There was a time in my life when I struggled with the duality of individuality and belonging. On one hand, I love my family, my friends, and enjoy the company of people. I have looked to belong somewhere for as long as I can remember. On the other, I have been different for equally as long, and I have embraced all that being distinct means.
I realized I was gay when I was 9 or 10 years old living in Cuba under the Castro regime. Despite my age, I sensed I would have to deal with the repercussions of my sexuality in an environment that did not feel welcoming. Still, I yearned for belonging even as my homosexuality and, later, my parents’ politics drove a wedge between me and my friends and some family.
Arriving in Spain in my mid-teens, I experienced another divide. Yes, I had ancestors in that country, but I was still different, with a different accent from another part of the world. Nevertheless, I found a small community, a family of friends with whom I remain connected.
In the US, I finally fully accepted who I was and embraced my cultural heritage. I came to understand that often being "the only" was both challenging and rewarding. Yes, there is a need to find those more like us, but it's also OK to accept the goft we each bring.
I believe my personal history has helped me value each individual I with whom I have come in touch. In business, I appreciate that I am part of a great network of
AlphaGraphics franchise owners. I also thrive pushing the boundaries of the franchise’s brand, embracing the individual perspectives of our Clients and employees, and possibilities of what we can do with visual communications.