Blog

As Technology professionals, we are usually making decisions, solving problems  and working in Teams to accomplish business goals. However, sometimes our Team is not optimized for high performance, innovation and achievements. This is where Diversity and Inclusion play a fundamental role. But, what is the meaning of those two terms?

Diversity refers to human differences. They could be related to gender, race, age, ethnicity, religion, physical ability, education, experience, personality, or others. A working environment is diverse when the teams have diversity in its members. However, inclusion goes a step further, and it is not only counting with a diverse team, but also creating an organizational climate that foster collaboration, support and respect for these differences.

In diverse and inclusive organizations, everyone wins, as employees learn to collaborate, whereas the organization accomplish its goals in a more efficient manner:

1. Creativity and Product Development – Software development is a highly collaborative process. Developers should work in Teams. A diverse Team is more likely to solve problems because they have different point of views, but rather than argue, they work for a common objective. They are able to see problems from different angles and build a solution that addresses them all. That way, better products and better services are designed and implemented. Diverse teams use creativity to achieve more, more efficiently
2. Happier environment and employee engagement – People with different backgrounds and lifestyles challenge each other more. A great leader will take benefit of diversity to promote creativity and innovation, where ideas are considered and everyone participates in decision-making. This workplace environment makes employees feel happier and acomplished. They feel as a valued member of a Team which will lead to employee engagement and loyalty to the Brand.
3. Learning and Personal Growth – In diverse and inclusive organizations, the leadership mission includes programs that help teams to work collaborately, respect people’s opinion, brainstorm new ideas, and look for a common benefit for the organization. Programs like Women in Technology encourage the development and participation of women in the technology field through mentorship, role modeling, training and networking.

COVID- 19 impacted everybody and Hispanotech was not the exception. Our in-person events were canceled, and as the Director of Events, my role was to move and switch our strategy to the online world. We knew that this was coming, therefore last year we were testing some online functionalities to live broadcast some events, but the progress was slow; the need wasn’t there. However, the pandemic hit the world, and we, as everybody, had to adapt to this new normal and the online platform was not anymore an option, but the ONLY option.

As a result, since April, Hispanotech joined forces with TRIEC PINs and other Hispanic groups to create a series of FREE webinars to address the challenges of living in a Pandemic, as well as the opportunities for professional development during quarantine.

To achieve our mission during these times, we have organized 16 online events in the last 7 months featuring speakers from global corporations and covering leading-edge technology topics and essential soft skills to grow professionally. This includes webinars, workshops, discussion panels, and speed Mentoring events. From technical skills like 5G and excel to soft skills such as communication and creativity. From talking about Project Management certifications, Cybersecurity and Engineering licenses to Entrepreneurship. We have also addressed topics related to the new normal, what are our rights and duties in the workplace or how to keep current during this time, taking advantage of free E-learning opportunities.

With these online events, we hope to play an important role in assisting Newcomers in the challenging journey of integration into the Canadian labour markets during these times, and also help Hispanic professionals, already working in their field to advance their careers during the pandemic.

Take advantage of this time and join us in our free online events tailored for you! All our upcoming events are always updated in the following Link: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/upcoming-events-hispanotech-ca/

Also, to know about our latest events, make sure that you follow us on LinkedIn. We post them there.

Laura Bejarano

Director of Events

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) have finally taken the spotlight they deserve! Companies are more aware than ever that equity employment brings multiple benefits to their organizations and they are seeking ways to promote an inclusive workforce.

However, even though DEI are now front and center, an additional hurdle companies need to overcome while recruiting is something called unconscious bias. Unconscious bias can be understood as the collective subjective attitudes, stereotypes and prejudices we have in favour or against something or someone, and this is particularly critical when trying to hire for diversity. If companies succumb to judging candidates based on their interests, looks, accents, or other non-important elements of performance, they are likely to stick with a culture that lacks the depth they so desire.

