public results are tangible. As Clerk, Anna leads City Council modernization, including e-voting, to increase transparency and speed. She built CityKey, a municipal ID that has served tens of thousands of residents. She launched Next Gen City Council, where high school students from across neighborhoods write and debate ordinances; the top vote-getter is introduced to the real council. She also convened a Status of Women and Girls working group that issued 22 recommendations—“the Pink New Deal”—with half implemented so far, from better responses to gender-based violence to age-appropriate education on safety and consent.

But the deeper result sits inside her decision to stay. After wrestling with whether to leave public life, the answer she heard in prayer was one word: stay. “Lead where you are right now,” she says. “Find a problem… and tackle it.” That’s a cue for anyone in growth mode. You don’t need a title to make change. Start with the block you live on, the team you run, the clients you serve. Local action compounds.

How to transfer her playbook to your work: define a two-line morning routine you can do every day; turn one recurring task into a teachable moment for the next generation; and ship one concrete improvement to how your team makes decisions (fewer steps, more visibility, tighter timelines). Keep it extremely practical. If it can’t be scheduled or measured, it won’t stick.

At 40, Anna named her year. “Forty is freedom,” she says. “I’m tired of putting limitations on myself. I want to speak honestly and truthfully… without fear.” It’s a clean filter for choices: does this build boldness, or shrink it? Does this align with faith, or fight it?

The line that lingers comes near the end: “Be bold, take the risks and keep the faith.” It’s not a slogan. It’s how she got up after a loss, reset her habits, and recommitted to the hard, local work of making a city function better.

If you care about outcomes—sales, brand, policy, or team culture—adopt the tempo: gratitude before email, phone out of the bedroom, joy on the calendar, and one local problem you will personally own. Do it for a month. Watch what shifts. Then do it again.

Nallely Suárez Gass has spent her life challenging norms, embracing opportunities, and building meaningful connections. Raised in Chicago to Mexican parents, Nallely grew up understanding the importance of adaptability and resilience. Her journey, from the west side of Chicago to co-founding Drop Needle Drinks, is a story of determination, cultural pride, and fearless ambition. Today, her wine-based ready-to-drink cocktail brand is redefining what’s possible in a competitive market, all while staying rooted in quality and authenticity.

Growing up in Chicago’s vibrant cultural mosaic, Nallely’s early years were filled with family gatherings and rich traditions. Everything changed when her family moved to a predominantly white neighborhood during her childhood. This shift made her hyper-aware of her identity as a Latina, shaping how she navigated the world. In high school at Lane Tech, she found a sense of belonging through cultural clubs like Hola and Aspira, which celebrated the diversity within diversity. "Chicago is a bubble of diversity," she says. "You don’t realize how special it is until you leave." These formative experiences laid the foundation for her confidence and cultural pride.

While pursuing her degree at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), Nallely discovered a love for problem-solving through econometrics—a mix of economics and statistics. Her passion for analyzing complex systems carried her into a thriving corporate career at PepsiCo and Molson Coors, where she honed her skills in sales and strategy. But what truly set her apart was her ability to cultivate relationships. “Cheerleaders are everything,” she says. “Focus on the people rooting for you, and don’t waste energy trying to win over the naysayers.”

Despite her success in the corporate world, Nallely always had an entrepreneurial spirit. In 2019, she launched two businesses simultaneously: a consulting firm and a trucking company. “I was scared one of them might fail, so I started both,” she admits. While the consulting business allowed her to focus on leadership development, the trucking company thrived during the pandemic, employing over 130 people at its peak. “One of my proudest moments was helping my team support their families during such a challenging time,” she says. The experience taught her flexibility, grit, and the importance of asking for help when needed.

The idea for Drop Needle Drinks emerged from a collaboration with four former colleagues from her time at Molson Coors. While Nallely joined the team last, she quickly became integral to the brand’s success, leading sales and market strategies. “We all have our silos of expertise, and we respect each other’s strengths,” she says. Drop Needle Drinks stands out with its wine-based cocktails made from natural ingredients sourced from a family vineyard in Paso Robles, California. The flavors—crafted with real juices—are a reflection of the team’s commitment to quality.

Entering a crowded market didn’t faze Nallely. “It’s crowded because there’s demand,” she explains. “If you believe in your product and know what makes it unique, go for it.” She emphasizes the importance of differentiation, pointing out that the ready-to-drink cocktail market is one of the fastest-growing segments in the beverage industry. “Our goal was to create something that feels fresh, approachable, and delicious, and I think we’ve done that.”

