By Axel Lola Rosa

Artículo en español>>oscar “Toasta” gale de la barbería a la pantalla grande

Oscar Gale, known as Toasta, represents the different cultural influences that enrich today’s entertainment world. Born to a Honduran mother and a Paraguayan father, Gale has always stayed local not just by acting but also hosting events and owning a small business in Jefferson Parish. His family’s roots trace back to the heart of San Pedro Sula, specifically from the Barrio de Las Acacias.
Initially, Gale’s passion for music remains a significant part of his identity. However, a chance encounter with casting director Tracy Kilpatrick changed his life forever. While hosting a Latin Night in the city, Gale extended an invitation to Kilpatrick to recruit talent for her upcoming project, Contraband, starring Mark Wahlberg. To his surprise, she offered him an audition. Not sure what to do at first, he eventually seized the opportunity, marking the beginning of his acting career.

Since then, Gale has built an impressive resumé, featuring roles in acclaimed films like Tammy and 22 Jump Street, as well as the hit television series NCIS: New Orleans, amongst many more. But his most recognized role was in the movie The Big Short, which explores the events leading to the 2008 financial crisis in the U.S. caused by the housing bubble and the subsequent collapse of the mortgage market. The Huffpost stated, “The most gripping scene in ‘The Big Short’ isn’t about rich, white men,” referring to Gale portraying a father who lost his home due to the crisis. His experience on set with Mark Wahlberg during Contraband stands out as a memorable moment. Gale recalls filming under freezing conditions, with a scene meant to take place in the warmth of Colombia. Wahlberg’s friendly and professional attitude made a strong impact on him, showing the close connections that exist in the industry.

Perhaps one of the most touching highlights of Gale’s acting journey was working alongside Paul Walker on the film, Hours. Gale, who grew up admiring Walker in the Fast and Furious franchise, found himself star-struck yet grounded during their interactions. “He was super cool and humble,” Gale recalls, reflecting on their casual conversations. The news of Walker’s tragic passing deeply affected him. “When I heard he passed, I was at my friend’s house. I got really emotional; it was a sad day for so many of us.”

Recently, Gale made a splash with a Super Bowl commercial, where he portrayed a Latino barber. Although he didn’t watch the game live, the flurry of notifications that poured in after the ad aired was overwhelming. “It was one of the first commercials aired! My phone went off like crazy,” he says with excitement.

Currently, Gale is honing his craft as a barber while also working on a podcast focused on men’s mental health. He urges aspiring Latino actors from New Orleans not to let anyone diminish their pride. “Whatever gives you that spark and drive, don’t lose it!” Gale is a living testament to resilience, proving that with passion and determination, dreams can come true, and one’s heritage can be a source of strength and inspiration.
For a list of Gale’s projects you can visit IMDB.com and for his next project announcement, follow him on Instagram, @oscargale.

Spanish / Español >> Mujeres de New Orleans que hicieron historia

New Orleans, a city known for its vibrant culture and rich history, has also been home to many remarkable women who defied expectations and left an indelible mark on the world. From activists and artists to entrepreneurs and educators, these trailblazers have shaped the city’s landscape and inspired generations to come. Here are just a few of the phenomenal women who have called New Orleans home:

Marie Laveau (1801-1881): 

Perhaps the most famous woman in New Orleans’ history, Marie Laveau was a Creole voodoo practitioner who became a powerful and influential figure in the 19th century. Known for her spiritual leadership and community activism, she helped those in need, especially the poor and enslaved. Her legacy continues to captivate and intrigue to this day.

Kate Chopin (1850-1904): 

A groundbreaking author, Kate Chopin challenged social norms with her honest and realistic portrayals of women’s lives in the late 19th century. She was born in St. Louis and moved to New Orleans after marriage. Her novel The Awakening was considered controversial at the time for its exploration of female sexuality and independence, but it has since become a celebrated work of American literature.

Mahalia Jackson (1911-1972): 

The “Queen of Gospel,” Mahalia Jackson was a powerhouse vocalist whose music transcended genres and touched the hearts of millions. Born in New Orleans, she began singing in church choirs as a child and went on to become an international sensation, using her voice to spread messages of hope and faith.

