A Journey of Resilience, Identity, and Innovation
In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, PSI shines a light on the inspiring stories of Hispanic women in STEM. Angela “Anji” Lopez, PSI’s Director of Technology Consulting and Business Development, shares her journey as she navigates the challenges and triumphs as a Hispanic woman in tech. Anji’s unique perspective and determination have shaped her career, and PSI’s commitment to diversity and inclusion supports her success.
Influence of Early Experiences and Identity Challenges
Growing up in Columbus, Ohio, during the ’80s and ’90s, Anji faced unique identity challenges as a Hispanic woman. With a Hispanic population of just 1-1.3%, she often felt the pressure to blend in. Frequent moves, first due to her father’s job and later her parents’ divorce, taught her adaptability but also isolated her from her heritage.
“I was always the new kid from someplace else. In both inner-city and suburban schools, kids just didn’t know what to do with me,” Anji said. “I was never even aware of any differences until 4th grade in the inner-city schools, when they asked me, ‘Are you mixed?’ where they had to explain that it means your parents come from different ethnic backgrounds.” It wasn’t until after high school that Anji connected with the local Hispanic community, giving her a sense of belonging and pride in her roots.
Role Models and Mentors: Representation Matters
Throughout her life, Anji found inspiration and support from various sources. The rise of prominent Hispanic figures like Jennifer Lopez made her aware of her heritage’s potential.
“My surname seemed to be the thing that always got attention and questions, so when Jennifer Lopez emerged with her role in ‘U Turn’ and then ‘Selena,’ seeing a leading Lopez on the big screen was a big deal! Now my future felt brighter with more possibilities,” she said.
Meeting Carlos Gutierrez, a successful Venezuelan restaurateur in Columbus, helped her connect deeply with the Hispanic community. Additionally, mentors like Brian Watson and Jennifer Bleen played pivotal roles in her career, encouraging her participation and leadership in local tech groups like TechLife Columbus.
“You can find inspiration and support from many places. I’ve found a combination of influence from my family, teachers who were always an anchor when moving around a lot, and people from many communities who have impacted me positively,” she said.
The Importance of Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives
Anji advises young Hispanic women entering tech to embrace their heritage and leverage the traits of hard work, resilience, and adaptability inherent in their culture. Building strong support networks and seeking mentors is crucial for guidance and encouragement.
PSI champions diversity and inclusion, fostering a culture where employees like Anji can thrive. This inclusive environment allows colleagues to connect on a personal level, promoting empathy and understanding.
“For the first time, I can bring my full self to work, a testament to the company’s commitment to inclusivity,” Anji said. “Our initiatives, focused on mentorship, career development, and creating a supportive environment for minority women, connect with me on a very personal level.”
Future of Diversity in Tech
For Hispanic women looking to get involved in the tech field, Anji recommends actively participating in professional groups, seeking mentors, and building relationships based on mutual respect and support. “My advice to young Hispanic women aspiring to enter the tech field is to embrace their heritage and the positive traits it brings. The hard work and perseverance ingrained in our culture, coupled with resilience and adaptability, are invaluable assets in the tech field,” Anji said.
The future of diversity in tech depends on continued efforts to create inclusive environments. Companies like PSI foster this by promoting respect and encouraging diverse perspectives. Valuing the unique contributions of Hispanic individuals will drive innovation and growth in the industry. PSI’s dedication to inclusion and respect is evident in their initiatives that seek to create a welcoming workplace for all employees. For more information, visit www.psi92.com.