For Nallely, working with her co-founders has been a masterclass in teamwork. “You have to have clear expectations and hold each other accountable,” she says. “We’re all betting big on this, so respect and trust are key.” She believes that successful partnerships stem from understanding and appreciating each person’s role. “I don’t try to micromanage the creative aspects because that’s not my area of expertise. I focus on what I’m good at and trust my team to do the same.”

What sets Drop Needle Drinks apart isn’t just its high-quality ingredients but the heart behind the brand. For Nallely, seeing the product on store shelves is a deeply satisfying experience. “There’s something incredible about creating something from scratch and knowing it resonates with people,” she says. The brand has already made its mark in Chicago and Phoenix, with plans to expand further in the future.

Nallely’s advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is simple yet profound: assume positive intent. “When someone gives you feedback, don’t add negativity to it. Listen to the message and take what serves you,” she says. She also encourages people to find their cheerleaders—those who believe in their potential and want to see them succeed. “Focus on the support you have, and don’t waste time trying to convert doubters.”

From her early days navigating cultural identity to building a career and launching a thriving business, Nallely’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and passion. Whether she’s strategizing for Drop Needle Drinks or sharing advice with others, she continues to inspire those around her to dream big and take bold steps toward their goals. For Nallely, the journey is personal—and she wouldn’t have it any other way.

On a recent episode of The Latina Network Podcast, host Abby Torres sat down with Rosie Gonzalez, Brookfield’s top real estate broker. What emerged was far more than a business success story: it was a powerful testimony of faith, resilience, and the kind of determination that turns struggle into purpose.

Rosie’s journey into real estate didn’t begin with a grand plan; it began in what she calls “a desperate moment.” Faced with uncertainty, she decided to sell her own home. That one decision changed everything. “I sold my house,” she recalls, “and immediately got busy right away.” What started as a necessity quickly became a calling.

From those early days to becoming the number one broker in her market, Rosie’s path has been marked by grit and grace. Her ascent wasn’t fueled by shortcuts or luck — it was built through study, consistency, and an unwavering belief that God was guiding her steps. Within just three years, her commitment to learning and serving clients catapulted her to the top of her field.

Yet, Rosie’s definition of success extends beyond the transaction. “I’m friends with all of my clients,” she says with conviction. Her approach is deeply relational — built on trust, authenticity, and a genuine desire to serve. It’s this humanity in business that has become her brand.

Through her questions, Abby draws out lessons that resonate beyond real estate. Their conversation becomes a reflection on what it truly means to succeed — not just professionally, but personally. For Rosie, that means finding balance between her thriving career and her most important role: being a mother.

She speaks openly about the constant tension between ambition and responsibility — and the peace that comes from surrendering it all to God’s plan. “I’ve learned to delegate, to trust others, and most of all, to trust Him,” she shares. “God always has a plan… I’m a warrior.”

Abby’s gift as a host is her ability to let faith and vulnerability coexist in the same sentence. Together, she and Rosie reveal a truth that applies to every industry and every dreamer: success is not a straight line — it’s a series of leaps made in faith.

In the end, their dialogue leaves listeners with more than inspiration; it offers a blueprint. Work hard. Keep learning. Value people. Trust God’s timing.

Rosie Gonzalez’s story is proof that even in life’s most uncertain moments, there’s opportunity waiting — if you’re willing to believe, act, and persevere.

In the latest episode of "The Face of Latina Professionals," Jasmine Hernandez, the CEO and founder of Ubuntu Strategies, captivates listeners with her journey from a Chicago neighborhood to the pinnacle of entrepreneurial success. Her story, infused with wisdom, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of personal and professional growth, offers profound insights and inspiration.

Raised in Chicago’s diverse landscapes, Jasmine's roots in Hermosa and Humboldt Park shaped her early worldview. Her academic journey at NOBLE, a network of charter schools, laid the foundation for her commitment to education and mentorship. "They supported my transition from high school to college, being first-generation... ensuring I was provided the most opportunities," Jasmine recalls. This support system played a critical role in her pursuit of higher education, studying biology and environmental studies with a focus on education.

Her career began with a focus on educational support for students like herself, evolving into roles like assistant dean and alumni counselor. Jasmine’s reflection on her identity also played a pivotal role. "I've actually felt almost this disconnect with being Latina and being able to identify as Puerto Rican," she shares. This personal exploration of cultural identity and heritage is a testament to the complex nature of self-identification many Latinas navigate.

