Those inspiring words came from female powerhouse, Nely Galan. In that same interview  with HuffPost Voces, she continues to stress that one of the most critical problems in society today is that Latinas are failing to consider themselves capable of managing their own businesses. She states that Latinas aren’t being equally represented as economic contributors, and it doesn’t help that they are keeping themselves out of the competition.

“Latinas are the economic emerging market in this country…”

Nely is encouraging Latinas to take advantage of the economic freedom this country offers, to participate and integrate themselves into not just the American economy, but politics and society in general.

Nely describes the Latina woman as a hard worker and very family oriented. The majority of Latina Millennials were raised by extremely strong, determined women; women who fought to ensure their children’s dreams could come true, and somehow lost sight of their own in the process. The obstacle that many Latinas face is breaking the barrier,  in other words, going against the traditional female roles.

Today, many women are successfully eliminating that stereotype, but have yet to fully overcome it. Nely insists that the key lies in not being afraid of failure. Women must embrace their struggles and hardships in order to help others who share similar experiences.

So where does this strand of change begin?

The Adelante Movement is for Latinas of all ages, not just within the Millennial generation.  Nely feels that Latinas aren’t taking advantage of all that is available to them, and the main reason is because they aren’t being informed of these opportunities and resources.

The Adelante Movement was her solution. She decided to launch a national campaign aimed at uniting and empowering Latinas on an economic platform.

On July 7th in Las Vegas at the NCLR (National Council de La Raza) Annual Conference, Nely kicked-off her 2012 The Adelante Movement: Tour sponsored by Coca Cola. This nationwide event will feature inspiring forums connecting Latinas to “jobs, start-up funding, entrepreneurial opportunities, and mentorships.” Their website serves as a digital archive, where Latinas will have access to information from various corporations and government agencies, as well as their local communities.

Nely is proud to provide Latinas with as much knowledge as possible, what they decide to do with it is up to them. She reminds them that success does not come overnight, and that before one wins, one must learn to lose.

She asserts that Latinas should continue to mobilize in a collective manner to accomplish their dreams, to support each other throughout the process, and to be the best role models they can be. As a Latina Millennial, I look up to these women. I can sincerely say I am proud of my Latin roots, and I look forward to someday inspiring others to reach their full potential as well.