From Undocumented to Wall Street & Immigration Advocacy
Julissa’s inspiring story of how she rose through the ladder at Goldman Sachs and Merrill Lynch and eventually became a nationally best selling author and prominent advocate for immigrant rights, Latino representation, and education equality.
Julissa discusses the challenges of Latininad in the Workplace and what this new generation of talent needs to truly be empowered and what past generations can come to terms with and all reflect on a new way forward of inclusivity, leadership, orgullo, and celebration of our uniqueness, origins, and the beauty of the differences that actually make us Americans.
Powerful discussion against the myth that assimilation leads to happiness and belonging for immigrants in America.
Julissa’s education story as an undocumented Mexican student- and what educators did to help her belong, and what they didn’t do that would have helped her to feel included. Some brief Latino history, children’s books statistics, and conclude with some food for thought to implement in the classrooms and schools.
Julissa Arce is a bestselling author, immigration advocate and keynote speaker whose remarkable life story has made her a leading voice in national conversations about equity, belonging and the immigrant experience. Born in Mexico and brought to the United States as a child, Julissa spent years navigating life as an undocumented immigrant while pursuing her education and building a career in finance. Her memoir, My (Underground) American Dream, chronicles her rise from living in the shadows to becoming a vice president at Goldman Sachs and Merrill Lynch—an achievement that defied expectations and reshaped perceptions of what undocumented individuals can accomplish.
Julissa’s expertise is grounded in lived experience and strengthened by years of advocacy, policy study and nonprofit leadership. As co-founder of the Ascend Educational Fund, she has helped expand access to scholarships and opportunities for immigrant students across the country.
A sought-after speaker for corporations, universities and social impact forums, Julissa uses her storytelling to bridge personal narrative with broader issues of immigration, identity and justice. She brings depth, clarity and urgency to her keynotes, empowering audiences to understand the human stories behind policy debates and inspiring them to take meaningful action in their own spheres of influence.
Julissa Arce is a trailblazing immigration advocate, keynote speaker, and the bestselling author of My (Underground) American Dream, her powerful memoir recounting her journey as an undocumented immigrant who rose to become a Wall Street executive.
Her incredible life story highlights her perseverance and dedication to creating a more equitable and just society for immigrants. Julissa is passionate about advocating for the rights of those living in the shadows, making her a sought-after keynote speaker at events that seek to inspire, inform, and empower.
With her captivating personal story, Julissa bridges the gap between individual narratives and national conversations on immigration, social justice, and diversity.
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