Transitioning from education to entrepreneurship, Jasmine’s path was anything but linear. Facing challenges head-on, she embraced each obstacle as a learning opportunity. "I think the biggest thing...is to bet on your life's work," she advises. This mindset shift is vital for anyone considering entrepreneurship, especially for those in the Latina community, often grappling with traditional expectations and fear of the unknown.

Jasmine's story is a beacon for embracing one's identity, culture, and personal aspirations. Her experience in Guatemala, learning Spanish and immersing herself in a different Latino culture, was transformative. "It allowed me to tap into the Spanish I wanted to learn and really tighten it up," she reflects.

Her entrepreneurial journey with Ubuntu Strategies symbolizes her belief in human connection over labels. The name 'Ubuntu', embodying community and mutual support, mirrors Jasmine's philosophy in business and life.

Throughout the podcast, Jasmine offers invaluable advice for aspiring Latina professionals. Emphasizing the importance of mentorship, she shares, "It's really just sharing your experience and then allowing them to take what they see as valuable." This approach highlights the significance of learning from others' experiences, a crucial element for personal and professional growth.

Jasmine Hernandez's journey is more than an entrepreneurial success story; it's a narrative of identity, resilience, and empowerment. Her experiences, insights, and advice serve as a guiding light for anyone aspiring to make a mark in their field, particularly for those in the Latina community.

In a recent episode of 'The Face of Latina Professionals Podcast,' we had the pleasure of welcoming Samantha Alvarez, a vibrant voice resonating with the power of cultural identity and self-discovery. Samantha's journey isn't just a narrative; it's a beacon for anyone grappling with their identity and purpose.

Born and raised in Chicago, Samantha proudly embraces her Puerto Rican and Honduran heritage. Her story unfolds like a vibrant tapestry, interweaving threads of culture, resilience, and aspiration. 

Growing up in Humboldt Park, she was deeply rooted in the Puerto Rican community, a cultural immersion that profoundly shaped her identity. Yet, it was her exploration of her Honduran roots in her teens that broadened her understanding of her multifaceted identity.

Samantha's journey to Honduras at 17 was a pivotal moment. “It was so heartwarming just to meet Tias and Tios and see where my mom grew up,” she recalls. This trip was not just a physical journey but a profound dive into the depths of her heritage, enriching her sense of self.

A crucial aspect of Samantha's story is her relationship with language. Despite growing up in a predominantly English-speaking environment, she mastered Spanish, thanks to her high school AP Spanish teacher. "She really just broke it down for me,” Samantha shares. 

Her trilingual proficiency in English, Spanish, and the unique colloquialisms of her cultures is more than linguistic ability; it's a bridge connecting her to her roots and to diverse communities.

Samantha's professional journey is equally compelling. Her transition from a non-profit enthusiast to a CEO of a marketing company, Inspir8, highlights her adaptability and commitment to growth. Inspir8, born out of a profound moment of realization in Medellin, Colombia, symbolizes Samantha's dedication to empowering small businesses with her creative and business acumen.

But her path wasn't devoid of challenges. Samantha's resilience in the face of domestic violence both at home and in intimate relationships is a testament to her strength. She turns her pain into purpose, channeling her experiences to empower other women. “It's my heart where I just really want to empower women that are in those situations,” she asserts, showcasing her unwavering commitment to uplift others.

As Samantha shares her story, it's clear that her journey is more than a personal narrative; it's a roadmap for embracing one's heritage, facing challenges with resilience, and transforming pain into purpose. Her life is a lesson in finding one's niche, being true to oneself, and relentlessly pursuing one's passions.

In the latest episode of "The Face of Latina Professionals," we delve into the inspiring life story of Margarita Quiñones Peña, an engineer, author, and yoga instructor who embodies the true spirit of resilience and empowerment. Margarita's journey from Durango, Mexico, to the streets of Chicago encapsulates the struggles and triumphs of a Latina dreamer in the United States.

Born into a life of uncertainty and challenges, Margarita crossed the desert at just three years old with her mother, seeking a better future. This harrowing experience forged a resilience in her that has become the cornerstone of her life story. 

Margarita openly discusses the dual identity struggle as a light-skinned Latina - a narrative often overshadowed in the discussion of immigrant experiences. Her story challenges the stereotypical image of an undocumented immigrant, showcasing the diversity and complexity within this community.

