Article in Spanish / Versión en español >>Latinas que Inspiran: Luz Lobos

Synergy Design Group, led by Luz Lobos, has achieved remarkable success through passion, perseverance, and core values. Luz, who immigrated from El Salvador, founded Synergy Design Group with a clear vision: to bridge the gap between marketing and face-to-face engagement. Her journey, marked by challenges and growth, demonstrates the power of resilience, the importance of investing in people, and a strong vision.

Luz’s passion is immediately evident. She believes in creating environments where clients thrive and feel empowered. This is reflected in Synergy Design Group’s tagline, “Through Our Workday,” which was born from client praise. The company crafts impactful experiences for trade shows, corporate events, and installations, ensuring clients are empowered and proud. They align client goals between Europe and the U.S., forging a global presence.

Luz faced challenges as a woman and a minority in her field. However, she refused to be limited, focusing on strong teams and core values. This led to significant growth, a new warehouse and an acquisition. “I took the For Sale sign, scratched off for sale, and just wrote New Synergy Warehouse and pasted it up on my desk,” Luz recalls. “And, I even sketched it out similar to what it looks like now and put it there and figured it out.” This shows her unwavering belief and determination.

Synergy Group’s strategy centers on a supportive culture, team development through workshops, and an “abundance” mindset. Luz believes leadership is about serving others. “A real leader is not there to set the law or be a boss,” she states. “You’re there to give people the resources they need to succeed and help them grow.” This philosophy strengthened her team and led to Inc. 5000 recognition.

Luz’s story is one of perseverance. Through challenges like Hurricane Katrina and the pandemic, she innovated and thrived. Her ability to find silver linings and her commitment to growth have been crucial.

Ultimately, Luz’s success reflects her strong self-belief and vision. She urges entrepreneurs to embrace their ventures fully. “If you’re starting a business, are you willing to put it all out there?” she asks. “I said, you put your house, you put everything that you own and believe it into a business.” Her journey inspires, proving that passion, perseverance, and core values make any vision possible.

Article in Spanish / Versión en español >>Latinas que Inspiran: Lilibeth Rodríguez

Lilibeth Rodriguez, co-owner of Archangel Insurance, is a woman of many talents and passions. As a single mother of two, she has successfully built a thriving insurance agency that is now five years old. Her journey is one of resilience, ambition, and a deep commitment to empowering others.

Born in the USA to a Mexican mother and a Dominican Republic-born father, Lilibeth understands the importance of cultural connection. She leverages her bilingual abilities to build trust and strong relationships with her clients, ensuring they feel comfortable and understood.

Lilibeth’s passion for insurance stems from her desire to help people protect their families, businesses, and properties. She takes pride in educating her clients about their coverage options and building lasting relationships with them.

Beyond her work at Archangel Insurance, Lilibeth is deeply involved in her community. She values family, adventure, and meaningful connections, and finds joy in traveling and socializing with loved ones. She is also part of the 420 Fire Ministry family.

Lilibeth is a strong advocate for empowering women and creating opportunities for future generations. She believes in challenging stereotypes and making a positive impact, whether through her work, her role as a mother, or her community influence. She is particularly passionate about financial literacy and believes in the importance of educating youth on insurance, credit, savings, and investments. She envisions offering elective classes on these topics to help families build generational wealth. She also supports entrepreneurship and small business growth through mentorship and resources, and seeks to create stronger networking opportunities to uplift and support others.

Lilibeth Rodriguez is a true inspiration, demonstrating the power of resilience, ambition, and community engagement. She is a woman making a real difference in the lives of those around her.

Article in Spanish / Versión en español >>Latinas que inspiran: Kerbeline Elisa Hurtel

Kerbeline Elisa Hurtel is a Personal Injury Pre Litigation Paralegal at The Law Office of John W. Redmann. Born in the U.S. to a Honduran mother and Cuban father, she has been with the firm for almost 6 years.

Kerbeline finds fulfillment in assisting clients through the personal injury process and being a resource for her coworkers. She also values her firm’s volunteer work with local Hispanic-owned businesses. Outside of work, Kerbeline enjoys spending time with her husband and dogs, exploring her city, and supporting Hispanic-owned businesses with her friends.

