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Listen "A Latina's Journey from PR to Cybersecurity with Ariana Flores"
Episode Synopsis
In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Ariana Flores, a Latina woman who took a bold leap from her public relations background into cybersecurity. Prepare to be captivated as Ariana shares her unconventional path, breaking through barriers and defying stereotypes.
You'll discover how Ariana taught herself SQL, and get her invaluable tips on gamifying the learning process to stay motivated and engaged. Ariana's story is a testament to the power of preparation, networking, and embracing failure as a stepping stone to success.
But that's not all – Ariana also opens up about her involvement with Latinas in Tech, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering and supporting Latina women in the tech industry. Learn how she helped revitalize the Miami chapter, creating a safe space for networking, mentorship, and entrepreneurial ventures.
Whether you're a woman considering a career pivot, an aspiring tech professional, or simply seeking inspiration, this episode is a must-listen. Ariana's candid insights on imposter syndrome, finding your authentic voice, and leveraging your unique background will leave you feeling empowered and ready to take on new challenges.
About Ariana:
Originally from Venezuela, Ariana has been charting an international career path in the technology industry at Carnival, XPO Logistcs, Focal Point Data Risk, CDW and more recently as a Senior Cybersecurity Consultant at BCG. Here, she has expanded her expertise in Cyber Risk management and data privacy as part of the Technology and Digital Advantage Practice across industries. Before pivoting to tech, Ariana helped consult luxury hospitality and entertainment brands as a Public Relations specialist. She is a double graduate from Florida International University with a Bachelors in Communications ('15) and a Masters in Information Systems Management ('18).
Bridging cultures and building community is a passion of hers, which naturally paved the way for her involvement in BCG's Women in TDA committee and in the #MiamiTech movement. In 2021, Ariana joined the Miami Chapter of Latinas in Tech as a chapter leader to empower latinas in her community to reach their goals in the tech industry. She has also served as a member of the Florida International University Young Alumni Association Executive Committee.
Follow Ariana on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arianaflores1874/
Latinas in Tech is on a mission to create equitable representation of Latinx women at all levels in the tech ecosystem. The group is composed of more than 18,000 women, representing more than 26 countries, working at more than 200 of the top technology companies. The group began in Silicon Valley in 2014 and has since then expanded to 19 additional chapters in Atlanta, Austin, Boston, Canada, Chicago, Dallas Ft-Worth, Denver, Houston, London, Los Angeles, Madrid, Mexico, Miami, New York City, Sacramento, São Paulo, Seattle, Utah, and Washington DC.
Latinas in Tech focuses on 3 key pillars: professional development, recruiting, and mentorship. The Miami Chapter launched in 2018 and re-launched in October 2021, catching the momentum of #MiamiTech.
Latinas in tech website: https://latinasintech.org/
You'll discover how Ariana taught herself SQL, and get her invaluable tips on gamifying the learning process to stay motivated and engaged. Ariana's story is a testament to the power of preparation, networking, and embracing failure as a stepping stone to success.
But that's not all – Ariana also opens up about her involvement with Latinas in Tech, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering and supporting Latina women in the tech industry. Learn how she helped revitalize the Miami chapter, creating a safe space for networking, mentorship, and entrepreneurial ventures.
Whether you're a woman considering a career pivot, an aspiring tech professional, or simply seeking inspiration, this episode is a must-listen. Ariana's candid insights on imposter syndrome, finding your authentic voice, and leveraging your unique background will leave you feeling empowered and ready to take on new challenges.
About Ariana:
Originally from Venezuela, Ariana has been charting an international career path in the technology industry at Carnival, XPO Logistcs, Focal Point Data Risk, CDW and more recently as a Senior Cybersecurity Consultant at BCG. Here, she has expanded her expertise in Cyber Risk management and data privacy as part of the Technology and Digital Advantage Practice across industries. Before pivoting to tech, Ariana helped consult luxury hospitality and entertainment brands as a Public Relations specialist. She is a double graduate from Florida International University with a Bachelors in Communications ('15) and a Masters in Information Systems Management ('18).
Bridging cultures and building community is a passion of hers, which naturally paved the way for her involvement in BCG's Women in TDA committee and in the #MiamiTech movement. In 2021, Ariana joined the Miami Chapter of Latinas in Tech as a chapter leader to empower latinas in her community to reach their goals in the tech industry. She has also served as a member of the Florida International University Young Alumni Association Executive Committee.
Follow Ariana on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arianaflores1874/
Latinas in Tech is on a mission to create equitable representation of Latinx women at all levels in the tech ecosystem. The group is composed of more than 18,000 women, representing more than 26 countries, working at more than 200 of the top technology companies. The group began in Silicon Valley in 2014 and has since then expanded to 19 additional chapters in Atlanta, Austin, Boston, Canada, Chicago, Dallas Ft-Worth, Denver, Houston, London, Los Angeles, Madrid, Mexico, Miami, New York City, Sacramento, São Paulo, Seattle, Utah, and Washington DC.
Latinas in Tech focuses on 3 key pillars: professional development, recruiting, and mentorship. The Miami Chapter launched in 2018 and re-launched in October 2021, catching the momentum of #MiamiTech.
Latinas in tech website: https://latinasintech.org/
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