Janeth Castrejon: 2024 Latin Times Magazines Lideres Award

Full name: Janeth Patricia Castrejon 

Hispanic Heritage: Panamanian 

Residence: Lehigh Acres, FL 

Profession: Marketing and Communications Director 

LTM: Tell us about what you do for a living and how you got into it. 

I work in marketing and communications for the nonprofit American Heart Association. My journey in Communications began in 2015 at CareerSource SWFL when I realized my true passion. I completed my bachelor’s in communications at Florida Gulf Coast University. After being let go from Hodges University, I stumbled upon a fantastic opportunity with the American Heart Association on LinkedIn. I decided to take a bold step and apply. After just one interview, I got the job!  In my role, I manage various campaigns to raise awareness about heart health and stroke prevention. I create engaging content for our social media platforms, coordinate relevant media coverage, and help disseminate vital information to our local community. I love what I do, especially our focus on heart health and stroke management. 

LTM:  What would you say separates you from your competition in your industry?

What sets me apart in marketing and communications is my unwavering drive and passion, especially when it comes to informing my Southwest Florida Latino community about the critical effects of cardiovascular health and stroke. This mission is deeply personal to me. My father suffered multiple heart attacks before he passed away, and my grandmother in Panama has endured several strokes and continues to struggle. These experiences fuel my dedication to the American Heart Association’s cause. I am committed to reaching as many people as possible in Southwest Florida, ensuring they have the knowledge and resources to protect their heart health. 

LTM: Why do you feel you were nominated 

I was nominated because of my long-standing dedication to the Latino community in Southwest Florida. My journey began with the Hispanic Chamber of SWFL and continued through my work with Telemundo Fort Myers/Naples. Over the years, I’ve seized numerous opportunities to inform and educate our community about crucial health issues and overall well-being. This recognition reflects my commitment to making a positive impact and empowering our Latino community. 

LTM: During COVID-19, tell us about your Biggest Challenge/obstacle and how you overcame it/or are overcoming it 

My biggest challenge during COVID-19 was adapting to the rapid changes around us. The new quarantine processes and being away from loved ones were particularly difficult. However, I rose to the occasion and continued my work at CareerSource SWFL. I focused on informing our local community about the unemployment challenges we were facing at the time, ensuring they had the support and information they needed during such a turbulent period. 

LTM: Tell us about your biggest achievement in business or personal life, and how you achieved it  

I am proud of many achievements in my business and personal life, but if I have to narrow them down, a few stand out. Becoming the spokesperson for CareerSource Southwest Florida was one of my greatest achievements, thanks to my mentor Jim Wall. It was an honor to represent our local workforce agency and discuss important topics with the news media for six years. Another significant accomplishment was earning my bachelor’s degree in communications, also with the support of my friend and mentor Jim Wall, who taught me how to be an effective spokesperson and encouraged me to stay the course in completing my degree. On a personal level, I am the mother of an exceptional young woman, my daughter Victoria, and the grandmother of the sweetest toddler, Elena. They are my pride and joy. 

LTM: What is next for you? What can people expect to see from you?  

I am committed to continuing my growth in Marketing and Communications at the American Heart Association. My goal is to keep our Latino community informed about the latest advances in heart health and stroke prevention. I plan to develop innovative campaigns that resonate with our community, leveraging social media, local events, and partnerships to spread vital information. As the association stays at the forefront of medical advancements and communication strategies, I aim to empower our community with the knowledge they need to lead healthier lives. Together, we can make a significant impact on heart health and stroke awareness in Southwest Florida. 

LTM: What does being a U.S. Citizen mean to you? 

I am extremely proud to be a U.S. Citizen. Having spent more than half my life in this great country, I have been blessed with countless opportunities, starting with the honor of serving in the U.S. Army. Although it was one of my greatest challenges, it remains one of my proudest achievements to have served honorably and with pride. 

This country is full of possibilities, and I am a testament to what someone from a third-world country can achieve if they dare to dream and pursue those dreams. I am grateful for every challenge and obstacle that has made me stronger and helped me discover who I am and how to achieve my goals. I am especially thankful for my mother, who helped me enter this country legally and allowed my early dreams to take flight. Her support has been invaluable in my journey. 

LTM: What is your opinion of the state of affairs in our nation? And what role do you see Hispanics/Latinos playing in the future of our nation? 

