2021 Hispanic Heritage Month Pt. 4: A Celebration of Hispanic Heritage and Hope

Although Hispanic Heritage Month is coming to an end on October 15^th, it doesn’t mean we have to stop celebrating our employee’s and learning about their heritage and what led them to their career in cybersecurity. Take a look at the conversation below with McAfee Enterprise, Joyce Moros-Nahim, LTAM Legal Director

What do you enjoy most about your heritage and what is one of your favorite memories growing up?

What I enjoy the most about being Hispanic is that we are very amiable. We are always exited to meet new people and have new experiences. One of my favorite memories growing up is all the time I spent with my family. It was never something my parents had to force my brother and I to do. We were always happy to hang out with our cousins, have lunch with our “abuelitos” (grandparents), and celebrate with our very large family.

How have Hispanic/LatinX individuals helped contribute to where you are today in life and career?

I have met and worked closely with many Hispanic and LatinX individuals and their enthusiasm and dedication for their chosen career along with their zest for life has taken them very far in both their home country and around the world. This has inspired me to keep pushing and take on every day with positivity and joy.

Why were you interested in a career in technology and how has your heritage played a role in where you are today?

I have always been interested in the technology industry because it changes every day and will be more prevalent as we move into the future. Having been born in a Latin American country (Venezuela), I was always intrigued in seeing how other countries evolved in this industry.

What do you hope to pass on to future generations?

I hope that future generations will continue to appreciate and partake in their cultural traditions. No matter which country a Latinx individual is from, they’re typically very family oriented, respectful, hardworking, and loving; which I hope will continue in future generations.  

What family traditions did you have growing up?

Visiting my grandmothers almost every day and having a Cafecito.  On Sundays, we would also go to church in our Sunday best and have lunch with the whole family. I always enjoyed this time because I would see my whole family and hear about their week. It kept us spiritually and physically united.

What are the three most important things that people should know about your culture?

Venezuelans are extremely hospitable, hardworking, and love to befriend people with different nationalities.

Define and describe the most important (or most celebrated) holiday of your culture.

The most celebrated holiday in my culture is New Year’s Eve. The families get together and have “hallacas” and pan de jamon, two traditional Venezuelan meals. As it is about to strike 12 AM, we each eat 12 grapes, symbolizing 12 wishes or resolutions we have for the upcoming year. Once it’s 12 AM, we all embrace and celebrate what is to come!

As the country continues to grow more diverse, what advice would you give to young Hispanic/LatinX individuals interested in starting a career in cybersecurity?

My advice to a young Hispanic/Latinx individual would be to gain experience in the field and to find a mentor with a similar heritage to guide and inspire you.

What are some of your ideas on how to attract more Hispanic/LatinX individuals to cybersecurity?

A great way to attract more Hispanic/LatinX people to cybersecurity is to have programs in Latin American countries that will teach children about technology and how it’s key in our everyday life.