Let’s start with the most significant reason that community is important: belonging. How many times have you felt left out, whether in school, at work, or even within your own family? We’ve all been there. When you find the right community, that feeling starts to change. You begin to see that you’re not alone. There’s something incredibly powerful about connecting with people who get it, who understand the complexities of being a first gen. It’s like finding your tribe, a place where you can truly be yourself and feel accepted.
Another important part of community is networking and mentorship. You’ve probably heard the saying, “Your network is your net worth,” and it’s true. The connections you make within your community can open doors you didn’t even know existed. In this episode, I share about a time when my business was going through a slow season. I reached out to my network, and because of the relationships I had nurtured, I was able to land new opportunities that helped to keep things moving. These connections are invaluable, and they’re often the result of being an active part of a community that supports and uplifts each other.
Community as a First Gen
For those of you who are entrepreneurs or even working a traditional nine-to-five, let’s not forget about the power of generating leads. When people in your community know what you do and trust you, they’re more likely to recommend you to others. These leads are super important because they come with a built-in level of trust. Another huge benefit of community is access to education and resources. Being part of a community means you’re constantly learning, growing, and sharing knowledge. Whether it’s advice on navigating a tough career decision or a recommendation for a new tool or resource, the collective wisdom within a community is something you just can’t put a price on.
And finally, let’s talk about support. Life can be tough, and as first gens, we often feel like we have to shoulder the burden alone. With a strong community, you don’t have to. There’s so much comfort in knowing you have people who’ve been through similar experiences and can offer guidance or just a listening ear when you need it. This support system can be the difference between giving up and pushing through when things get tough.
So, First Gens, we hope this inspires you to seek out and invest in a community that resonates with you. Whether you’re looking for belonging, networking, leads, resources, or support, the right community can offer it all. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and try different options until you find the perfect fit. Remember that although the journey may seem lonely, you don’t have to navigate it alone. You will always have a Madrina in your corner!
The First Gen Madrina
If you are a University, College, Company or Organization, The First Gen Madrina offers workshops on a variety of topics (such as imposter syndrome, time management, managing burnout, building a self-care plan, etc..), custom built mentorship programs as well as customized services tailored to the needs of the client.
Join Sara, The First Gen Madrina, for individual coaching and/or group coaching. The journey can often feel lonely but that does not mean that you are alone! Check out the Our Services tab on our website for more information! http://
In order to follow along, remember to rate, review, and subscribe to The First Gen Madrina Podcast to stay connected. Also, follow on instagram and LinkedIn @thefirstgenmadrina and Sara Diaz, LCSW. Sara acknowledges that the term first gen can be fluid, so The First Gen Madrina is committed to supporting all first gens! This isn’t just about breaking barriers—it’s about providing unwavering support that propels individuals to embrace life’s challenges and triumphs.
In conclusion, stay tuned to meet amazing first-generation guests for the podcast, endless topics related to the first-gen experience and transformational coaching! Sara is your go to Madrina for all things first gen!
¡Hasta pronto!