More than twenty years ago, the Hispanic Women’s Corporation (HWC) set out to embrace the unique social and cultural opportunities that present themselves when Latinas create and build relationships. The HWC now serves over 2,000 women, 400 high school students and 45 scholars, helping to empower Latinas across the country through creating connections and conversations with one another. Alexis Parra, 28, Conference Chair for the HWC takes time to share her experiences, expectations and love for the HWC as the youngest Conference Chair the organization has had. Learn more about this organization, their tremendous impact on the community and how you can connect yourself within this network as we feature the Hispanic Women’s Corporation in this week’s Non-Profit Spotlight.
University of California at Berkeley, BA in Sociology (2000)
Work Experience
VP, Marketing & Sales Face ME Luxury Cosmetics and Skin care Boutique
Community Outreach Liaison, Community Relations & Diversity Marketing Wells Fargo Bank HR Generalist, ConocoPhillips
About the non-profit
The Hispanic Women’s Corporation (HWC) was founded in 1981 as a result of a series of meetings among concerned Latina women. What began as a casual association evolved into intense discussions. Their shared experiences sparked the recognition that Latina women have unique social and cultural challenges and opportunities. Together, they used their diverse backgrounds in corporations, government, and educational institutions to develop a mechanism to empower the Hispanic Women’s Corporation.
Most notable milestones
When the conference first started the expectation was to host 50 women and over 100 attended. Now we serve over 2000 professional women, 400 high school students and 45 scholars. A few years ago the organization was approached to host a meeting with the First Lady of Mexico for a discussion on the empowerment of Latinas.
What’s the niche?
The National Hispanic Women’s Conference is the largest gathering of Latinas. HWC provides culturally relevant information and resources to Latinas while looking at the impact our community has nationally. We also celebrate the accomplishments of our leaders, provide 45 scholarships annually and celebrate all aspects of our culture as a whole.
What’s the biggest challenge?
The biggest challenge, but the greatest accomplishment is presenting the National Hispanic Women’s Conference annually with a staff of all volunteers. This is no small feat, but the committee as a whole is committed to the mission of the organization as well as to the women that attend the conference each year.
What’s in store for the future?
The conference will continue to grow and evolve. This year for the first time we have included a film screening as part of our program. We will be featuring Bella, a film featuring Eduardo Verastegui, due for formal release later this year. I foresee the conference continuing to add interesting components to the program while pushing the envelope in providing solutions and resources for social concerns facing the community. HWC as an organization will increase its capability to provide scholarships at the undergraduate, graduate and PhD levels.
Who would you like to be contacted by?
Everyone that is interested in the mission and work of HWC is always a welcomed friend and partner. The organization typically attracts individuals looking for a professional forum where they can receive culturally relevant information, while given the opportunity to network and build quality relationships with women and companies across the U.S. Companies focusing on the Latino market as consumers, clients, or for recruitment purposes are also strongly encourage to contact HWC.
“Greatest sin man can ever commit is wasted talent” —from the movie ‘A Bronx Tale’. I must have seen the movie at the age of 11, but that quote has always stayed with me. I think that is why I love doing what I do, I think everyone has talent and love to see when others realize it, believe it and act on it. Only beauty can come from sharing your talents.
Yardstick of success
For HWC it would be the thank you letters from our scholars describing the impact the organization has had on their lives. Personally, I believe that when you are able to look beyond yourself and help others find success that is a true sign of one having achieved success.
Goal yet to be achieved
To double attendance numbers and contributions over the next 3 years.
Best practical advice
Follow your bliss.
Supportive words from a family member or friend on your venture
“You have enabled us to dream big.” A dear friend of mine and committee member shared this while me while discussing plans for this year’s event. Not only was I completely touched, but most importantly it let me know that I was on the right track. Life is about dreaming the impossible and watching it unfold before your eyes as a reality.
Mentor
Definitely my mother, but it is also because of her that I have many mentors. My mother has always exposed to me to so many different people and her dear ‘comadres’; at a very young age. It has been a blessing to this type of mentorship and support throughout the years.
What motivated you to get started?
My mother and aunt were initially involved with the organization. I was asked to help as a volunteer during my college years, I helped to collect evaluations. I would also recruit 10-15 of my girlfriends from UC Berkeley to the conference each year. It was a great experience for all of us at that time. HWC is not an organization you volunteer for once. It becomes a life-time commitment.
Like best about what you do?
Working with the executive conference committee. It is amazing to see the dedication and time they put forth throughout year, from one conference to the next, especially being that they are all volunteers. Some women have been working with the organization since its inception.
Like least about what you do?
I can’t think of anything. I think every task has its rewards.
At age 10, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to work in fashion. I couldn’t wait to flip through my mother’s glossy W magazines.
Biggest pastime outside of work
Outside of work, it is definitely volunteering and fundraising. I think it’s in my blood. Aside from volunteering, it would have to be discovering new restaurants and sharing the experience with friends. It is a great way to recharge and stay connected with everyone.
Person most interested in meeting and why?
Carolina Herrera. She projects such strength, will and vision and is a clearly successful business woman. From what I’ve read she remains close to her daughters and even works with them.
Interesting facts about yourself
I am the only female out of four siblings. I’m also the youngest women to hold my current position within the organization.
Three characteristics that describe you
Strong willed. Persistent. Passionate.
Three greatest passions
Community. Education. Family.
Favorite book
Anything by Isabel Allende.
Favorite cause
Education. I believe everyone should have proper access and the tools to succeed academically. I am amazed at the severe discrepancies in resources from school to school especially at the younger levels.
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