Leah Chase (1923-2019): 

Chef Leah Chase was a culinary icon and a driving force behind the Civil Rights Movement in New Orleans. As the owner of Dooky Chase’s Restaurant, she welcomed people of all backgrounds and used her kitchen as a space for dialogue and activism. Her delicious Creole cuisine and unwavering commitment to justice made her a beloved figure in the city. She was the inspiration for Tiana the Princess, the Disney character from the movie the Princess and the Frog. A ride in Walt Disney World was inspired by the movie and her legacy was honored during the ride’s inauguration.

These are just a few of the many remarkable women who have contributed to New Orleans’ rich history. Their stories serve as a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and the unwavering pursuit of one’s passions.

The holiday season in New Orleans is a magical time, and this year, the holidays promise to be even more special! “Holidays New Orleans Style” is back for its 40th anniversary, and there is something for everyone, including our Latino community.

From November 19 until the New Year, the city will be filled with lights, music, and celebrations. During the festivities, we can delight in traditional Réveillon dinners at 44 of the city’s best restaurants, enjoy special hotel discounts, and find the perfect gifts for our loved ones at local stores, including those along the French Market District and the flea market.

Music is an essential part of our culture, and during “Holidays New Orleans Style,” St. Louis Cathedral will host free concerts by jazz, gospel, pop, and classical choirs, musicians, and singers. This year, don’t miss the inaugural New Orleans Eve concert in Jackson Square, featuring the incredible band Tank & The Bangas!

“Holidays New Orleans Style allows us to celebrate New Orleans as a top-tier holiday destination and drive business to hotels, restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions. When businesses and their employees thrive, they re-invest in our community and strengthen our economy,” says Walt Leger, President and CEO of New Orleans & Company, the official destination marketing and sales organization for the New Orleans tourism industry. 

From the iconic hotel decorations to the dazzling light displays at City Park, the annual Children’s Hospital parade, and the ice skating rink at NOLA ChristmasFest, we can enjoy many activities with family and friends.

So, join the celebration and experience the magic of “Holidays New Orleans Style”! This celebration is an opportunity to share our traditions, enjoy the city’s culture, and create unforgettable memories.

 Happy holidays, everyone!

Versión en español aquí>>Imperdible: 3.ª Celebración Anual de Herencia Hispana en el Mercado Francés

For the third year, the French Market invites the New Orleans community and its visitors to honor Hispanic Heritage with a unique family-friendly festival. This event is not just about live music and fun but also about savoring delicious Latin food and drinks from various local restaurants. An intimate live concert set up at the National Historical Park will provide a unique musical experience.

On Saturday, September 21st, the celebration begins at 11 AM and lasts until 4 PM. The music, curated by Ecos Latinos, will be a diverse mix of the best local bands playing covers from Latin America and Spain and original songs, promising a unique and exciting experience. 

The main stage and food booths from various local restaurants will be set up under the big tent next to the flea market. This is not just a festival but a community gathering where everyone is welcome, and local Latino/Hispanic-serving organizations will be on-site to provide information and community resources and to support the celebration.

A second stage will be indoors at the National Historical Park, located in Dutch Alley at 916 N. Peters Street, and will provide an intimate live-concert set-up.

Save the date and check frenchmarket.org for a list of food vendors and a schedule of live bands. We encourage you to follow the French Market on social media for the latest updates and to stay connected. This way, you won’t miss out on their fun events.

Versión en español aquí>>Perspectiva de los padres por el regreso a clases

By Aracely Argueta

I am of Guatemalan origin, a mother of three children, and have lived in Louisiana for 15 years and currently reside in Slidell. I am an entrepreneur and dedicate myself to sharing my lifestyle on my social networks. I talk about mental health without taboo and the importance of family. 

