Meet One of the Leaders of Our New Hispanic Heritage Employee Networking Circle

Ana Hernandez, a Region Credit Manager for International Paper’s North American Packaging business, has been at IP for 18 years. She also helps to lead a new employee networking circle (ENC) at IP called Hispanic Heritage ENC. The purpose of the Hispanic Heritage ENC is to contribute to a workplace that celebrates and embraces the rich diversity of Hispanic culture.

Ana’s heritage is a rich tapestry woven with indigenous roots, Spanish colonization, and diverse immigrant influences from Europe, the Middle East, and China. Ana was born and raised in a city in northwestern Venezuela known as “La Tierra del Sol Amada” (or the Beloved Land of the Sun). The city, Maracaibo, sits in a basin surrounded by elevated land with high temperatures and humidity.

Her family, with deep ties to both Venezuela and Spain, instilled in her the values of love, respect, equality, solidarity, hard work and a balanced approach to life.  

“My childhood memories revolve around large family gatherings, especially during Christmas and New Year’s celebrations, beach trips to the countryside known as ‘El Campo’,” Ana said.  

Venezuela is a melting pot of cultural heritage, ethnic diversity, and historical connections. Ana’s upbringing in this culturally rich environment has shaped her into a person who deeply values her roots as well as the lessons imparted by her family, which she passes on to her children.  

“I love playing Latin American music while cooking traditional Venezuelan dishes like arepas (corn biscuits) with my children,” said Ana “At the same time, I teach them Spanish and of course, how to dance!”

As the new Hispanic Heritage ENC launches, Ana sees an opportunity for individuals at IP to connect with others who share similar backgrounds while also discussing challenges and celebrating successes together.