As a Latina woman in a male-dominated field, Kerbeline hopes to inspire other first-generation women to overcome barriers and believe in themselves. She started at an entry-level position with no prior legal field experience and learned multiple departments while assisting clients and coworkers.

Her advice for young Latinas interested in the legal field is to “go for it! Apply for the position and learn as much as you can from everyone in the office.” Her favorite phrase at work is “be a sponge and absorb as much knowledge as possible!”

Kerbeline wishes to see more availability of resources, empathy, and compassion within the Hispanic community.

Article in Spanish / Versión en español >>Latinas que Inspiran: Gabriela Reyes

Gabriela Reyes, a Senior Client Manager at Gallagher, is a force to be reckoned with in the employee benefits field. With a passion for building meaningful client relationships and a dedication to providing tailored solutions, Gabriela has made a significant impact in her career.

Gabriela’s journey in the insurance industry is marked by continuous learning and growth. She thrives in the dynamic nature of employee benefits, navigating the evolving landscape of regulations and innovative offerings. Her commitment to excellence and client satisfaction is evident in her work and the recognition she has received. Notably, she was awarded the Think/WOW Award three years in a row by a previous employer, an honor based on peer nominations and recognizing extraordinary service.

Beyond her professional achievements, Gabriela finds purpose in empowering others and breaking barriers. 

She advises young Latinas aspiring to enter the insurance industry to embrace their unique perspectives, seek mentorship, and cultivate strong communication and analytical skills. She also emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and growth in the ever-evolving industry.

In her personal life, Gabriela enjoys exploring new restaurants, reading, and watching history documentaries. She also advocates for increased access to educational resources, economic opportunities, and healthcare services within the Spanish community. Gabriela Reyes exemplifies what it means to be a woman inspiring change.

Article in Spanish / Versión en español >>Latinas que Inspiran: Karen Gómez 

Karen Gomez’s journey is a testament to passion, perseverance, and the power of cultural heritage. Born in Belize, she brings a unique and invaluable perspective to her role as a paralegal at Glago Williams, where she has dedicated eight years of her career. 

Karen’s work is more than just a job; it’s a calling. Her cultural background, she believes, provides her with a crucial lens through which she views her work, enabling her to guide individuals and families through the often-intimidating legal process and support diverse communities effectively.

What truly drives Karen is the opportunity to contribute directly to the outcome of cases, making her work feel purposeful and impactful. She enjoys the variety and challenges that come with her role, as well as the chance to collaborate closely with attorneys and clients. She is also committed to advocating for the Hispanic community.

Knowing that she contributes to the growth and success of legal assistants she onboards in her firm has been incredibly rewarding and a clear example of her leadership and dedication to building a supportive and effective team.

When she’s not working, Karen enjoys unwinding and connecting with her cultural roots through cooking. Travel is another passion, offering her the chance to experience new cultures, foods, and perspectives. Yoga helps her maintain a sense of balance and clarity. Spending quality time with her family remains her favorite pastime.

Being a Woman Inspiring Change in the legal field is something Karen considers incredibly powerful. She is breaking barriers and challenging long-standing norms. Her journey is a testament to the fact that women can not only succeed in a traditionally male-dominated field but also excel, influence, and lead.

Karen’s advice to young Latinas aspiring to enter the legal field is simple yet profound: stay focused, embrace your unique perspective, seek mentors, take risks and never underestimate the power of perseverance.

Article in Spanish / Versión en español >>Latinas que Inspiran: Karla Herrera

Karla Herrera, a Loan Officer at PrimeLending, dedicates her work to assisting the Latino community. As a proud Honduran, she’s driven to help fellow immigrants achieve the dream of homeownership, moving away from renting. Witnessing other women gain independence through their intelligence, perseverance, and daily striving for improvement fills her with joy.

Karla strongly believes in the power of education. She takes the time to guide people step-by-step through the home-buying process. She has seen firsthand that “yes, it’s possible” and encourages others to believe in their ability to own their home. In her free time, Karla enjoys spending time with her family.

