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By AnaMaria Bech | VIVA NOLA Magazine
There are stories that move us deeply and remind us of what we are made of. The story of Beatriz Gámez is precisely that: a dazzling testimony of tenacity, resilience, and generosity that illuminates our community in South Louisiana and leaves an indelible mark for future generations.
Born with the pride of the Antioquia land in Colombia—between the small town of San Roque and the green hills of Girardota, near Medellín—Beatriz grew up understanding the true meaning of sacrifice. After being widowed at a very young age, her mother took on the courageous task of raising her daughters with a sacred mandate: "Study, studying is the most important thing; become professionals." From that humble yet dignified upbringing, Beatriz inherited the relentless spirit of her homeland: "The Antioquian people are persistent, hardworking, and driven."
That same strength prevailed when she decided to become an entrepreneur in New Orleans. In 2011, along with her husband Raúl, she founded Global Auto Insurance, a company born from a shared dream. Although life tested her after Raúl's physical departure, Beatriz continued leading the agency, turning it into a beacon of trust for thousands of Hispanic families. Her business philosophy transcends financial matters; it is built on three unshakeable values: "The motto was always very important: honesty, transparency, and respect. And to this day, we continue to uphold it."
For Beatriz, being a leader means lifting others up. She treats her employees with the same affection and dignity with which she cares for her family, convinced that a happy team passes that same warmth on to every client. Looking at the growth of the Hispanic community in our region, her eyes fill with emotion: "The community is amazing, and I say this with so much pride… humble people, moving forward against all odds, without knowing the language, yet starting businesses and overcoming challenges. It is true Hispanic pride from the bottom of my heart."
Her message for young people who are building their path today is an inspiring life guide: "First and foremost is education and striving to innovate. And something extremely important: let us not lose Spanish. English is vital, but Spanish connects us to who we are. It is about always extending a helping hand to others; it is working with the heart."
Beatriz Gámez not only built a successful business; she built a spiritual home for the Latino community in Louisiana, proving that when we work with love and truth, success knows no borders.
