We are thankful our summer interns are part of our team! We aim to provide young Latinas with an opportunity to learn more about how they can serve in public service and how to support those who wish to run for elected office. Take a few minutes to learn more about our communications intern, Karla Bobadilla, and research intern, Isabella Diaz. 

Q: What inspired you to join Latinas Represent, and what are you most excited to learn or achieve during your internship?

Karla:
I joined Latinas Represent to support their mission of uplifting Latina changemakers in politics, recognizing the need for greater diversity. I’m eager to learn more about politics and contribute to a politically focused non-profit. Additionally, I look forward to using my visual communication design skills to contribute to their social media and marketing.

Isabella:
I was inspired to join Latinas Represent because of its mission to support Latinas running for public office. Latinas are not monolithic; we are diverse and unique in our voice. I am excited to research all Latina candidates and investigate the change they want to create for their communities. It is empowering to see how Latinas in public office may influence other Latinas through power, mobilization, and political participation.

Since completing Dr. Ali Valenzuela’s class Latinos in U.S. Politics, I have been greatly intrigued to learn more about the power and influence the “Latino vote” has on our society. My goal with Latinas Represent is to help inspire our Latina community to see this happen.

Q: How has your cultural background influenced your choice of major and career aspirations?

Karla:

My vibrant Latine community has always inspired my creativity and passion for art. This led me to pursue a degree in Communication Design, where I can merge creativity with purpose. I am excited to explore the intersection of art and social impact, channeling my enthusiasm for social justice through innovative design solutions.

Isabella:
Growing up in Jackson Heights, New York City, I have immense love and pride for my Latino culture. Jackson Heights is my happy place because there, I get to eat delicious arepas and raspados, witness immigrant-owned businesses support one another, and spot people dancing cumbia on 34th Ave. Here, I get to see my community be strong and connected.

As someone who wants my community to thrive, I care about the health disparities that my community faces. For this reason, I want to pursue a career in migrant health to protect my community. Through my career, I want to conduct research that can inform policy. This is especially important since Latinos are now the second largest and fastest growing ethnicity in the United States, yet continue to be underrepresented in health and policy. My love for Jackson Heights fuels my dedication to helping other Latino communities like my own.

Q: Why is the issue of Latina representation in politics (and beyond) important to you?

Karla:

Latina representation in politics is crucial because we need leaders who truly reflect and champion the values of their communities. Women, especially women of color, are underrepresented in positions of power despite being deeply impacted by laws and policies. Latinas bring unique experiences and perspectives that can drive equitable change and improve the communities they serve. For instance, the overturning of Roe v. Wade highlights the existing disparities in healthcare access. Women of color already face significant barriers to equitable healthcare, and an abortion ban further limits their reproductive choices and healthcare options.

Isabella:
Latina representation in politics is important because many people, such as myself, did not grow up seeing Latinas being in positions of power. Although we may not realize it, many Latinas were not conditioned to think about running for public office and believe that public officials care to serve our community’s interests. However, Latinas in public office encourage me to think the opposite. They empower me to know that public office can also be my future. 

Beyond that, Latinas in public office have the power to influence, mobilize, and increase community power. Latina representation in public office is the first step to ensuring that we are also represented in healthcare, the economy, education, etc. Therefore, Latina voices are the power needed to make positive change. 

Q: As a college student, what advice do you have for other Latinas navigating college and internships?

Karla:
As a college student, I advise other Latinas navigating college and internships to build healthy relationships in their personal and professional life because a strong sense of community will allow them to thrive. Remember, it’s okay to feel overwhelmed by the need to balance school, work, and life because we are navigating systems that were not originally designed with us in mind. Embrace change, even when it’s uncomfortable, and seek opportunities that align with your values and goals. If something no longer aligns with your needs, do not hesitate to change course and find a better path.

Isabella:
As a Latina en acción, I encourage others to also become Latinas en acción! A Latina in acción takes action to be college-ready because none of us are born with professional development skills, such as cover letter and resume writing, networking, etc.

I encourage you to actively seek resources and mentors at your college to help you grow. For example, I registered myself in a professional development class, went to the career center, went to the writing center for my internship writing samples, asked Latine faculty for career advice, and sought interviews with professionals in my field. Being a 24/7 Latina en acción is difficult, so knowing when to rest and care for your well-being is essential. 

Q: What are some of your interests, hobbies, and/or extracurricular activities?

Karla:

I enjoy capturing the beauty of nature through photography, finding inspiration in every scene. I plan to pick up violin lessons again because I enjoyed playing the violin in elementary school. I enjoy reading a good book or playing a video game to relax now and then. Also, I love trying new food places with my family and friends.

Isabella:
At seven years old, I began training in Bolivian folkloric dance. I have always enjoyed it because I love the sound of Bolivian instruments such as the zampoña and charango. I also enjoy getting dressed for dance because the outfits are so glamorous, and I braid shiny thread into my hair to have tulmas. While I dance, I am overjoyed to see all the Bolivians proudly waving their flag during the parades. 

I love my familia at American University, so I aim to create community, mentorship, and advocacy for us on campus. As Vice President of Latinos En Acción, I

love coordinating events centered around our culture, such as social dance nights and events to help build advocacy and awareness, such as National Immigrants Day of Resilience Week. Latinos En Acción gives me a great sense of belonging and allows me to be a hermana to many.