Article in Spanish / Versión en español >> Latinas que Inspiran: Lisbeth Andrea Philip

Lisbeth Andrea Philip, Assistant Professor of Spanish and Director of the Certificate Program in Translation and Interpreting at the University of New Orleans, is a force for change. Born in Puerto la Cruz, Venezuela, she brings a passion for helping people and a dedication to education to her work. With six years at the University of New Orleans, she has not only shared her knowledge but also created the first and only certified translation and interpreting program in Louisiana and the Gulf Coast.

Her commitment to facilitating visibility for marginalized communities is evident in her work, as she strives to provide access to language and essential public services for those with limited English proficiency.

To young Latinas entering the field, Philip advises them to do so with passion and commitment. She emphasizes the importance of ensuring equitable access to services by eliminating language barriers. 

Beyond the classroom, Philip expresses herself through abstract ceramic figures, finding another outlet for her creativity. 

Article in Spanish / Versión en Español >>  Latinas que Inspiran: Emmy O’Dwyer 

Emmy O’Dwyer’s story is one of passion, dedication, and a deep-seated commitment to community. Born to Honduran immigrants in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana, Emmy’s connection to her heritage has been a driving force in her life and work. Today, she’s a nationally recognized education leader, using her platform to elevate the unique needs of the Latino community in early childhood education.

Emmy’s journey began with a personal need: As a mother of two young children, she sought quality childcare after Hurricane Katrina. This led her to open the first new early learning center in the area, Abeona House. Starting in a small shotgun house on Oak Street, the center served 30 children. Over 19 years, Abeona House grew, expanding its facility and improving program quality and teacher compensation. This experience ignited Emmy’s passion for early childhood education and her drive to create positive change.

In 2021, Emmy founded Advancing Communities for Equity, a company focused on strengthening systems that benefit children and families. Her work extends across Jefferson and Orleans parishes, the state of Louisiana, and nationally. She advocates for programs for multilingual infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, and works with partners such as Jefferson Ready Start Network (JRSN), and with Beloved Community and Agenda for Children in Orleans Parish to ensure children have access to culturally and linguistically responsive options.

Emmy’s message to young Latinas entering the field is powerful: “I find that the cultural assets you have learned from the community are superpowers. The love and care for people, compassion, and curiosity can help you learn as much as possible about your field and be a resource that others come to for guidance.” She emphasizes the importance of recognizing the power and love within one’s own family, church, and school, using those skills to give back to others.

A key focus of Emmy’s work is educating the Latino community about the importance of early childhood development. She shares the statistic that 85% of brain development occurs in the first three years of life and stresses the need for rich learning experiences and early identification of learning issues. She also encourages families to preserve their language and heritage, recognizing the gift it is to children.

Emmy O’Dwyer’s impact is undeniable. She has helped hundreds of dual language learners learn about high-quality early care and education classrooms led by bilingual educators. She also championed a program to recruit, employ, and train bilingual Latino women as early care and education teachers, creating a two-generational program that benefits women, children, and the community as a whole.

In her spare time Emmy decorates shoes with lots of glitter for the Muses parade and enjoys dancing in Iris with The Ladies of Leisure. Carnival and all the joy that surrounds it provides her inspiration and community year-round.

Emmy’s work is driven by her belief that the Latino community can play a powerful role in shaping the early childhood system. Her dedication, passion, and vision make her a true inspiration and a vital force for positive change in the lives of children and families.

Article in Spanish - Versión en español>> Las protectoras de la fuerza laboral en Louisiana

Over 35 years ago, LCI Workers’ Comp began building its commitment to the Louisiana workforce. And it began by building a company where employees are committed to their jobs and have a chance to become leaders within the organization. Today, LCI is led by a knowledgeable and experienced group of women–some with 20 years of leadership in their areas of expertise–such as underwriting, claims, and payroll verification.

As LCI’s team continues to grow, they are focused on helping more businesses succeed, and they are extending their services to the Hispanic community with the launch of their new program, Caminos. Their team has grown to include bilingual personnel who are excited to work directly with local Hispanic entrepreneurs. The women who run these departments understand the hardships Hispanic business owners face on the road to success, and they are ready to provide coaching and guidance anytime they are called upon.

