TheCconnects: Welcome, Julissa. It’s truly an honor to have you with us today. Your work in Latino immigrant health equity has transformed lives and reshaped public health conversations nationwide. Could you start by telling our readers about your journey? How did you evolve from your early experiences into the leader you are today?
Julissa Soto: Thank you for such a warm welcome. My journey is rooted in personal experience and a deep commitment to community. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the struggles faced by immigrant families—challenges that ranged from navigating healthcare systems to overcoming language barriers. My early involvement in teen parent programs and community outreach planted the seeds for what would become my lifelong mission. I began by advocating for access to basic healthcare services in my own community, which eventually led me to found Latino Health Equity Consulting. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of training over 5,000 healthcare providers and reaching more than 10,000 professionals across 17 countries. Every step of the way has been about harnessing my experiences to build bridges—ensuring that healthcare not only heals but also respects and validates cultural identity.
TheCconnects: Your personal story is incredibly inspiring. Along that journey, who or what has influenced you the most?
Julissa Soto: I would say my family and my community have been my strongest influences. I grew up in an environment where every struggle was personal. As a young, undocumented Latina, I experienced the vulnerabilities of not having a safety net. My mother, who persevered through unimaginable hardships, taught me that resilience isn’t just about surviving—it’s about fighting for a better future. I also draw inspiration from the countless community members whose stories of perseverance continue to fuel my passion. Their strength reminds me daily that every challenge is an opportunity to make a difference.
TheCconnects: Speaking of challenges, you’ve overcome many significant hurdles in your career. Can you share some of the biggest obstacles you’ve faced and how you managed to overcome them?
Julissa Soto: Absolutely. One of the most profound challenges I encountered was the constant struggle to access essential healthcare when I needed it most. I remember the days when I had to juggle multiple jobs—cleaning bathrooms, making French fries—just to provide for my children while also battling domestic violence and the stigma of being undocumented. These experiences were harrowing, but they ignited a fire within me. I made a promise to myself and to my community that no one else should endure what I did. Over time, I learned that transforming pain into purpose was the only way forward. I educated myself, built networks, and used every setback as a stepping stone. It wasn’t an easy road, but each challenge reinforced my commitment to championing health equity and cultural validation.
TheCconnects: That transformation is truly remarkable. Along your journey, what are some key lessons you’ve learned, both personally and professionally?
Julissa Soto: There are several lessons that have defined my path. First and foremost is the power of resilience. Life will always throw obstacles in your way, but it’s your response to these challenges that determines your future. Secondly, I’ve learned the immense value of cultural validation. When healthcare is tailored to respect and understand cultural identities, it not only becomes more accessible but also more effective. Another lesson is the importance of data-driven decision making. By setting measurable goals—whether it’s the number of vaccinations administered or healthcare professionals trained—we can clearly see the impact of our efforts and refine our strategies accordingly. Lastly, collaboration is key. Whether it’s working with local community groups, public health organizations, or corporate partners, forging strong, cross-sector partnerships amplifies our collective impact.
TheCconnects: In today’s digital age, many brands and organizations struggle to adapt. What do you see as the biggest challenge for companies in the digital space, especially in relation to health equity and community outreach?
Julissa Soto: The digital realm offers immense opportunities, but it also presents unique challenges—particularly in building authentic, culturally sensitive connections. Many organizations struggle with digital inclusivity. It’s not just about having an online presence; it’s about creating content and services that resonate with diverse communities. In our work, we focus on what we call “cultural validation” in digital communications. This means understanding the language, traditions, and experiences of our audience. Brands often fall into the trap of generic messaging, which can inadvertently alienate the very communities they aim to serve. The key is to listen actively and incorporate genuine voices and experiences into your digital strategy. This approach not only enhances trust but also fosters a more engaged and informed audience.
TheCconnects: That’s an insightful perspective. Shifting gears a bit, could you elaborate on how your services and training programs address the specific pain points of your customers and the broader community?