A pivotal moment in Margarita's life was her decision to pen a children's book based on her life. She faced pressure from a major publisher to alter the narrative to fit a more 'traditional' immigrant story. Resolute in her authenticity, she refused to change her story, emphasizing the importance of genuine representation in literature.

Margarita's story is not just about overcoming adversity, but about finding strength in one's roots and culture. She speaks to the power of embracing one's identity, regardless of societal expectations. 

Her narrative serves as a reminder that our stories are not defined by our struggles alone, but also by how we choose to rise above them.

In a particularly moving segment, Margarita discusses the transformative power of positivity and self-language. Breaking free from a victim mentality, she surrounded herself with positive influences, reshaping her perspective on life. 

This shift from victimhood to empowerment is a lesson in personal growth and resilience, resonating deeply with anyone facing their own battles.

Margarita's journey is a testament to the strength and diversity of the Latina experience. Her story, marked by both vulnerability and victory, serves as an inspiration and a call to embrace our authentic selves.

In a world filled with noise, finding someone whose life embodies love, empowerment, and the spirit of giving back is truly a breath of fresh air. On the latest episode of "The Face of Latina Professionals," hosted by the ever-inspiring Jennie Raymer, we had the privilege of getting to know Alexis Hutson, a remarkable woman whose life journey is a testament to the power of faith, community, and unwavering determination.

Alexis Hutson's journey begins in South Elgin, Illinois, where she grew up as an only child for the first 13 years of her life. Raised in a loving and faith-driven family, Alexis discovered her passion for sports, excelling in karate and later falling in love with volleyball. Her early years were characterized by a deep love for competition and a desire to make her mark on the world.

However, her life took a transformative turn when her family decided to adopt her sister when Alexis was just 13 years old. The addition of a new family member brought both joy and challenges, as Alexis navigated the transition from being an only child to a loving older sister.

Growing up in a family that believed in giving back, Alexis's parents also opened their home as a foster home, providing care and support to numerous children over the years. This experience exposed Alexis to the profound impact of community and the importance of being there for others, especially those in need.

Being of Mexican descent, Alexis has a unique perspective on the privileges and opportunities available to her in contrast to the challenges faced by women in less fortunate circumstances. Her experiences in India and various mission trips ignited her passion for supporting and empowering women, not just locally but globally.

Reflecting on her travels and mission work, Alexis emphasizes the importance of using one's voice to raise awareness about the struggles faced by women worldwide. She believes that women are strong, independent, and have a lot to say, and it's our responsibility to support their journey towards empowerment.

Alexis's journey to becoming the Senior Director of Events at the Boys and Girls Club was not a straight path. She explored various career opportunities, including wedding coordination and marketing for an auction company, before discovering her calling in youth leadership and community service.

Her involvement with the youth at her church and her work as a youth leader helped her realize that her true passion lay in making a difference in the lives of young people. This revelation eventually led her to the Boys and Girls Club, where she continues to impact the lives of children and teens by providing them with opportunities and support.

Remember, you have the power to make a difference in your community and beyond. Whether it's giving your time, talent, or treasure, find something you're passionate about and take action. As Alexis Hutson's journey beautifully illustrates, when you spread love, kindness, and empowerment, you become a beacon of hope in the lives of others.

In a world that sometimes feels overwhelmed by challenges, Alexis Hutson stands as a shining example of what one person can achieve through love, faith, and a commitment to empowering others. Her story is a testament to the boundless possibilities that await those who dare to dream and act.

So, what's your next step? How will you make a positive impact today? Remember, you have the power to be a beacon of love and empowerment in your community and beyond. Let Alexis's journey inspire you to embrace your own path and be a force for good in the world.

The journey to professional success, especially as a Latina, is often paved with unique challenges. In a recent episode of The Face of Latina Professionals Podcast, Estefanía Galván sat down with the remarkable Rebeca Huffman. Their conversation wasn’t just about overcoming obstacles; it was a tribute to tenacity, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of Latina professionals.

Estefanía, with her impeccable knack for drawing out the most riveting tales, ushered us into Rebeca's world. From the get-go, it's clear that Rebeca's path wasn't straightforward. "There were countless moments of self-doubt," Rebeca confessed. "Yet, every setback became a setup for a comeback."

