Fostering Inclusion: A Spotlight on HDA’s Hispanic and Latin Employee Network
Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15‒October 15) provides the chance to recognize the achievements and contributions of Hispanic Americans. Throughout the month, HDA and our members are celebrating and recognizing the diaspora of Hispanic and Latin cultures represented by distribution sector experts. Further, we are reinforcing our industry’s commitment to promoting a diverse and inclusive healthcare distribution sector.
Specifically, HDA’s Hispanic and Latin Employee Network (HLEN) employee resource group (ERG) marked the beginning of this occasion by hosting a webinar about building an inclusive workplace. Encompassing HDA’s distributor, manufacturer and service provider member companies, HLEN aims to cultivate a sense of belonging for Hispanic and Latin professionals within the healthcare supply chain, guided by the group’s four pillars: Community, Culture, Commerce and Career.
To highlight HLEN’s activities and goals, we spoke with this ERG’s lead Victor H. Cuesta, MBA, Territory Manager, Miami for MWI Animal Health, Cencora, and assistant lead Anali Perez, Contract Coordinator for Sagent Pharmaceuticals.
HDA: Why did you choose to participate in and lead HDA’s HLEN ERG?
Cuesta: Initially, I wanted to continue efforts for creating community around our member companies to support the pharmaceutical distribution industry. [When] HDA’s ERGs were being launched, our Hispanic ERG at Cencora was at a more mature stage, after [I] co-started it four years before. So, it became a perfect opportunity to be involved with HLEN, in its initial stages. Now, [we are focused on involving] more leaders and volunteers to have more outreach and activities.
Perez: I chose to participate in and lead HDA’s HLEN, because I believe in the power of community and representation in the workplace. Being part of an ERG allows us to create a supportive network where individuals with similar backgrounds can share experiences, advocate for diversity and foster professional growth. Leading HLEN offers an opportunity to amplify the voices of Hispanic/Latin professionals in the healthcare distribution industry, drive meaningful change and contribute to an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.
HDA: What is unique about HDA’s industry-wide ERG that could inspire other healthcare distribution professionals of Hispanic/Latin heritage and allies to participate?
Cuesta: … I learned that the main mission is to promote careers in the healthcare distribution industry that others may not be familiar with. I would encourage Hispanics to participate and have a say in the healthcare arena, especially when it comes to health equity and identifying and solving specific ailments that are more prevalent in the Hispanic communities. It is a call to action.
Perez: HDA’s industry-wide ERG stands out due to its broad reach and collaborative nature. It unites professionals from various organizations within the healthcare distribution sector, creating a rich tapestry of perspectives and experiences. This collective approach fosters a stronger sense of community and shared purpose. For Hispanic/Latin professionals and allies, this means access to a network that not only supports career development but also works together to address industry-specific challenges and opportunities, making it an inspiring platform for engagement and impact.
HDA: Have you seen a shift in the presence and role of people identifying as Hispanic/Latin within the healthcare supply chain? How do you think the ERG could support future inclusion?
Cuesta: I believe there is still a need to increase the presence of participation in the healthcare supply chain from Hispanics in the U.S. Currently, one in five Americans is Hispanic. [The HLEN ERG] can support future inclusion by making our companies and communities realize the potential for servicing our Hispanic community better by understanding the culture and communicating better with it. Whether it is for serving a recent immigrant [population] or individuals who have lived in the U.S. for several generations.
Perez: Yes, there has been a noticeable shift in the presence and role of Hispanic/Latin professionals within the healthcare supply chain. There is a growing recognition of the value that diverse perspectives bring to the industry, leading to increased representation and influence. Hispanic/Latin professionals are taking on more leadership roles, contributing to strategic decision-making and driving innovation. This shift reflects a broader trend toward embracing diversity and recognizing the critical role it plays in addressing the complex needs of a diverse patient population.
The ERG can support future inclusion by serving as a catalyst for change and a platform for advocacy. By providing [mentoring], professional development opportunities and a space for open dialogue, the ERG can help individuals from underrepresented backgrounds advance their careers and gain visibility. Additionally, partnering with other ERGs and organizations can enhance collaborative efforts to promote diversity and inclusion across the industry. The ERG can also work to identify and address systemic barriers, ensuring that all employees have equal opportunities to succeed.
HDA: What do you hope to accomplish through the industry-wide ERG?
Cuesta: Awareness and inclusion. I would like to have company leaders realize the importance of this very large community and the potential positive impact of engaging it. I also would like to have many Hispanics realize the importance of making a difference.
We are hoping to have increased participation and involvement as well as career opportunities in the future. It should be measured and hopefully result in exponential growth, which is very possible if each one of us could be a champion to make a difference in our community and career.
Perez: Success for the ERG would [mean] tangible improvements in representation and career progression for Hispanic/Latin professionals within the industry. This includes increased participation in leadership roles, higher engagement in ERG activities and visible impact on company policies and practices related to diversity and inclusion. Additionally, success would be reflected in positive feedback from members about the value and support they receive through the ERG.
Enhancing Inclusivity in the Healthcare Supply Chain
Subrina Ghorashi, Director of Education at HDA and staff sponsor of the HLEN ERG, said, “Our members appreciate having a space to come to where the people are likeminded. They can also see people who they identify with in higher positions, in a safe space for them to get feedback, network and develop a comradery with individuals throughout the industry.”
“We are continuing to learn and are very open to ideas [for our ERGs],” Ghorashi underscored, “Since these groups are new, we take what the participants say to heart. Anyone who is thinking about joining should know that they will have their voices heard.”
HLEN will stay active in driving positive change and promoting inclusion year-round, with educational workshops and networking events, advocacy and outreach and cultural awareness activities.
We invite Hispanic and Latin healthcare supply chain professionals and allies from HDA’s member companies to join this or any of the other ERGs by filling out the form here. All HDA members are welcome to attend. For more information on HDA’s ERGs, visit the HDA website or contact Subrina Ghorashi.
Note: Interviews were condensed for length and clarity.