Julissa Soto: Certainly. At the heart of our services is the concept of cultural validation—a methodology that ensures healthcare providers not only understand clinical procedures but also the cultural nuances that affect patient care. We provide extensive training programs that equip healthcare professionals with the skills needed to connect with Latino communities in a respectful and effective manner. For instance, our training sessions focus on communication strategies, community engagement, and data-driven approaches to assess and meet specific health needs. We also design community health campaigns that are both evidence-based and culturally relevant. By addressing issues such as language barriers and systemic disparities, we help institutions create environments where every individual feels seen, heard, and valued. It’s about transforming data into actionable insights that lead to real, positive change.
TheCconnects: It sounds like your work is as much about empowerment as it is about education. Outside of your professional commitments, what do you enjoy doing in your free time? How do you recharge and stay inspired?
Julissa Soto: I believe that balance is essential. When I’m not immersed in my work, I love spending quality time with my family and reconnecting with my roots. Whether it’s cooking traditional meals, dancing to Latin rhythms, or simply taking a walk in nature, these moments ground me and remind me of where I come from. I also enjoy reading—particularly stories of resilience and triumph from across the globe—which constantly fuels my passion for social justice. Another favorite pastime is mentoring young professionals and aspiring entrepreneurs; seeing their ideas take shape and knowing I played a small part in their journey is incredibly fulfilling.
TheCconnects: Mentorship is indeed a powerful tool for change. For those who aspire to follow in your footsteps—especially young entrepreneurs and community leaders—what advice would you offer?
Julissa Soto: My advice is simple yet profound: never underestimate the power of your own story. Your experiences, no matter how challenging, are the very things that can drive transformative change. Embrace your struggles and let them shape your mission. Stay true to your values, be persistent, and always seek knowledge. Surround yourself with mentors and build a support network that uplifts you. Also, remember that success isn’t measured solely by accolades or numbers, but by the impact you make in your community. Every setback is an opportunity to learn and grow. Believe in yourself and your vision—because if we work together and empower one another, change is not just possible; it’s inevitable.
TheCconnects: In light of your extensive experience in public health and community advocacy, how do you envision the future of health equity, especially in an increasingly digital and globalized world?
Julissa Soto: I see a future where health equity is a fundamental right rather than an afterthought. The digital landscape offers powerful tools to bridge gaps in healthcare access and education. With advanced data analytics, we can better understand community needs and develop targeted interventions that are both innovative and effective. However, the human element must remain at the core of these advancements. We need to ensure that technology amplifies authentic voices rather than replacing them. My hope is that future public health initiatives will combine the best of digital innovation with deep cultural sensitivity. It’s about creating systems that are as diverse and dynamic as the communities they serve.
TheCconnects: Before we wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers—perhaps a final thought or an inspiring message?
Julissa Soto: I’d like to leave our readers with this thought: every challenge is an opportunity in disguise. In a world where disruption is a constant, we must learn to see obstacles as catalysts for innovation. My journey has taught me that with determination, empathy, and a commitment to cultural validation, we can reshape systems and create lasting change. Whether you’re a healthcare provider, an entrepreneur, or someone striving to make a difference in your community, remember that your voice matters. Together, we have the power to build a future where health equity isn’t just an ideal but a reality for every individual. Let’s keep pushing boundaries, breaking down barriers, and rewriting the rules for a more inclusive world.
TheCconnects: Julissa, thank you for sharing such profound insights today. Your story is not only a testament to the strength of the human spirit but also a clarion call for transformative change. We are grateful for your time and wisdom, and we’re excited to see how your continued efforts will shape the future of health equity.
Julissa Soto: Thank you for having me. It’s been a pleasure sharing my journey and vision with you. Let’s continue to empower and uplift our communities—together, we can make a difference.
You can connect with Julissa Soto on LinkedIn here