For me, a new school year means new challenges and opportunities, especially for our children. I set out to investigate how other parents feel about the start of the new school year. I called friends and acquaintances who are parents, and these were the conclusions of our feelings about returning to school: 

OPPORTUNITY: for some parents, it is an opportunity to work and save, since in the summer, they had to stay at home taking care of the children or pay someone to do so. Returning to school also gives them time and the opportunity to go to the gym and meet up with friends. At the same time, it is an opportunity for children to socialize, learn new things, limit screen use, and focus on their responsibilities.

CHALLENGE: Other parents mentioned the challenges of getting everywhere on time due to school traffic, especially when they are responsible for transporting their children to school. Parents must fulfill all responsibilities: have lunch boxes, uniforms, homework, and extracurricular activities ready or even be available for school emergency calls.

FEAR: I really did not expect this emotion, and I confess that it left me with chills. A mother confessed that she is worried about insecurity due to school attacks. We think that our children are in a safe place and sometimes they are not. However, it’s important to remember that schools have safety measures to protect our children. Sadly, children at an early age learn how to take care of themselves in situations of armed attacks, but we can take comfort in the fact that schools are doing their best to keep our children safe.

Open communication is key. Inappropriate treatment of our children by their peers is always a concern. It is important to talk to our children about having a kind attitude with all their peers and avoiding bullying at all costs. By fostering open communication and creating a safer school environment, we can empower our children to stand up against bullying.

To have successful learning, my recommendations include establishing a safe and positive learning environment, getting involved in school activities, helping children plan a schedule, and being very attentive to emotional changes that children and young people may present to support them. It is important to talk to our children positively, provide a nutritious menu, keep an eye on their medical appointments, and monitor their progress. It is very important to me to entrust our children and their teachers in prayer daily. 

Happy return to the marathon mornings!

Para leer este artículo en español, clic aquí: ¡Vamos Pelicans!

Adding a touch of Latin flair to the global sport, the NBA's New Orleans Pelicans have found an ingenious strategy to deepen their bond with the vibrant Latino community: broadcasting local games through Tropical radio. In this partnership, Juan Carlos Ramos, Víctor Quiñones, and Mario Jerez bring every dribble, dunk, and dazzle to life with an infectious passion and a distinctly Latin style, straight from the heart of the Smoothie King Arena, the Pelicans' home.

Anchoring this dynamic trio is Juan Carlos Ramos, whose journey from the media landscape to the thrilling realm of sports commentary has been nothing short of inspiring. With a background in calling the shots for the New Orleans Saints, Ramos seamlessly transitioned to the hardwood when Tom Benson's NBA acquisition opened the door. Reflecting on his journey, Ramos reminisces about a transformative summer, learning about basketball from seasoned American broadcasters, blending their expertise with his unique flair. Now in his second year as a Pelicans announcer on Radio Tropical, Ramos is living his dream.

Following Ramos's exhilarating narration, the spotlight shifts to the insightful analysis of Víctor Quiñonez, a Guatemalan powerhouse passionate about making basketball accessible to all. Drawing from his experience as a physical education teacher and youth basketball coach, Quiñonez meticulously breaks down the action, ensuring that even the most casual fans can appreciate the game's intricacies.

Mario Jerez, a die-hard Pelicans aficionado and a font of sports knowledge, adds a splash of color and a dose of statistical magic to the mix. To Jerez, mixing his Latin culture with his love for sports is beyond ideal. 'Latin culture can be mixed with basketball culture, which is why it is an honor and a pleasure to do these broadcasts in Spanish,' Jerez declares enthusiastically. He enjoys watching closely every NBA star that plays in the city. The excitement grows when the Pelicans perform as well as they are this season.

As ambassadors of inclusivity, the broadcasting team understands the profound impact of reaching out to the Latino community. "Having an NBA team in our city is a privilege," says Quiñonez, urging the Latino community of New Orleans to support the Pelicans and enjoy the exciting family entertainment the games provide. 

The invitation is open to tune in to the games on Tropical 105.7 in New Orleans, 94.7 in Baton Rouge, and 830 AM throughout the Gulf of Mexico, as well as globally through the NBA's digital platforms, where they receive constant messages of support from Pelicans fans from countries like Colombia, Argentina, and Chile.