Eugenie has been with LCI since 2003 and is the Senior Underwriter. Eugenie has over 20 years of experience, is a licensed Property & Casualty Agent, and has her Certified Workers Compensation Professional designation. Eugenie lives on the Northshore with her husband and two children. In her spare time, she enjoys family vacations to the beach.

Melissa graduated from Southeastern Louisiana University with a Bachelor’s degree in Organizational. Melissa is currently the Finance Supervisor. She joined the LCI team in July 2010 and works as the Finance Supervisor She resides in New Orleans with her boyfriend, Daniel, and their cute (but bad) cat, Ivy. In her free time, Melissa enjoys traveling to new countries and spending time with her friends and family, especially her nieces and nephews.

Barbara began her career with LCI Workers’ Comp in 2006. Her responsibilities include posting payments and sending out all premium invoices. She was born and raised in Uptown, New Orleans. She says, “The best thing about growing up in the Uptown area was being surrounded by all of my family. I also developed relationships with other children in the area, some of whom I am still friends with to this day. On Saturdays, I enjoy serving those in need by volunteering at the Mission in New Orleans.”

For the Spanish version of this article, click here>>Blanca E. Johnson: Reinventando el éxito

Nicaraguan, by the Grace of God, Blanca E. Johnson grew up in a family of successful business owners. From a young age, she learned the value of good customer service and hard work while helping at El Coliseo, her family’s restaurant. Beyond providing high-quality food, she also shared her artistic talents as a classical dancer, playing the guitar, singing, and wearing colorful costumes. Sandino, the revolutionary leader of Nicaragua, forced her family to move to Miami, and El Coliseo found a new home. After a few years, the restaurant closed due to her father’s illness, and Johnson sought a new career. 

Working for a recognized financial institution, she advanced rapidly, learning every job in detail until becoming the head of compliance. “I don’t like breaking the rules,” says Johnson, which made the position a great fit for her. As a risk analyst, she worked internationally, achieving great success and recognition. Johnson earned a good salary and had a life full of luxuries. When she found members of the bank’s staff were breaking the rules, including senior executives, she had to report it. Doing so cost her a 30-year career in the banking industry due to retaliation. “I went from having everything to having nothing.” 

She found herself in a dark place, battling depression. In hindsight, Johnson saw this as a turning point. God, she believes, was showing her a better path. “I had become a very arrogant person,” she admits. In 2011, her sister welcomed her in New Orleans. 

Once again, she had to reinvent herself. Johnson recovered financially, working for cruise ship companies and Pan-American Life. Within five years, she had bought a house. More importantly, she transformed into a more humble and compassionate person, a change she is proud of.

In 2018, she decided to work independently as a Realtor for Keller Williams, and as she had done many times before, she learned everything about real estate. With her previous experience in finance and business management, Blanca has all the tools needed to get results for her clients. “Nothing stops me from achieving my goals,” she says.  

Johnson’s achievements speak volumes about her capabilities. As the V.P. for KW Chispa Southeast, a Top 20 Selling Producer and host of the American Dream TV Show, she has proven her expertise in the real estate industry. Her motto, “With Blanca, it is possible,” instills confidence in her clients that they can achieve their dream of finding a new home. 

In New Orleans, Johnson reinvented herself, found love, and currently dedicates herself to motivating those around her to achieve their goals. She firmly believes success is always within reach, regardless of one’s starting point. “The only block you have in life is yourself,” she says. Johnson is a pioneer of home-buying seminars and is committed to educating her clients with her direct and honest personality. “What I wouldn’t buy for myself, I wouldn’t sell to a client,” she asserts, underlining her dedication to her clients’ success. To buy or sell a property, contact her at (504) 496-5100 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

For the Spanish version of this article, click here>>BERTHA CERNA, Agente de Bienes Raíces

When Bertha Cerna sees in her clients’ faces that they have found the perfect place to call home and the sincere gratitude from the sellers when the property gets sold, it is the most rewarding moment of her work.

Cerna, a Latter & Bloom / Compass Realtor, has a wealth of knowledge and a unique skill set that allows her to succeed. Her communication in both Spanish and English, honed during her time as a professional interpreter and teacher, allows her to simplify complex real estate concepts, which is a significant advantage for clients navigating the buying and selling process.   