Our country is ever-changing, just as it was 30 years ago when I first arrived. To continue evolving, we must adapt to these changes. While I see a lot of division between parties and philosophies, we are still one nation under God. Hispanics and Latinos will continue to grow and bring great opportunities for change in areas such as the workforce, education, healthcare, and community needs. We Latinos are here to stay, and our country will continue to evolve with this fact. I see a great need for Latino leaders in government and local communities. Our voices need to be heard, and we need leaders who can be positive examples for future generations to follow and feel represented. It breaks my heart to see what our Latino and Hispanic immigrants go through. I wish there were a positive solution to help them in this country. My vision for Latino leadership is one of empowerment, representation, and positive change. Here are a few key aspects: 

1. Empowerment through Education: Education is the foundation of leadership. By ensuring that Latino youth have access to quality education and mentorship programs, we can cultivate a new generation of leaders who are well-equipped to tackle the challenges of tomorrow. 

2. Representation in Government: It’s crucial to have Latino voices in government at all levels. This representation ensures that the unique needs and perspectives of our community are considered in policy-making. Latino leaders can advocate for issues that directly impact our community, such as immigration reform, healthcare access, and educational opportunities. 

3. Community Engagement: Latino leaders should be deeply involved in their communities, understanding the specific needs and working collaboratively to address them. This includes organizing community events, providing resources, and creating platforms for dialogue and support. 

4. Economic Opportunities: Promoting entrepreneurship and economic development within the Latino community is vital. By supporting Latino-owned businesses and encouraging economic initiatives, we can create jobs and foster economic growth. 

5. Cultural Pride and Unity: Celebrating our rich cultural heritage and fostering a sense of unity within the Latino community is essential. Leaders who embrace and promote our culture can inspire pride and solidarity, strengthening our collective identity. 

6. Advocacy and Activism: Latino leaders should be at the forefront of advocating for social justice and equality. This includes fighting against discrimination, promoting civil rights, and ensuring that all members of our community have the opportunity to thrive. 

By focusing on these areas, we can build a strong network of Latino leaders who are prepared to make a significant impact on our society. Together, we can create a future where our community is not only represented but also celebrated and empowered. 

LTM: What is the best lesson that you have learned in leadership and how has it helped your career? 

The best lesson I learned from my mentor, Jim Wall, is to always be authentic and that “no” is a complete sentence.  Being ourselves can be challenging in a world where we all want to fit in and not stand out, but Jim taught me that there is only one Janeth and to trust my instincts. This invaluable advice helped me discover my passion for my field and achieve great things as a Communication Manager. This lesson has had a profound impact on my career decisions. By embracing authenticity, I’ve been able to pursue roles and projects that truly align with my values and passions. It has given me the confidence to take bold steps, such as applying for positions that challenge me and allow me to grow. Understanding that “no” is a complete sentence has been crucial in staying true to myself. It has allowed me to set boundaries, honor my needs, and avoid the trap of trying to please everyone all the time. It has been equally transformative. It has empowered me to set healthy boundaries, ensuring that I don’t overextend myself and can maintain a balance between my professional and personal life. This has led to more thoughtful and deliberate career choices, where I prioritize opportunities that offer both professional fulfillment and personal well-being. To this day, I deeply appreciate my mentor and now great friend, Jim Wall, for all the wisdom he imparted to me over the years. Overall, these lessons have guided me to a career path that is not only successful but also deeply satisfying. They have helped me stay true to myself, make decisions with clarity, and achieve a sense of purpose in my work. 

LTM: What is YOUR Comida Latina favorita?  

My favorite is Panamanian cuisine, a delightful blend of flavors and ingredients that reflect the country’s diverse cultural influences. Here are some highlights: 

Carimanolas (Yuca Fritters): These are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, made from yuca (cassava) dough filled with seasoned ground meat. The yuca gives them a slightly sweet and nutty flavor, while the filling adds a savory touch. 

Arroz con Pollo: This is a classic dish made with rice and chicken, cooked together with a mix of vegetables like bell peppers, peas, and carrots. It’s seasoned with a blend of spices, including cumin, oregano, and sometimes saffron, giving it a rich and aromatic flavor. 

Tamales: Panamanian tamales are made with a corn dough (masa) that is filled with a mixture of meats, usually chicken or pork, and vegetables. They are wrapped in banana leaves and steamed, which imparts a unique, earthy flavor to the tamales. 

Sancocho: This is a hearty soup made with chicken, yuca, corn, and a variety of root vegetables. It’s seasoned with culantro (similar to cilantro but with a stronger flavor), garlic, and onions, creating a comforting and flavorful dish. 

Patacones: These are twice-fried green plantains that are crispy and savory. They are often served as a side dish or snack and can be topped with cheese, meat, or a tangy sauce. 

Ceviche: Panamanian ceviche typically features fresh fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, cilantro, and peppers. The acidity of the lime juice “cooks” the fish, resulting in a refreshing and zesty dish. 

Panamanian cuisine is all about bold flavors and fresh ingredients, making every meal a delightful experience.