But being “unaware that you are unaware” of your biases is very challenging. Fortunately, technology is here to help! There is some tech available now and there are some projects in the roaster, so here are three tech things to either apply now or watch out for in the future when hiring for diversity:

1. Leverage your own technology
2. Use artificial intelligence
3. Look out for robots!

To learn more, watch our video on Tech and Unconscious Bias:

#HTechTrends #UnconsciousBias

“Discovering who you are is going to be the best journey of your life”

Have you ever asked yourself what I am good at? It is a simple question but not easy to answer. The reality is that since we have been aware of ourselves, one of the hardest things to do is to know our own strengths and abilities. Recent psychology studies suggest that there are 7 types of intelligence. 

Howard Gardner is an American psychologist that created the theory of multiple intelligences. His theory broke stereotypes about human intelligence and how it is measured. Gardner explains that each person has at least 1 of the following 7 types of intelligence: Logical/Mathematical, Linguistic, Musical, Spatial, Bodily-Kinesthetic, Interpersonal, and Interpersonal.

Unlike Gardner’s theory, there is a belief that people that are good at physics, science, and math are more intelligent or capable in contrast with people that are not good at those subjects. Gardner suggested that just one of the 7 intelligence is based on Math’s abilities. Some countries put a lot of attention on students with the best Math grades, they considered those students as talented and brilliant but what about the rest of the class? 

Schools are used to focusing on developing math and language strengths but what happens when some students cannot keep the goal rising and fail all attempts in math and languages. Gardner’s theory has been challenging the system education in Latin-American and American countries where the tendency is measuring the student’s intelligence with old fashioned metrics. 

Come with me and discover in the video the 7 types of intelligence and try to answer to yourself, what type of intelligence do you have? 

Try this easy quiz to find out your intelligence:

Take the quiz!

Using video for virtual meetings and webinars is very common these days, and seating in front of the camera seems to be easy and simple, right?

However, did you know that when you are on video, you are more exposed to make mistakes that may show a wrong, and sometimes embarrassing image of your personal brand?

Here are 6 tips to get prepared before your next virtual meeting and show your best side on camera:

1. Preparation: Ensure you have everything that you need for the meeting: A notebook and pen to take notes; Water; and even all the documents or software that you will need, especially if you will present or share ideas. Remember that you will remain seated for a long time, so go to the washroom, if needed. You don’t want to stand up in the middle of the meeting!
2. Environment: If you are at home, alert your family that you will be in a meeting so you minimize interruptions and unwanted noise. Find a location that is quiet from external noise, and comfortable.
3. Background: Maintain a genuine but organized background. Avoid clutter, dirt or embarrassing items!
4. Frame: Position your head at the center, horizontally; and at eye level with the camera.
5. Audio: Loud and clear. Use a quality microphone, and test it in advance. If you want privacy, use headphones. Audio is crucial for an effective communication
6. Lighting: Use soft lights in front of you to show the expressions in your face and eyes. Avoid dark or noisy lighting or lights that come from behind or above. In the absence of artificial lights, use natural light from a window in front of you.
7. Physical appearance: Keep casual and clean. Avoid stripes, colours or accessories that will be distracting. Present yourself as if you were in person.

With these tips you will be totally ready to show a great image on camera. But, this is just the beginning: Stay tuned for the second part in the series, where we will cover how to behave during a virtual meeting

If you liked this post, take a look at this short clip that summarizes the tips!

Gabriel Seminario

Director of Marketing

Creating Value Through Alliances

A month ago, in preparation for the annual AGM, I had the opportunity to reflect on what alliances and partnerships mean for our organization.  I would like to take this opportunity to expand on those reflections and share the direction the alliance committee will take this year. I define alliances as the relationship we establish with other organizations (educational, private, non-profits, etc.) with the intend to create value, generate new ideas, expand & enhance our services,  and generate opportunities for our members to stay current.

