From childhood to career, girls thrive when they are aware of their possibilities.
Cristina Lopez understood the importance of representation from an early age and has carried this knowledge into her current role as Vice President of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at VillageMD.
Growing up in Latin America before moving to the U.S. in the second grade, Cristina found a place of belonging in her local Girl Scout Brownie troop. Through her involvement in Girl Scouts, she was introduced to a diverse group of girls from different backgrounds, expanding her perspective and understanding of her world. Today, she is an advocate for diversity and empowering girls to pursue their dreams, both as a mom of a current Girl Scout and as a member of the Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas Board of Directors and DEI Corporate Council.
Her observations and advice?
Girls must believe that anything is possible.
By seeing someone unconventional in a role, it breaks through preconceptions and gives them room to reimagine themselves and understand that leaders can and should be diverse.
Learn about yourself first.
Figure out what your superpower is. The more you know about yourself, the more you can show up in the world.
Representation starts with your peers.
Representation isn’t just important in troop leaders and high-level corporate executives – learning from a diverse group of people expands your view and unlocks possibilities.
Visibility is crucial.
We must share stories of women and particularly women of color to launch the next generation to new heights.
Get involved.
Find a place to volunteer. Showing up and showing you care can be just what a girl needs to build confidence and try something she didn’t think was possible.
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