As part of Capco’s ongoing commitment to creating an inclusive workplace where employees can bring their authentic selves to work, we partnered with Latinas in Tech Chicago to host an event that highlighted the realities, challenges and successes of working Latina mothers in the technology industry.
The event, Jefas & Mothers, served as a reminder that our personal and professional identities are not separate. Rather, they are deeply connected and shape the experiences we bring into the workplace every day.
This collaboration originated during International Women’s Day celebrations in March. At that event, Janee Jenkins, Women@Capco lead, connected with Corina, a member of Latinas in Tech. Their initial conversation quickly evolved into discussions around how our organizations could work together to create meaningful programs for our communities. As those conversations progressed, Capco’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) represented by Tasmia Anika, Ariette Gaetán Quintana, joined the planning efforts. Together, we identified an opportunity to create a space where women could openly discuss the intersection of career growth, leadership and motherhood.
Latinas in Tech is a nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting, supporting, and empowering Latina women in the technology industry through educational and collaborative programming. Their mission is particularly important given that Latina women represent only a small percentage of the technology workforce. By creating opportunities for networking, mentorship, and professional development, the organization helps amplify voices that are often underrepresented within the industry.
On May 19, our partnership came to life through Jefas & Mothers. The event centered around a panel discussion featuring Latina mothers working in technology who openly shared their personal and professional journeys. The discussion was honest, relatable, and inspiring. Panelists spoke about the challenges of balancing demanding careers while raising families, the support systems that helped them succeed, and the reality that there is no perfect formula for managing both worlds.
One recurring theme throughout the conversation was the importance of community. Whether through family, friends, colleagues, mentors or affinity groups, success often requires ‘a village’. The panelists emphasized that asking for support is not a sign of weakness but a necessary part of sustaining both personal well-being and professional growth.
Following the panel discussion, attendees from Latinas in Tech and Capco had the opportunity to network, exchange ideas and build new connections. Conversations extended beyond career development into shared life experiences, creating an environment where participants could engage as whole individuals rather than solely through their professional titles. The event also included a flower bouquet-building activity, which provided an additional opportunity for creativity, connection, and reflection.
What stood out most was the reminder that our identities do not stop at the office door. A mother does not cease being a mother during working hours, just as a leader, mentor, daughter, caregiver or community advocate does not leave those roles behind when logging into work. These experiences influence how we lead, collaborate, solve problems, and support others.
Events like Jefas & Mothers demonstrate the value of creating workplace cultures where employees feel comfortable bringing all aspects of themselves to work. When people are encouraged to show up authentically, organizations benefit from greater empathy, stronger relationships, and more meaningful collaboration.
Our partnership with Latinas in Tech Chicago was more than a successful event; it was a reflection on what is possible when organizations create spaces that celebrate the many identities that make up our workforce. By recognizing and valuing the whole authentic person, we create environments where people can truly thrive.
