Cultural FIT

While many enjoy NYE with fireworks and festivities, I’m reminiscing about when 23-year-old me rang in the New Year in Sevilla, Spain—eating 12 grapes at midnight, one for each stroke of the clock, to bring good luck for the year ahead! #LasDoceUvas In Japan, Buddhist temples ring their bells 108 times at midnight in a tradition called Joya no Kane. The chimes symbolize purifying oneself of the 108 human desires and starting the year fresh. In Brazil, people wear white for peace and prosperity and head to the beach to jump over seven waves, making a wish with each one. This tradition is rooted in Afro-Brazilian culture and pays homage to Yemanjá, the goddess of the sea. In Denmark, people smash old dishes on their friends’ doorsteps as a sign of affection and good fortune. The more broken plates you find, the more luck you’re believed to have in the coming year. In some South African towns, people symbolically throw out old furniture and appliances to signify leaving the past behind and embracing new opportunities. Scots celebrate Hogmanay by "first-footing"—visiting a friend or neighbor's house as the first guest of the New Year, bringing gifts like whiskey or shortbread to ensure good fortune. Many Nigerians attend religious services called "Cross Over" on New Year’s Eve to give thanks for the past year and pray for blessings in the year ahead. In Turkey, wearing red underwear on New Year’s Eve is believed to bring good luck and fortune in the coming year. Immersing yourself in other cultural traditions broadens your perspective, fosters empathy and deepens your appreciation for the diverse ways people find meaning and connection. Which one would you try this New Year? #CulturalConnections

Just spent 40+ minutes completing the American Community Survey, an annual initiative by the U.S. Census Bureau to provide an up-to-date snapshot of how we live. I love helping my clients leverage the latest data to determine next steps in their marketing strategies and am fascinated by the evolving approach to questions around identity. There’s still much work needed to refine their lists to ensure accurate representation without causing confusion. What are your thoughts on this list? How can we improve how we categorize and understand identity in these important surveys? #Census #AmericanCommunitySurvey #Diversity #Identity #CulturalRepresentation

Strategic marketing can impact daily routines, preferences, and even shape culture on a large scale. What other examples of marketers shaping culture come to mind? How do you think this influence will evolve? Where should we draw the line between influence and manipulation? #Marketing #CulturalInfluence 

Are you paying attention? To the historic U.S. Supreme Court ruling last year that ended affirmative action in college admissions, drastically changing how schools consider diversity? To the dozen+ state attorneys general who warned companies not to consider race in employment and contracting practices? What does this mean, one year later? We’re seeing growing challenges to diversity efforts in education and the workplace. But we can’t let up now. I was honored to share the stage with Grammy-winning gospel singer Erica Campbell and speak on this important topic at the Women of Wisdom Conference, where amazing women from across northern NJ came together to inspire, empower, and connect! I was still wearing my Girl Scout gear because I was rushing from a Girl Scout event focused on voting. Pay attention, vote, and volunteer. As I stand here with two of my Girl Scouts in the audience, let’s find ways to uplift the next generation. They are counting on us! #WomenOfWisdom #AffirmativeAction #DiversityMatters #DEI #PayAttention #KeynoteSpeaker

Have you ever been to a supplier diversity summit? These events are more than just networking opportunities; they’re vital for fostering inclusive business practices and empowering underrepresented suppliers. Grateful for the powerful dialogue and coaching at the Diverse Supplier Success Summit hosted by Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey. My heartfelt gratitude to Wendy Lanski and her amazing team for making sure this experience was inspiring and actionable for all the business leaders in attendance. A sincere thank you to CEO Gary St. Hilaire for your kickoff and strong commitment to a culture of inclusivity. And just WOW to John E. Harmon, Sr., IOM of The African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey (AACCNJ) for an impactful keynote that reinforced the importance and impact of our work. James Kirkos, Luis O. De La Hoz, Monica Johnson-Hunt and Gus Penaranda did a great job highlighting upcoming opportunities for NJ businesses — including World Cup! Bravo Rhonda Robinson, Frank Melaccio, Katie Freund, CPA, CIA and Lori Ferguson, MBA, PHR on all the risk management advice! This summit truly raised the bar. I’ve attended similar events before, but this one was exceptional! Looking forward to continuing the conversations and building on the momentum! Beatriz Meza, Sarah E Jones, Gabriela Cicchetti, Jeannette F. #DiversitySummit #HorizonBCBS #Inclusion #Leadership #Familia

