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HISPANIC NETWORK MAGAZINE www.hnmagazine.com
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eginning each year on September 15 and coming to a close on October 15, National Hispanic Heritage Month is an opportunity to recognize, honor and uplift the multitude of accomplishments and contributions that Hispanic individuals have made and continue to make. At the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC), we are proud to spotlight our Hispanic LGBT Business Enterprises (LGBTBE) that are leading the way in their respective fields! This month, we interviewed three Hispanic Certified LGBTBE owners about their entre- preneurial journeys and businesses.
Recognizing Hispanic LGBTQ+ Businesses
By Sarah Jester
Let it Roar Creative
Founded by Megan Rojas , Let it Roar Creative is a Florida-based design studio. [We focus] on creative storytelling, print and digital design, 2D/3D animation, immer- sive experiences, themed entertainment, vid- eography/photography and UX/UI design, explained Rojas. Let it Roar Creative works on projects for a wide variety of clients, including those in live entertainment, sports, museums, educa- tion, art galleries and more. Rojas attributes her companys success and uniqueness to both the cultural and career diversity that comprise her team. We have team members who have worked on feature films, tv shows, live shows at Walt Disney World and other themed experiences, as well as, projects weve done in South Africa, Latin America and Canada, she said. Rojas obtained NGLCCs LGBTBE cer- tification for Let it Roar Creative in order to find community, support and networking opportunities. Her certification has helped her to increase the visibility of her work to larger corporations that are pushing for increased supplier diversity and inclusion. It's difficult at times to break through the walls of corporate America without distin- guishing yourself in some way, and without having true advocates to be a voice for you within their organizations, Rojas said. When asked what advice she would provide to aspiring Hispanic LGBT entrepreneurs, Rojas suggested leaning into what makes you different. Our culture, our history, the struggles of our communities, as well as our triumphs are what help fuel the passion that makes us mag- netic and unique, she explained. Its truly a gift to be a member of the Hispanic com- munity and the LGBT community because it gives us a perspective that allows us to bet- ter understand the needs and desires of those that we serve. We can be more creative in the products and services we offer and cater to a
LET IT ROAR CREATIVE
more globally diverse community and break the mold of mainstream companies.
Kikos Coffee & Tea
Located in Revere, Mass., Kikos Coffee & Tea is an importer and distributor of coffee and tea, particularly from Colombia, to a vari- ety of grocery stores, supermarkets and other retailers. The company kickstarted with a sin- gle coffee product in 2019 and now boasts 24 different coffees, 15 teas and more. When asked what was unique about his business, founder Juan Arroyave discussed the importance of having a positive impact on his community. Even though we are a small business, we strive to give back to our community, he said. Every day should be the day to thank those around us. Our family and friends, clients, vendors, colleagues, even those that have challenged us along the way, because thanks to all of them, we are who we are now. The Kikos Coffee & Tea Foundation not only encourages customers to donate to selected nonprofits and foundations during
KIKOS COFFEE & TEA
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