The stage is set, the players are ready—now, it's your turn to be a part of the excitement. Do you support the New Orleans Pelicans? Join us on this exciting sports adventure!

Para leer este artículo en español, clic aquí: ¡Vamos Pelicans!

Adding a touch of Latin flair to the global sport, the NBA's New Orleans Pelicans have found an ingenious strategy to deepen their bond with the vibrant Latino community: broadcasting local games through Tropical radio. In this partnership, Juan Carlos Ramos, Víctor Quiñones, and Mario Jerez bring every dribble, dunk, and dazzle to life with an infectious passion and a distinctly Latin style, straight from the heart of the Smoothie King Arena, the Pelicans' home.

Anchoring this dynamic trio is Juan Carlos Ramos, whose journey from the media landscape to the thrilling realm of sports commentary has been nothing short of inspiring. With a background in calling the shots for the New Orleans Saints, Ramos seamlessly transitioned to the hardwood when Tom Benson's NBA acquisition opened the door. Reflecting on his journey, Ramos reminisces about a transformative summer, learning about basketball from seasoned American broadcasters, blending their expertise with his unique flair. Now in his second year as a Pelicans announcer on Radio Tropical, Ramos is living his dream.

Following Ramos's exhilarating narration, the spotlight shifts to the insightful analysis of Víctor Quiñonez, a Guatemalan powerhouse passionate about making basketball accessible to all. Drawing from his experience as a physical education teacher and youth basketball coach, Quiñonez meticulously breaks down the action, ensuring that even the most casual fans can appreciate the game's intricacies.

Mario Jerez, a die-hard Pelicans aficionado and a font of sports knowledge, adds a splash of color and a dose of statistical magic to the mix. To Jerez, mixing his Latin culture with his love for sports is beyond ideal. 'Latin culture can be mixed with basketball culture, which is why it is an honor and a pleasure to do these broadcasts in Spanish,' Jerez declares enthusiastically. He enjoys watching closely every NBA star that plays in the city. The excitement grows when the Pelicans perform as well as they are this season.

As ambassadors of inclusivity, the broadcasting team understands the profound impact of reaching out to the Latino community. "Having an NBA team in our city is a privilege," says Quiñonez, urging the Latino community of New Orleans to support the Pelicans and enjoy the exciting family entertainment the games provide. 

The invitation is open to tune in to the games on Tropical 105.7 in New Orleans, 94.7 in Baton Rouge, and 830 AM throughout the Gulf of Mexico, as well as globally through the NBA's digital platforms, where they receive constant messages of support from Pelicans fans from countries like Colombia, Argentina, and Chile.

The stage is set, the players are ready—now, it's your turn to be a part of the excitement. Do you support the New Orleans Pelicans? Join us on this exciting sports adventure!

Para leer en español, presiona aquí: Indios Negros Enmascarados o Indios de Mardi Gras

By AnaMaria Bech

Being part of one of the more than forty Mardi Gras Indian tribes is passed almost exclusively from generation to generation, and it is a tradition that involves several rituals that mix African and Native cultural traditions.

A carnival tradition we should learn more about is that of the Black Masking Indians, also known as the Mardi Gras Indians. The first time I saw them parade, their presence struck me, and I wondered why their colorful, impressive outfits resembled Native American attire and why they used indigenous names. I didn’t understand what carnival had to do with Native cultures, and since then, I tried to find out more about this tradition. In a city with such a mixture of cultures, the existence of Mardi Gras Indians makes a lot of sense. 

As the story goes, around 1718, the African and Native communities of Louisiana coexisted because, as they shared a common experience of enslavement, they helped each other. Native American tribes provided a haven for Africans who escaped slavery. For that reason, they learned from each other’s customs and created new traditions. The use of beads, feathers, masks, and headdresses was common in West African cultures, so making the suit was a tradition that offered some commonality between the two groups and allowed for the preservation of African traditions. 