The world is witnessing an incredible demographic shift, with nearly 60% of the population now living in cities—a sharp increase from around 50% ten years ago. We observed firsthand how Mexico City is one standout example, showcasing the tremendous evolution happening in urban areas. As cities continue to grow, so do the cultural influences that shape them. Local innovation is driving global impact as Bloomberg CityLab helps cities share solutions to create lasting change. I feel truly honored to have learned from mayors and urban leaders from around the U.S. and around the world, sitting through inspiring sessions that focused on how we can all build a better future together. #CulturalShifts #CitiesOfTheFuture #MexicoCity #BloombergCityLab

Today, I had the honor of introducing Andre for his annual State of the City address. Over the past six years, I’ve had a front-row seat to witness Paterson’s record growth and transformation. Every decision he makes is filled with heart, thought, and commitment to our constituents, no matter how tough the choices may be. His vision for Paterson’s future is centered on several “pathways to progress” that help build a city we can all be proud of: 1. Equity, Inclusion, and Opportunity 2. Holistic Well-being 3. Quality of Life and Infrastructure 4. Digital Innovation and Modernization The best part of the event was hearing the powerful stories of Patersonians who have thrived through the many initiatives launched during this administration . . . like the Guaranteed Income Program, Financial Empowerment Center, Re-entry Services, REAL Fix opioid program, and more. I’m beyond proud of his leadership and dedication to our city’s bright future, one that embraces our cultural richness and shared progress. #PatersonProud #PathwaysToProgress #StateOfTheCity #InclusiveGrowth

Fantastic Morning with the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of NJ! An incredible opportunity for fellow MWBEs to connect with each other and engage with supplier diversity champions. From Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey to United Airlines, PSEG, and NJ TRANSIT—it's inspiring to see such dedication to driving inclusivity. As Luis O. De La Hoz reminded us, you don’t have to be Hispanic to support the cause—it's about coming together to uplift diverse businesses and create opportunities for all. #DiversityAndInclusion #SupplierDiversity #MWBE #Networking #BusinessGrowth #NJHCC #DiversityExpo

Peru 🇵🇪 ❤️ 🤍 Another personal vacation we dedicated to better understanding our neighbors in Northern NJ. And I continue to see how grouping all Hispanics together as a monolith does a disservice to their rich diversity. Each culture and each country adds its own rich thread to the vibrant tapestry of our community. From learning about the Incan Empire and how it shaped the incredible people of the Andes, to meeting those who speak Quechua, and experiencing foods, music, and perspectives unique to the region—this journey has been truly unforgettable. Paterson is the Capital of the Peruvian diaspora and we were thrilled to meet with political and business leaders to better understand cultural nuances and to forge meaningful connections! #DiverseCultures #TravelDiaries #CulturalAwareness #CulturalIntelligence #GlobalPerspectives #CelebrateDiversity #HispanicCultures #SomosDiversos

An unprecedented $30 trillion wealth transfer is expected in the next few years as baby boomer men pass on their assets to wives who tend to outlive their husbands. Much was discussed at this amazing conference yesterday, but this one topic really stuck with me. This will drive a cultural shift towards greater gender equity, reshape how wealth is managed and perceived and drive a shift in societal values as more gets invested in sustainability, social responsibility and inclusivity. Amazed by all the local resources offered by the U.S. Small Business Administration Thank you to the NJSBDC at William Paterson University and all the excellent speakers including Lt Gov Tahesha Way, Melissa Rosario, IOM, MBA, Albania Rosario, Harvetta Lynch, Doris Vogelmann and Kelly Brozyna. #ManagingChange #CulturalShift