My goal is to ensure we bring alliances that will appeal to the diverse membership of our organization. This led me to analyze the background of our members and the data indicates our members belong to the following industries – 24% Financial Services, 20% IT Services/products, 12% Engineering, 10% Telecom and 4% Government.  With this background in mind, I would like to highlight three programs we plan for 2020:

• Focus on alliances with organizations from the Fintech sector almost 43% of our members are from finance and technology
• Collaborate with organizations that would provide services (language programs, bridging programs, career advise programs…etc.) at no cost to our members.
• Friends of Hispanotech – this program seeks to showcase Hispanic business owners. The idea is to inspire our members to see themselves not only as supporting business but also think about generating jobs opportunities by becoming business owners.

When I took over the role of Director of Alliances, it was a one person show. In 2020, I am happy to work with a group of volunteers, who will bring new ideas & energy and help execute the plan.

The rapidly evolving situation with COVID-19 is proving to be challenge for our usual practice of meetings in person. We will explore collaborations (e.g. with providers of virtual meeting platform) that will help us continue to function and keep our members engaged.

I am excited about the opportunities and challenges this year brings to our members and I am committed to bringing alliances that will mutually benefit our members and partners. Looking forward to a productive 2020.

Gabriela Roca Vasquez

I joined Hispanotech shortly after my arrival in Canada. Five years in, I’d like to share my experience and some pointers that are hopefully helpful for our readers.

For newcomers, it is especially tough finding a job in their field or seniority level, mostly due to the hassle of building new local professional networks. There are plenty of associations avidly working towards achieving a truly diverse and inclusive job market, where we all can thrive regardless of age, gender, nationality or personality type.

Hispanotech is a professional network, founded ten years ago with a mandate to support Hispanic professionals in Canada. They do so by organizing networking events, providing learning, volunteering and development opportunities, and showcasing their member’s achievements, with the occasional social gathering.

Hispanotech also facilitates a mentorship program that pairs up experienced individuals with newcomers that need help integrating into the job market, transitioning into a new position, or advancing their career. As part of this program, I had the opportunity to mentor a smart, talented, kind and resourceful Colombian professional.

It was such an exciting and fulfilling opportunity. I recommend joining as a mentee to anyone struggling to find a job in their field, or at all. And I would suggest joining as a mentor to experienced professionals with the willingness to give back and help new immigrants navigate the intricacies of the Canadian job market. Everyone learns in the process. I’m proud to be a member of this community. Join today! There’s plenty of ways to get the support you need to overcome your professional challenges.

Author, Citlalli Rios, connect with me on www.linkedin.com/in/citlalli

It seems impossible to network these days since there are no more live career events or job fairs you can attend. Let me tell you that is not true. You can still keep on building your network using different tools that can help you connect with potential employers. Believe me, there are many professionals that are still willing to help even though they haven’t met you personally. It is also possible to find a new mentor or maintain contact with your previous one online.

We are living in times of high technology, in which people use social media frequently every day. These days most professionals you would like to reach out to are working from home, which in some ways may be an advantage. This means that they may have increased flexibility so as to be more likely to answer your message or call.

I would strongly recommend using LinkedIn (among others you like) to network. Recently, I have seen some posts of professionals who are willing to help building resumes or even reply to any doubt that you have regarding job searching. They know it is not an easy time for job seekers and they are there to help. You can also send messages to professionals you would like to network with.

Remember, the way you approach them is very important. In this message, you should state who you are professionally (something that can make a positive impact on them) and the reason why you want to connect with them (For this it is good to review their profile beforehand). Then you can ask kindly for a few minutes call instead of a coffee chat. Commenting on articles they create or share is also a very good way to connect. Besides, you can also create your own content and encourage participation. Finally, take a quick look at Eventbrite; they already created some virtual events which might be helpful for you.

To ensure you keep on building your network and have the right mentor we are working with the Hispanotech Mentorship team to deliver the program this year. We are evaluating different formats for the events as well as the calendar. Keep a look out for announcements on Hispanotech LinkedIn or website. We will give more details to coming soon!

STAY POSITIVE AND KEEP ON NETWORKING!

