Mariana’s Career-Changing Conexión

Strengthening the Latino talent pipeline in Wisconsin begins with meaningful conexión. At HPGM, we see how one conversation, one introduction, or one act of courage can shift the path of a student or young professional. For Mariana Batalla, that moment happened at an HPGM networking event, where she stepped into the room hoping for clarity and walked out with a mentor who saw her potential and wanted to help her grow.

How HPGM Supports First Generation and Emerging Latino Professionals

Mariana was first introduced to HPGM through the student chapter at her university, where she soon stepped into leadership. As a student chapter leader, she helped build community, organize programs, and connect her peers to opportunities she wished she had earlier in her journey.

As a first-generation college student balancing school, work, and family, she often carried both ambition and uncertainty. HPGM’s Summits, networking events, and student programming gave her something essential. Access and comunidad. A place where she could meet professionals who understood her lived experiences and who had navigated similar cultural pressures and expectations.

She expected to make new connections. She did not expect to reconnect with someone from her past who would help shape her future.

A Brave Introduction That Opened a Door

Across the room, she recognized Dr. Victor Amaya. Years earlier, he had been a high school educator for members of her family. She remembered him from family gatherings when she was younger, but now she saw him again as a leader in the community.

Even though they were seated at different tables, Mariana chose to approach him after the event. Her decision to walk up and introduce herself was a bold step. Victor stayed, listened, and reconnected with her in a way that felt familiar and supportive. They quickly realized they shared similar experiences, including the challenges faced by undocumented students and the resilience needed to push through barriers.

That simple moment of conexión became the starting point of a mentorship that would guide her next steps.

How a Conexión Became a Full Time Role

At the time, Mariana was navigating a difficult job search filled with interviews that did not feel aligned with her values. Her parents encouraged her to talk with Victor for guidance. When they met for coffee, he listened closely to her goals, strengths, and frustrations.

Then something shifted. Victor realized he could help her gain real experience by offering her an internship at his nonprofit, Data You Can Use. Mariana applied, stepped into the role, and immediately proved she had the creativity, drive, organization, and cultural insight needed to excel.

Her internship soon evolved into a full-time position as Development and Communications Coordinator. For Mariana, this was more than a job. It was evidence that she belonged in the professional spaces she once questioned. It showed her that her story, skills, and lived experiences were strengths, not obstacles.

Why Her Story Matters for Wisconsin’s Future

Mariana’s journey reflects why HPGM invests in leadership development and culturally grounded conexiones. Her story matters for Wisconsin because:

She gained clarity, confidence, and community.
Her lived experience strengthened the organization she joined.
She represents the future of Wisconsin’s workforce, where Latino talent is already driving statewide growth.
Her success shows what becomes possible when young Latino leaders have access to opportunities that match their potential.

Stories like Mariana’s are not exceptions. They are the future. And they show why our region needs intentional support systems so emerging leaders can thrive and contribute to Wisconsin’s economic, cultural, and civic strength.

Be Part of the Next Moment of Conexión

As part of our 1,000 Moments of Conexión campaign, we invite you to help create more stories like Mariana’s. Your involvement and investment create opportunities for students and emerging professionals across Wisconsin.