Coming to NYC, Authentic Voices of Immigrant Women: Q&A with Stefania Cruz
Today we’re kicking off Immigrant Heritage Month! This month is dedicated throughout the United States to sharing the stories and contributions of immigrants to our society, culture, and economy.
We’re holding our own celebration! On June 20, in honor of Immigrant Heritage Month and of World Refugee Day, we’re hosting our annual benefit.
Don’t wait to purchase your tickets here, space is limited.
The event will feature a panel discussion called “Coming to NYC, Authentic Voices of Immigrant Women,” featuring two immigrant women professionals and two of our recent graduates from LEAD, a professional development program.
Meet with Stefania Cruz, one of our LEAD graduates participating in the discussion. Stefania is originally from Mexico.
- What is your greatest survival skill in New York?
The ability to ask anything and remain positive.
- What has been your biggest struggle or challenge since you came to the US?
Getting hired by the companies I’d like to work for. Before it was challenging because I didn’t have the proper work permit and now it’s still difficult because of the process it takes just to get an interview, but things are progressing.
- What was your first awkward cultural moment in the US?
Telling jokes; it just doesn’t work sometimes! I’m not as funny as I am in my country and I forget about translating Spanish sayings or proverbs.
- What was your first job in the US?
Nine years ago I came to New York for the first time and worked as a babysitter. Last year I worked as an administrative assistant for a real estate company.
- What is a dish that you like to cook from your home country? Where do you find the ingredients for this dish in the city?
Picadillo — you can find the ingredients anywhere except for the maggi sauce, that one you would have to order online or maybe explore Mexican shops in Queens.
- Who is a role model or inspiration to you?
It might sound like cliché but I try to be my own role model by constantly challenging myself to be better and do more. I do have some things that I admire from others like my parents, Sheryl Sandberg, my fiancé and my friend Melissa.
If you want to learn more about Stefania’s experience of immigration and listen to the inspiring stories of other immigrant women, don’t miss our annual benefit on June 20 – It will feature a unique panel discussion with Stefania, another LEAD graduate, and two women immigrant professionals. Tickets are available here.