According to historical accounts, adopting the indigenous persona by African descendants was not only done to hide their identity from enslavers, but it was a way of paying homage to the tribes that welcomed them and allowed them to practice their traditions. 

The carnival celebration in New Orleans was an exclusive event for white and affluent people, and elaborate costumes were a big part of the carnival. For African descendants, making and wearing Indian suits during the special celebration symbolized freedom and resistance as it allowed them to preserve their ancestors’ traditions. The suit-making tradition has been kept alive for generations. The Black Masking Indians took to the streets on Fat Tuesday, wearing their elaborate suits to take part in the celebrations, expressing pride in their culture, and remembering with songs like “Won’t bow down, don’t know how,” that they don’t know how to kneel before anyone.

Being part of one of the more than forty Mardi Gras Indian tribes is passed almost exclusively from generation to generation, and it is a tradition that involves several rituals that mix African and Native cultural traditions. The suits of the Mardi Gras Indians have special meanings, and putting them together with patches, feathers and colorful beads takes an average of nine months. Each suit is used only for the year it debuts, and it tells the unique story of the wearer. The story can vary in topics from autobiographies, family stories, and social issues to pop culture. The majestic suits can weigh up to 80 pounds.

Fat Tuesday is when suits are worn in public for the first time. The tribes have celebrated their traditions since before the First World War. Mardi Gras Indians took to the streets on St. Joseph’s night, as it was already a special day of celebration by Italian Catholics in the city.

Nowadays, the Black Masking Indians’ most significant celebration is on Super Sunday. Super Sunday was celebrated around St. Joseph’s Day but was established as an official parade in 1969 and set on the third Sunday in March. On this day, Uptown and Downtown tribes gather to dance and sing through the streets of Central City in New Orleans. 

Ceremonial dances occur during the parade, and when the tribes meet, a ritual of respect that involves bowing to the other tribe happens. Being a Mardi Gras Chief is a great honor. They have become role models for children who observe the respect chiefs receive from the community because they proudly represent their culture and traditions.

To learn more about the history of the Black Masking Indians, you can visit the Backstreet Cultural Museum at 1531 St. Philip Street in New Orleans.

Uptown Super Sunday will be on March 17 this year. The parade begins at noon in A.L. Davis Park at Washington Avenue and La Salle Street.

Para español presione aquí >>A ritmo de Gaita, comunidad venezolana celebra el Día de la Virgen de Chiquinquirá

By Alejandro Salazar

Our Lady of the Rosary of Chiquinquirá is the patron saint of Colombia and of the Zulia State in Venezuela. In Colombia, the image rests in the Basílica in honor of her name. In Venezuela, the image of the Virgin engraved on a wooden board is found in the Basilica of Maracaibo, Zulia State, and serves as its formal patron saint. Every year on November 18, the celebration of Her Day involves massive processions and songs in honor of the Virgin, also affectionately known as “La Chinita” or “Queen Morena.”

Celebrations in honor of La Chinita are now held worldwide by the Venezuelan diaspora. In this sense, on November 18, the Venezuelan and Hispanic community prayed with Brother Manuel Solórzano to celebrate a solemn mass and procession in honor of this invocation of the Virgin at the Hispanic Apostolate in Metairie. The celebration continued after the mass with a tasting of typical Venezuelan food enjoyed during the Christmas season.

For many, the day marks the beginning of Christmas. The Virgin is serenaded to the rhythm of Gaita de Furro, a musical genre originating in the Zuliana region that has spread to the rest of Venezuela. The traditional Gaita has very particular instruments, among which the following stand out: the cuatro, the maracas, the charrasca, the pipe drum, and the essential instrument called furro or furruco, a direct descendant of the Spanish zambomba. This rhythm can include religious, romantic, historical, or protest themes.

This popular rhythm is represented in Louisiana by the Nolagaita group, composed of a group of musicians and enthusiasts from Venezuela whose main objective is to make this popular genre known in the community and encourage its growth. The group maintains an active presence on social networks, posting about their presentations and activities. Nolagaita has 12 members who delighted the audience with songs dedicated to Chinita, such as “La Elegida” and “Reina Morena,” among many others.

