Celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month: The Tale of Two Marias
National Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to honor the vibrant cultures, histories, and contributions of Hispanic and Latinx communities across the United States. At the Center for Elders' Independence (CEI), we are proud to celebrate this month by sharing the stories of two remarkable women, both named Maria Zamora.
These two Marias may share a name, but their journeys are unique, each making a meaningful impact in their own way. One is leader, steering the future of CEI as President and CEO, while the other is a passionate senior participant who enriches our community every day with her wisdom and cultural traditions.
Maria Zamora, President and CEO: A Journey of Leadership and Resilience
Maria Zamora, the President and CEO of CEI, whose journey to leadership is as inspiring as it is unexpected. In a recent interview, Maria reflected on how her Hispanic heritage has shaped her leadership style and vision for Senior Healthcare.
When asked about her journey, Maria began by explaining that her path to becoming a CEO was far from straightforward. "My journey was not like many CEO journeys," she said. "It was a little unexpected. I traveled a winding road." Maria’s first experience in healthcare began in high school when she participated in a summer hire program at the local hospital, where she worked in the basement as a file clerk. "This was back when they actually had paper files," she laughed. "I had a little stool and would roll from one end of the files to the other."
Her first job in healthcare sparked a passion that would guide her future career, but it wasn’t her first job ever. "My first job was at a Mexican restaurant," Maria recalled. However, her love for healthcare persisted, and she continued working in the field after high school. She started as an administrative assistant in the business office of a hospital where she was born, a meaningful connection that underscored the sense of community that would later define her leadership style.
Maria described her career progression as "a series of taking on different jobs and challenges," a process that was not without its difficulties. She also followed a non-traditional path in her education, working and attending school part-time, often juggling multiple responsibilities. "I was on my own from a pretty young age, so it took me a very long time to finish my degree," she shared. "But I did it while working at the hospital."
This progression from a support role to high-level management allowed Maria to gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare industry from the ground up. Her persistence paid off. Thirteen years ago, a former colleague reached out with an opportunity to become an Executive Director at a Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) organization, which marked her entry into a field she would come to love. "It was a wonderful opportunity,which ultimately brought me to California to continue the work I had grown to love. Eventually, this led me to work at CEI. It just seemed like the next logical step, and I feel like I've made a very good decision."
When asked how her Hispanic heritage has shaped her leadership style, Maria emphasized the importance of community. "I think our backgrounds, our families, our heritage—it all shapes who we are as people," she said. "For me, community is really at the core. I see CEI as its own little community—our members, our participants, our staff. We are a community within a broader community, and it's the fabric that holds us all together."
Maria highlighted that, as a Latina leader, she often encounters unique challenges, especially being one of the few in her field. "There are different sets of challenges for women, and yet another set for women of color," she noted. "I often find myself the only Latina in the room, but I see this as an opportunity to learn from others and to share my own experiences."
Maria Zamora's vision for the future includes fostering more Hispanic leadership across all sectors. "I want every organization to reflect the communities they serve," she said. "We need more Hispanic, Latino, and Latinx leaders in all settings, sharing our rich traditions and values."
Maria Zamora, Participant: Celebrating Heritage and Building Community
At the heart of CEI’s community is another Maria Zamora, a senior participant who embodies resilience and cultural pride. Originally from Michoacán, Mexico, Maria immigrated to the United States at age 40 with her family, facing numerous challenges along the way, including a difficult journey. Despite these hardships, Maria’s spirit remained unbroken, and she quickly took on the role of caregiver for her grandson while her daughter worked.
Maria’s life is a testament to strength and perseverance. She raised 10 children and is now a proud grandmother to many, some of whom still reside in Mexico. She keeps her Mexican heritage alive by celebrating traditions such as the pilgrimage to Lake Chapala, a cherished annual event that connects her to her faith and roots.
Maria has been an active participant at CEI PACE San Leandro for over a year, and despite her health challenges, including migraines and eye problems, she deeply values the sense of community and social connections she has found here. "I appreciate the activities and the friends I've made," Maria shared. "Being part of CEI has helped me stay connected to my culture while also embracing the new community around me."
Maria’s involvement at CEI includes advocacy for her fellow particpants; she is also a valued member of the Participant Advisory Committee (PAC), where she helps represent the voices of her peers and ensures that their needs and concerns are heard. Her dedication to her community, both within CEI and beyond, is evident in everything she does.
Two Journeys, One Shared Name
The stories of the two Maria Zamoras at CEI remind us of the diverse experiences and contributions of the Hispanic and Latinx community. Whether leading an organization with vision and empathy or participating actively in community life and preserving cultural traditions, both women exemplify what it means to make an impact. Both women, with their shared cultural background, demonstrate that leadership in healthcare can come in many forms.
How CEI Celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month
At CEI, we believe that celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month is about more than recognizing individual achievements; it is about acknowledging the rich cultural tapestry that strengthens our community. This month, CEI is hosting a variety of events and activities to honor Hispanic and Latinx cultures. The planned activities promises to bring together participants, staff, and the local community in a joyful celebration of music and heritage.
As we celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month, we reflect on the importance of community. Let us honor the contributions of the two Maria Zamoras and countless other Latinx who inspire us every day.
Thank you for joining us in celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month. To learn more about our events or get involved, please visit our website www.elders.org.