Latino Leaders Speak: Personal Stories of Struggle and Triumph, Volume II

In his foreword to this collection of 26 inspirational pieces by important Latino leaders, editor Mickey Ibarra asserts that by sharing personal stories “we illuminate paths of possibility for future generations, shatter stereotypes and build bridges of understanding.”

Contributors share key moments that led to their eventual success, often despite difficult beginnings. Arturo Vargas, the CEO of the National Association of Latino Elected Officials (NALEO), notes the influence of his parents and the key principles they taught him: the importance of education, civic engagement and advocacy. Similarly, Brian Sandoval, former Nevada governor and the University of Nevada, Reno president, reminisces about the impact of his first job as a busboy at the federal courthouse’s cafeteria. He knew just by observing the lawyers and judges that he wanted to make a difference in people’s lives. When he applied for an internship in college, he learned a critical lesson: to achieve your dreams you must be willing to take risks and set yourself up for disappointment.

Originally presented at the Latino Leaders Luncheon Series in Washington, DC, and other major cities, the keynote addresses in this volume—which follows up on the first collection published in 2017—are written by a wide variety of people, including educators, business leaders and politicians. Contributors include Grammy Award-winning musician Emilio Estefan, Super Bowl-winning NFL coach Tom Flores and award-winning actor Edward James Olmos. Their words will encourage readers of all ages to follow their own dreams and give back to those less fortunate. “Our stories must be told,” Ibarra notes, “and now more than ever, they must be heard.” In the current politically charged environment, it is refreshing to read the decidedly impartial stories that highlight universal themes.