Advocating for Marginalized Communities in Emerging Tech: Shaping a More Inclusive Future
(Left) 4 Year old Ritzy. (Right) Ritzy at the UN General Assembly 78th Science Summit 2023
Growing up as a first-generation Mexican American just a stone's throw from the border in San Diego during the 1980s, I was what you might call an undercover nerd in a time when being a nerd wasn't exactly trendy. While others were eyeing up the latest toys or gadgets as rewards for their achievements, I secretly opted for a microscope when I hit my Girl Scout Cookie sales goals (Troop 713). Art didn't seem like a viable path for someone from our community, but I knew I was an artist at heart, even if I didn't fit the stereotype. I didn't sketch or paint daily; instead, I was trying to navigate a world that didn't always seem welcoming.
It wasn't until a field trip to a design firm, where the founder explained that design was a fusion of art, communication, and emerging technology, that things clicked for me. Suddenly, the concept of integrating ART into STEM education (creating STEAM) made sense, and I delved into how art plays a crucial role in technology.
Fast forward to 2020, when I spoke at Wonder Women Tech on "Creativity, Technology, and Legacy," connecting the dots between my passion for creativity and tech. By 2021, through a podcast episode by Tim Ferriss, Twitter (X) spaces, and virtual meetings, I found myself immersed in emerging technologies like blockchain, AI, gaming, and spatial computing. As an organizer and partner of Hola Metaverso, founded by Oszie Tarula , we curated and created educational and networking experiences in the U.S. and LATAM, deepening my understanding and impact in these fields.
As an advocate for marginalized communities, I believe it's crucial for us to occupy spaces in a world that's increasingly tech-centric. Since 2021, I've collaborated with and supported projects that leverage emerging tech to empower marginalized groups socially, creatively, and economically. This dedication led me to an incredible opportunity to speak at the UN General Assembly 78th Science Summit on the Importance of Diversity in Emerging Tech in September of 2023 with the Women of Web3 founded by Sandy Martinez, M.Ed. and Anana.
Diversity in tech isn't just a buzzword; it's essential for building fairer, more inclusive technologies and ecosystems. Research has consistently shown that diverse teams drive innovation and outperform homogenous ones. Additionally, embracing diversity in tech leads to financial gains, as diverse companies are more likely to attract top talent, foster innovation, and capture new markets.
Imagine algorithms developed collectively, drawing insights from diverse perspectives across the globe, thereby eliminating biases.
So why emerging tech? It's not just about innovation; it's about shaping a future where everyone has a seat at the table, where technology reflects the rich tapestry of human experience, and where diversity isn't just celebrated but embedded in every aspect. It's about building a better world.
"If you're not at the table, you're on the menu" - Debra J.T. Padilla
I look forward to continuing to advocate for our communities and other marginalized communities. If you're passionate about diversity in tech or have ideas for collaboration, I'd love to hear from you. Feel free to connect with me via email at info@ritzyperiwinkle.com.
Who’s with me?
