Today we’d like to introduce you to Luisa Diaz.
Hi Luisa, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I grew up in Venezuela and I came to the United States with no knowledge of the English language, and it was the hardest challenge I ever faced in my life, having to learn English while simultaneously attending college. I graduated with a B.S. in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing. I went on to create “Luisa su voz Latina” (Luisa your Latin voice), where I was the host and producer of a Latina TV Show, the first and longest Spanish-language program on an American affiliated network (ABC and Warner Brothers) in North Carolina. While in North Carolina, I was also was the director of the Miss North Carolina Latina beauty pageant. I then moved to Hollywood to explore the world of entertainment. I became an actress and was featured in Oscar-winning movies, including “The Fighter” and “Silver Linings Playbook.” I am the founder of The Luisa Diaz Foundation where our motto is “Kindness is Cool”. Every year, we host the “MAG Gala” (Mi Amor Graciousness Gala) in honor of my beloved grandmother, who was both mentally and physically abused. The MAG Gala is a celebration of kindness that supports grassroots organizations and individuals who are making a direct impact on the lives of survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking. I work personally with survivors and showcase their transition from a place of darkness to a place of light on the “Runway of Hope” at the MAG Gala. Last year, at the MAG Gala 2023, the Mayor of NYC made a proclamation to declare May 18th as “Kindness is Cool Day” in NYC forevermore. This year is the 10-year Anniversary of the MAG Gala. It was born in LA, but now we hold the gala in NYC at the iconic Plaza Hotel. Last year, we held a gala in Houston. I am also the author of “Sexy Is Timeless: Ten Timeless Sexy Assets That Lie Within You” to share my insights and redefine what it is to be “sexy” in this new era of women empowerment. I outline ten characteristics of sexiness that remind women to never forget how beautiful and worthy they are. I am also the former Ms. Venezuela International and Mrs. New York International 2019.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has been a great challenge filled with many amazing experiences that have shown me the inner strength I possess. I always look forward to a great challenge, and I do not shy away from challenges. I do not believe in failure. I believe in learning experiences, growing, and becoming the very best version of myself.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about The Luisa Diaz Foundation?
The “Luisa Diaz Foundation” is a non-profit (501c3) that supports grassroots organizations and individuals who are making a direct impact in helping people and their communities through acts of kindness. The foundation, whose overarching theme is “Kindness is Cool,” has been aiding survivors and communities by providing vital assistance regarding legal services and medical expertise for more than 15 years. Additionally, the foundation hosts an annual Mi Amor Gala (MAG) at the Plaza Hotel, benefiting domestic abuse victims and survivors of human trafficking.
These MAG Gala raises funds and awareness for organizations to support survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking and their families. Luisa works directly with the survivors in coaching and helping them build their self-esteem to walk the “Runway of Hope” (Walking Towards the Light, where fashion meets compassion).
The Luisa Diaz Foundation continues to support like-minded organizations that have a direct impact on lifting up people and their communities. Luisa believes strongly we can create a snowball of kindness that will continue to grow, inspire, empower, and provide hope and opportunities for people to change their lives and improve the world around them.
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
I see the Luisa Diaz Foundation not only creating awareness for survivors but also creating a women’s conference and working with the Department of Education to create a national celebration and movement of “Kindness is Cool.” Currently, we have a proclamation in NYC for “Kindness is Cool Day” and envision “Kindness is Cool Day” as a national holiday to inspire others to be more compassionate towards one another. I see the organization empowering women by providing scholarships, helping women build their businesses, and impacting those who are underprivileged, talented visionaries. The movement of “Kindness is Cool” is more necessary than ever; as the individualistic attitude in the United States grows, there is a need to focus more on building community and for people to be kind to themselves and others.
Source: https://voyagela.com/interview/exploring-life-business-with-luisa-diaz-of-the-luisa-diaz-foundation/
