Celebrating is also leading: my reflection after receiving the Latino Women's Awards

A few years ago, I struggled to give myself credit. I worked tirelessly, achieved results, but rarely stopped to celebrate. There was always another goal, an urgency, a new challenge. Until I understood something key: celebrating is also leading. Recognizing the journey traveled is a source of energy, confidence, and vision to keep moving forward.

This year, I had the honor of being recognized as one of the 50 most influential Latina women in Australia, as part of the Latino Women’s Awards in Brisbane. A deeply symbolic event, not only for the award, but for what it represents: a community that rises together, recognizing the impact of women who migrate, start businesses, lead, and open paths for others.

Migrating was just the beginning...

I arrived in Australia with dreams, yes, but also with uncertainty. A suitcase full of hopes and the need to adapt, learn, and build from scratch. It wasn’t easy. It’s not easy. But if there is one thing that defines me, it’s perseverance and the deep conviction that every challenge can be transformed into an opportunity when faced with purpose and strategy.

Over the years, I’ve had the fortune of co-founding and leading Entrelingo Group, a migration solutions ecosystem designed for those, like me, who once needed clear, empathetic, and professional guidance to move forward. We map out real migration paths and walk them alongside our clients, from professional document translation to full support in Skills Assessment processes, never forgetting strategic, human migration advice with tangible results.

Our purpose goes beyond paperwork: we help people transform their lives, migrate with clarity and confidence, and build new opportunities in Australia.

Receiving this recognition reminds me of why we do what we do.

It’s not just about a trophy or a nice photo — although I took many, I confess. It’s about giving visibility to the stories that matter. To the women who work day in and day out for their families, their businesses, their communities. To the achievements that are often taken for granted. It’s about telling ourselves and those who come after us that it is possible.

I celebrate this recognition.Because I deserve it.Because it cost me.Because it inspires.Because it opens doors.And because it’s a sign that we are on the right path.

This achievement also belongs to my team!

I want to take this opportunity to share this joy and achievement with the women in my team. More than 70% of the people at Entrelingo are women. And that’s no coincidence. I trust in their talent, their resilience, and their creativity. I know that when a woman leads, she transforms. And I am proud to surround myself with so many brave, committed, and brilliant women who make what we are today possible.

To those who have been with me, thank you.To those who are just getting to know me, welcome. I am here to help. To share. To keep building bridges.

If you’re dreaming of growing in Australia, formalizing your experience, and finding a way forward, you can count on me and my team. Therefore, I want to invite you next Friday, May 23rd, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., to be part of the Latina Women's Empowerment Conference at Level 2/315 Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006. It will be a unique opportunity to connect, share experiences, and strengthen our Latina community in Australia.

This event not only celebrates our achievements, but also motivates us to continue growing together. It's an opportunity to inspire each other, learn from the success stories of other Latinas, and recognize the power of our voice in this country. Space is limited; register here to be part of this wonderful event.

From my personal experience, I have learned that every step we take as a community has a profound impact, and today, I want to invite you to be part of this space where we will celebrate our victories and continue paving the way for others. May we continue transforming our lives and our communities!

We’ve done it before. And we will keep doing it, better every time.

With love, Mafe Garcia Business Development Director Entrelingo Group