Can you give me some background info on yourself? Age, birthplace, where you grew up, etc.
I was born and raised in New York City and I’m 38 years old.
What are some suggestions you have for aspiring journalists?
If you’re interested in writing, you must write all the time. It’s also important to read as much as possible so you can get familiar with all the different forms of writing—from interviews with people to film reviews. It’s the only way to decide what kind of writing you’re most interested in. Once you graduate and start working, you can’t just do the minimum and expect to get noticed. It’s always better to ask for more responsibility at work, it shows that you want to get promoted.
What do you like most about your job?
I love that we get to tell stories that will inform, entertain and inspire readers.
What are some obstacles you have faced in this business? Did people treat you differently because you were a Latina?
I never felt anyone treated me differently because I was Latina. However, there aren’t many Latinas or other people of color in the magazine business. It’s something I’m always aware of, and I’m doing my best to make sure our numbers increase by grooming young writers and editors.
Do you have any memorable celebrity interviews? Can you give us any insight on some our favorite Latino celebrities?
I only interview people I respect so it’s always fun to sit down with them. Since I’ve interviewed Jennifer Lopez many times, she’s especially a favorite. I’m always amazed by her dedication to keep growing as a brand and as a woman.
How was it working with VIBE, the urban hip-hop culture magazine? What do you think about its recent closing?
VIBE was an amazing experience—I worked there for 13 years! I learned so much from all the amazing editors and writers who made that magazine such an important contribution to urban culture. It was just purchased by new owners and I’m excited to see its relaunch.
What motivated you to work for Latina magazine?
I welcomed the opportunity to build on its legacy as the first lifestyle, fashion and beauty magazine for Latinas in English. It’s important for Latinas to have a place where their stories are told from their very unique perspective.
What are some changes you made to the magazine and why?
Since Latinas love fashion and beauty, we decided to divide those categories into two sections instead of one as it was previously. Also, we added pages to our Cultura section since it’s very popular. We’re also working with some great photographers and we’ve updated the design of the magazine to feel young, edgy and cool.
I have heard that you are the youngest editor at Latina?
Actually, no, I’m not the youngest editor. I was one of the youngest editors at Vibe, when I worked there.
My spirit, more than age, influences my work. I like to stay as connected to youth culture as possible, it helps me forecast trends and stories that I believe will appeal to our readers.
Your bio says that you are, "committed to editorial content that is closely aligned with the varied, bicultural interests of the magazine’s readers" and that you "strongly believe that infusing Latina with diversity is critical to the magazine’s mission." Can give me some examples of ways you address biculturalism and diversity in the magazine, and why it's important?
Latinas come in all shades and we’re committed to showing that in our pages. And since we’re made up of diverse cultures, from Mexican to Cuban, we make sure to address everyone’s interests in our content. Whether it’s stories about political upheaval in Honduras to the best mofongo in Florida, we have something for everyone.
What do you think is the biggest issue affecting Latinas today?
Although there is no typical Latina, many stereotypes still exist today about us. I’d like to see us continue to shatter negative perceptions about our culture.
Anything else you'd like to add?
Never stop learning! Look at everything as an opportunity to increase your knowledge. The more you know, the more successful you will be.