What's the secret behind this undying spirit? As you delve into their discussion, you'll find that it's a blend of embracing one's roots, seeking mentorship, and a relentless drive to make a difference. "I've always believed in the power of community," Rebeca emphasized. "Having a circle that truly understands your struggles makes all the difference."

For you, the aspiring professional, this isn't just Rebeca's story. It's a testament to what's possible. As Estefanía rightly pointed out, "It's about charting one's own course, even when the waters are murky."

A pivotal moment in their conversation revolved around mentorship. Rebeca's voice, laced with gratitude, highlighted how seeking guidance wasn't a sign of weakness. "Every time I felt lost, I reached out. And more often than not, I found my answers in the wisdom of those who walked the path before me."

It's a lesson for us all: the power of asking. Estefanía, echoing Rebeca's sentiment, shared, "In our community, collaboration isn't just recommended; it's vital."

You might wonder, with all the odds stacked against her, what kept Rebeca going? It was her unwavering belief in herself and her mission. "Every no," she shared with a sparkle in her eye, "only brought me closer to a resounding yes."

One of the many pearls of wisdom that Rebeca dropped during this enlightening chat was about embracing one's identity. "Being a Latina is my superpower," she proclaimed, prompting nods of agreement from Estefanía. It's a reminder for you that your unique background, culture, and experiences aren't just footnotes in your story; they're the headline.

In wrapping up their conversation, Estefanía aptly summarized, "Rebeca's journey isn't an exception; it's an inspiration." An invitation for you to dream bigger, push harder, and most importantly, stay true to who you are.

In the face of adversity, it's tales like Rebeca's, amplified by platforms like Estefanía's, that light the way. So, here's to every Rebeca out there, blazing trails and inspiring the next generation.

Laura Ayala, CEO of Laura's Furniture and President of Mattresses for Kids, is a woman who has overcome adversity and risen to become a successful entrepreneur. 

Laura was born in Guadalajara, Mexico, and moved to Chicago when she was 13 years old. Her mother raised her as a single parent, and Laura became a young mother herself, having her first child at the age of 15. Despite these challenges, Laura always had a strong faith in God, which she credits for helping her persevere through life's obstacles.

Laura started her entrepreneurial journey with Laura's Furniture nine years ago, after the passing of her husband. In the face of immense loss and grief, Laura found the strength to turn something negative into something positive. She saw this as an opportunity to grow and make a better life for herself and her children.

Laura began her furniture business in a flea market and, with the help of her uncle, she made deliveries for the first six months. Her determination and hard work paid off, and today Laura's Furniture is a successful business, offering quality furniture and mattresses to customers in the Chicagoland area.

Laura is also dedicated to empowering women, and she often lends her expertise and provides coaching to those who are in need. She is a true inspiration, showing that with hard work and determination, anyone can overcome their circumstances and achieve their goals.

Laura's story is a testament to the power of faith, determination, and the human spirit. She encourages people who are going through difficult times to find the strength within themselves to turn their situation into a positive experience. 

Laura's accomplishments showcase that your background does not limit you, and that through determination and effort, anyone can surmount challenges and attain their goals. 

She is a role model for anyone who is looking to turn their life around and make a better future for themselves and their loved ones. Through her work, Laura is inspiring and empowering women everywhere, and her story is a true testament to the power of the human spirit.

Jessica Gomez is a dynamic Latina professional who has overcome many challenges to achieve success. She joins us on The Face of Latina Professionals Podcast to share her story.  

Born and raised in Michoacán, Mexico, Jessica moved to the United States at the age of 10, an experience that had a profound impact on her. For a long time, she was unhappy about the move and struggled to find her footing in a new country where she didn't speak the language.

However, with the support of a patient fifth-grade teacher and her own determination, Jessica began to relearn her confidence and embrace her identity as a Latina.

It wasn't until high school that she started to truly identify as part of a larger community of Spanish-speaking individuals from South of the border. This new realization came from forming close relationships with friends from other Latin American countries, and learning about their unique cultures and traditions. 

Despite her initial struggles, Jessica is now a proud and accomplished Latina professional. The oldest of four siblings, she and her family have remained close throughout their lives. 

The motivation behind the family's move to the United States was for better education and the opportunity to be together as a family, a goal that has been achieved. Jessica's journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of community. 

Despite the challenges she faced as a child, she has overcome them to become a successful Latina professional, a symbol of hope and inspiration for others who may be facing similar struggles.

The Face of Latina Professionals podcast is proud to showcase Jessica's story and celebrate her accomplishments.