Celebrating the power of people and their experiences: Observations for Hispanic/ Latinx Heritage Month

At Boehringer Ingelheim, we value the ability to effectively communicate with people across cultures. That's why we support a diverse collaborative environment powered by our people. To celebrate Hispanic/ Latinx Heritage Month, we invited colleagues to share how their experiences with Hispanic culture has influenced their approach to life and work.

Clear communication and culturally respectful care

For Wisconsin-based Claudia Juckem, Associate Director, PCP/ENDO, her Hispanic heritage has heightened her sensitivity to the need for clear communication in healthcare. “Often, when you go to the doctor, you are already scared; it gets scarier when you can’t understand your physician, or they can’t understand you.”

Claudia, originally from Mexico City, volunteered as a translator at free clinics before bilingual staff were available. She has assisted Hispanic immigrants with translations and paperwork and helped them understand their financial options for hospital care. “I am proud to support the local Hispanic community.” 

Senior Manager of Vendor Operations Liliane DeSousa-Mozdziak’s heritage also influences her views on healthcare. “Brazilian culture emphasizes family, community, and natural foods. It promotes natural or minimally processed foods and freshly made dishes, compared to ultra-processed products, guiding me to advocate for culturally respectful care.”

Empathy and understanding

For many colleagues, like Samari Colon, Executive Cardio/Renal Sales Consultant, being Hispanic is both a personal and collective experience. “I value my European, African, and Taino blended heritage that makes me unique. I also celebrate the Spanish language, which is spoken by over 500 million people worldwide.”

Robert Anderson, Vice President, Corporate Affairs, advocates for developing empathy beyond language barriers. Growing up in Florida surrounded by Cuban Americans and later gaining a stepmother and stepsiblings from Puerto Rico, as well as a husband who is half-Colombian and half-Venezuelan, Rob believes understanding what is important to someone and appreciating their unique experience is ultimately what matters regardless of what language is spoken. “I get a lot of practice with this at home and work, and I love every minute of it.”

Resilience and perseverance

For Maria Marmolejo, Scientist II, Formulation, her background has shaped her resilience and sensitivity to social issues. “Through Colombian history, we’ve learned to be resilient and fight against stereotypes. My heritage has made me more sensitive to social issues, fueling my passion and dedication to working for the health of both animals and humans. Coming from a country where resilience is necessary has made me a strong person who believes in achieving dreams despite obstacles.”

Resilience is also important to Olaya Iturbe Navalpotro, Customer Marketing Manager, Swine. “My Hispanic heritage involves a strong connection to family and friends as well as emphasizing resilience and perseverance. When I first moved to the U.S. from Spain to work, the goodbye postcard that my parents gave me said, “Después de la tormenta siempre llega la calma” (After the storm always comes the calm). They already knew it wouldn’t be easy, but they trusted I could make it right.”

The Value of Inclusivity

The word ‘Hispanic’ is inclusive and covers many cultural and individual experiences. 

“At Boehringer, we recognize that everyone brings valuable insight through their languages, knowledge, and personal narratives,” said Rafael A. Fantauzzi, Executive Director, Diversity, Inclusion, Culture, and Equity. “Celebrating the history and lived experiences of our colleagues, patients, partners and customers ensures our work remains relevant and resonant, and results in positive outcomes for all.”

Learn more about our approach to Diversity, Inclusion, Culture and Equity.