As an immigrant from Honduras who has called New Orleans home since 2001, Cerna profoundly understands and appreciates the family values within the Hispanic culture. She is deeply committed to helping the Hispanic community in Louisiana achieve their dream of homeownership. Her expertise in the local real estate market and understanding of Hispanic buyers’ and sellers’ unique needs make her an invaluable resource. 

Cerna is up-to-date on market trends and assistance programs offered in New Orleans that allow for low monthly payments and government subsidies for first-time buyers. She educates her clients about the possibility of qualifying for loan programs with low down payments and benefits that improve depending on their credit score. Additionally, Louisiana residents who can provide proof of income and a Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) have the opportunity to purchase property. “The dream of having your own home is now closer with the facilities available; it may even cost less than the high rental prices that many people pay today,” she says.  

When purchasing a home, Cerna is a dedicated guide, supporting her clients every step of the way. From conducting research and home inspections to understanding insurance and choosing the best title company for closing, Cerna is a trustworthy advisor. She manages negotiations, clarifies real estate terms, discloses financial qualifications, and identifies companies that offer the best loan options. For clients looking to sell their properties, Cerna provides comprehensive support, creating a detailed market analysis to establish the best price, distributing listings on multiple platforms, handling legal aspects and inspections, and negotiating offers. With Cerna, you can feel confident and reassured throughout the entire process. 

 “I feel very proud when I see Hispanics achieve their goals. I admire hard-working men and women who, through action and discipline, use their earnings to invest, buy and sell property, and achieve financial success.” 

With a kind, warm personality, and a friendly smile, Cerna earns the trust of everyone involved in the transaction. With professionalism, experience, thoughtfulness, and the support of her experienced team, Cerna is ready to help you take the next big step of your life, whether purchasing the home of your dreams or finding a luxury vacation property. Call or text Bertha Cerna at (504) 617-3681 or write to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

Visit her webpage to see her listings at https://berthacerna.latter-blum.com/

For the Spanish version of this article, click here>>Cineasta Alejandro de los Ríos

With a unique background that spans Nicaragua, other Latin American countries, the East Coast, and New Orleans, Alejandro de los Rios, a half-Cuban, half-Venezuelan creative, embarked on a journey in the film industry. After graduating from Ithaca College in New York, his initial pursuit of sports journalism led to a shift towards multimedia and, eventually, cinematography, a passion ignited by New Orleans’ vibrant creative scene.

De los Rios honed his skills through various projects, including commercials, band profiles, and behind-the-scenes shoots. He credits Robert Rodriguez for teaching him about directing.  Quentin Tarantino, Martin Scorsese, YouTube tutorials, and NOVAC (where he currently works) were sources for his filmmaking education.

The turning point in Alejandro de los Ríos’s career came from participating in the Emerging Voices Directors Lab at the New Orleans Film Festival. The program’s grant, mentorship, and peer support not only enabled him to create a short film but also solidified his commitment to filmmaking as a profession.

De los Rios emphasizes the importance of collaboration and community in filmmaking. He values diverse perspectives and believes in fostering a creative environment where the “best idea wins,” and has established a solid crew for over ten years. “I quickly learned that you can’t make movies alone. It’s important to create a community,” he says. This collaborative spirit is evident in his work, which includes documentaries and original short films like Jalapeño Andretti, Seafood Gangster, and Distant Mardi Gras.

His latest short, Game Day Ritual,  a sports comedy about three friends who kidnap the star player of their favorite team to perform an occult ritual they believe will finally win them a championship, mixes everything he likes. The film was chosen to premiere at the New Orleans Film Festival and Shreveport’s Prize Fest in October. With a concept for his next movie ready, de los Rios hopes to shoot in Colombia or Venezuela, where he has been reconnecting with his Latin American roots.

De los Rios remains committed to sharing his knowledge and passion with aspiring filmmakers, ensuring the next generation is equipped to tell their stories through film. Check out his film during the New Orleans Film Festival and learn more about this talented cinematographer by visiting FromtheRiverFilms.com.