The organizing committee was pleased with the participation and hopes the celebration will continue growing.

Para leer este artículo en español, presiona aquí>>Compra Local

By AnaMaria Bech

As the holiday season approaches, we prepare to celebrate the spirit of community and togetherness in New Orleans. One of the best ways to do that is by supporting local businesses. Shopping local during the holidays infuses the magic of the season with a unique New Orleans flair and plays a vital role in preserving the heart and soul of our city.

New Orleans is a city brimming with culture, history, and tradition. The local businesses here are the keepers of that heritage, offering a slice of NOLA’s distinct flavor. When you shop local, beyond buying a product, you’re investing in the community and helping local artisans, makers, and entrepreneurs thrive.

According to studies, for every dollar spent at a local business, 67 cents stays within the community, which translates into more jobs, thriving neighborhoods, and a more robust local economy. Supporting local businesses is investing in the prosperity of your neighbors and friends.

Moreover, local businesses often provide unique and unique gifts, showcasing New Orleans culture’s diversity. From handcrafted art pieces and jewelry to delicious cuisine and specialty items, you’ll find gifts that truly reflect our city’s rich heritage. These personalized gifts carry a special significance, making your holiday presents more memorable and meaningful.

Soon after the Thanksgiving Holiday, make it a point to enjoy the Christmas vibes in the French Quarter and take a day with a friend to stroll the six blocks of retail stores of the French Market. From the Upper Pontalba stores, the Shops of the Colonnade, all the way to the flea market, you will find art galleries, clothing stores, toy shops, home decor, handmade jewelry, and everything in between, finding New Orleans-infused gifts wherever you shop.

Enjoy coffee and beignets during your shopping break, or dine at a new restaurant. Take pictures with the holiday decor and the French Quarter as your backdrop and make your local shopping a whole experience. Do not overlook the delicious food at the farmer’s market restaurants when you visit the local artisans and find unique handmade gifts in the flea market.

This holiday season, let’s come together as a community to shop local, preserve our traditions, and ensure a prosperous future for our beloved city. In doing so, we’ll experience the true spirit of New Orleans during the holidays, and our celebrations will be more prosperous, more meaningful, and filled with the love and character that only local businesses can provide.

Para artículo en español clic aquí: ¡Esto es Bananas! B-A-N-A-N-A-S

By Axel Lola Rosa

I have the privilege of being a first-generation Latino in New Orleans. I get the best of every type of bean here. On Mondays, we have our traditional red beans and rice; on any other day, we have arroz y frijoles (Honduran rice and beans cooked by my mom). Since 2012, I’ve worked with tourists in the French Quarter and surrounding areas and even lived out of state. I proudly say I was born at Charity and raised in Metairie to Honduran Immigrants. I emphasize the Honduran part to make it known that a solid Honduran presence in New Orleans dates back to the early 1900’s. 

Growing up here, I noticed at a young age that the media talked about Honduras or its surrounding countries only if there was a Hurricane or something very wrong; go figure. I also noticed that Miami was “referred to” as Cuban, Texas as Mexican, and New York as Puerto Rican because of each city’s history with those countries. So why hasn’t anyone discussed the connection between New Orleans and Honduras? 

When you hear the words Banana Republic, you think of the multi-million dollar clothing brand owned by Gap, Inc., Right? But did you know that the Banana Republic is a real thing? Like about, you guessed it, BANANAS, B-A-N... How did it begin the history and relationship between the cities of New Orleans and Honduras? To be clear, I’m only discussing the “Banana” part and not the “Republic” part. 