Evelyn Rodriguez

Director of Mentorship program

As you are aware, COVID-19 has been rapidly changing our lives, and all indications are that it will continue to do so for some time to come. As a result, we are all adapting our behaviors and plans in order to mitigate, confront, and eventually recover from this global crisis. At Hispanotech, we are also working hard to adapt and continue to offer value to our Members and to the community.

In person networking and events are not possible at this time, so we will start offering online webinars and virtual events starting in April. Do keep an eye on our schedule of upcoming events , which will include topics to help manage your career,  finances, and well being.

We are also reviewing our 2020 Mentorship program, to take into account the added difficulties Mentors and Mentees will find given the physical proximity restrictions, and the consequent economic stoppage and impact on the job market.

Planning for our CCX2020 Conference & Career Expo continues, however we will not announce a new target date until we have more clarity. This is a full day event with 32 sessions in 4 tracks, and an expected attendance of 700 people, so we have to make sure public health conditions will be propitious and safe.

This is a good time to stay connected and expand your network using social media channels. Through our LinkedIn you will be able to interact with our 2,000+ direct connections, as well as our 420,000+ second level connections. In fact, COVID-19 has shown us just how connected we all are; let’s make the best of it!

Regardless of the current challenges and uncertainty, we know the time for recovery will come, and it will also present increased needs and opportunities to come together and rebuild, and hopefully the world will be stronger and wiser than before.

Stay healthy and stay connected!

Hispanotech Board of Directors

Why do we need to focus and support Hispanic Women in Technology (WiT)?

According to Statistics Canada, 1 in every 5 women was born outside Canada.  In Toronto alone, more than half of women are immigrants. Spanish is the third most common language among female immigrants who had a mother tongue other than English and French. Given Hispanotech’s mission “to help Hispanic professionals to integrate and advance their careers in Canada”, it is not surprising that it has a team dedicated to empowering female Hispanic professionals in technology.  When offered with the opportunity to form part of the Board of Directors to support WiT, I immediately said yes!

My passion about helping women in tech, started after I graduated from University and got my first job. While I was a computer engineering student it was “normal” to be the only woman on a group of students. When I got a job in a big Telecom and was denied the opportunity to join the Radio Frequency Engineering team because “women should not be allowed to climb radio antennas” I was shocked. This was the trigger for me to make a conscious effort to ensure I would contribute to build workplaces where women would have the same opportunities as anybody else.

Then I became an immigrant and the equation got even more complicated. In my opinion, immigration is one of the most amazing opportunities that any human being can have: it makes your personal growth increase exponentially. Canada stands out from the places I have lived, as the one with the biggest impact on my understanding of who I am. Canadian society encourages people to be themselves and provides the means to integrate immigrants while respecting their uniqueness and valuing their diversity. Nevertheless, we also know the beginning is never easy – no one knows you or your capabilities. We need to start all over again.

On the same report of Statistics Canada, one-third of immigrant women between the ages of 25 to 54 has a university degree, compared to less than one-quarter of their Canadian-born counterparts. However Labour Force Survey data shows that immigrant women earned less and had a significantly higher rate of unemployment than Canadian-born women. The good news is that the rate of unemployment improved the longer the women immigrant resided in Canada. That’s why our goal at Hispanotech WiT is to reduce this period of unemployment; and in order to do so we focus on four pillars:

1. Mentoring: to help to successfully navigate the Canadian job market,
2. Connecting: through networking events,
3. Inspiring: showcase women as empowered leaders, and
4. Alliances: foster male allies and advocates who support women.

If you want to become part of WiT or learn more about our strategy, please contact someone from our group: Ana Lobo, Denisse Rodriguez, Maria Castellanos, Lina Florez, Donaji Gomez or me. Everyone is welcome!!!

References:

https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/75-006-x/2019001/article/00006-eng.htm

https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/75-006-x/2013001/article/11874-eng.htm

https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/89-503-x/2010001/article/11528-eng.htm