Since New Orleans has a well-established port, it all began with popular produce brands that we’ve most likely all had in our kitchen: Chiquita, formerly known as the United Fruit Company, and the Standard Food Company, were based in New Orleans. For decades, New Orleans has imported and distributed Cavendish Bananas from Central America to all over the U.S. In the early 20th Century, these two companies created close ties, specifically with Honduras. Eventually, these companies bought land for plantations. They hired Hondurans as dockyard workers who decided to stay in New Orleans, making our city an entry point for Hondurans migrating to the U.S. Aside from the employment opportunities, many chose to settle in this region due to the heavy influence of Catholic culture. Some sent their children to Catholic Schools in New Orleans, and many stayed upon completing their studies. Besides Honduras itself, by 1962, New Orleans had the world’s largest population of Hondurans.

Over time, the population expanded further out of the city and into surrounding areas such as Kenner and the Westbank. According to NOLA.com, in 2010, Jefferson Parish had the fourth-largest Honduran population by county in the United States. In 2021, The Data Center analysis of the U.S. Census Bureau data from the American Community Survey 2021 reported that 36% of the Hispanic Origin in Jefferson Parish identified as Honduran, 21% in Orleans, and 32% in the Metro Area within an estimated 1.1 million Hispanics of Honduran origin living in the United States. Overall, according to brcitykey.com, Hispanics make up 7% of the population in Louisiana. Most recently, Parish President Cynthia Lee Sheng mentioned in an interview that about 63,000 Hispanics make up 18% of the people in Jefferson Parish.  

Today, we see the influence of Honduras everywhere in our local community. We see cars with Honduras stickers or flags and find imported Honduran products. We see Honduran-owned and branded businesses. We enjoy frequent events featuring native Honduran bands like La Banda Blanca or Los Rolands. Even events honoring the Virgin of Suyapa, the Patron Saint of Honduras, occur at Divine Mercy Church in Kenner. These influences have maintained Honduran traditions that have helped shape not only the Latino Community in this city but also New Orleans itself.

Para artículo en español, click aquí: Latinas Supporting Entrepreneurs at the WB Collective

By AnaMaria Bech

The WB Collective is a woman-focused coworking space created by the Women’s Business Enterprise Council South (WBEC South), and it is more than just a workplace; it’s a community where women from diverse backgrounds come together to share their expertise, support one another’s endeavors, and spark groundbreaking ideas. The beautifully designed and thoughtfully curated space, located at 401 St. Joseph Street in New Orleans, exudes an atmosphere of collaboration and creativity.

 At the WB Collective, diversity isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a guiding principle. Two Latinas play pivotal roles on the team. Katerine García, the Director of Operations of the WBEC South, brings her extensive experience in supplier diversity, always finds ways to connect women, and provides mentorship and growth opportunities for their companies. “We have built a strong community of women who understand and support each other’s challenges and aspirations,” says Katherine.

Karla López-Gammage is the Director of the WB Collective. She ensures that entrepreneurs have everything they need to work and thrive and that events become memorable. As Karla says, “Social expectations and mentorship opportunities are major hurdles to success for women,” she believes “being in a space that understands how much of a disadvantage women business owners are in helps the woman entrepreneur in so many ways.” 

Katherine and Karla represent the broader spirit of the WBEC South, which aims to empower women entrepreneurs of all backgrounds and break down barriers for women executives and CEOs. Their stories are a testament to the incredible potential of diverse perspectives in driving innovation and success.

Beyond its coworking memberships, mailboxes, luxury common spaces, private offices, dedicated desks, and smart meeting rooms, the WB Collective boasts a stunning event space for rent.  “When women are surrounded by leaders like themselves, in a setting like ours, they feel inspired rather than the need to be competitive,” adds Karla.

This versatile venue has become a destination for hosting seminars, workshops, and networking events. Its charming architectural details and modern amenities make it the perfect place to host gatherings that inspire collaboration and growth.

“When you’re seeking an opportunity to connect, think of the WB Collective as your go-to resource,” says Katherine.  Whether you’re looking for a workspace that inspires creativity, reflects your innovative personality, connects you to resources to grow personally and professionally, and helps leverage your network, or if you are ready to host an event in a stunning venue for your next event, the WB Collective has it all, making it a hub for empowerment and entrepreneurship in the Warehouse District of New Orleans.

To book a tour and learn more about the WB Collective in New Orleans or Nashville, contact Karla at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..