Today we’d like to introduce you to Octavio.
Hi Octavio, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My journey with the National Hispanic Latino Association of the Deaf (NHLAD) began in Fall 2023, when I was invited by a past president and co-founder to get involved for the first time. NHLAD, founded in 2019, is a national organization focused on supporting and empowering Deaf Hispanic and Latino communities.
I started as Treasurer, where I built a strong understanding of the organization’s operations, finances, and long-term vision. I later stepped into the role of Vice President and served as Acting President.
One of my most impactful leadership experiences was co-chairing the 5th Anniversary Gala, which brought together over 200 members from across the state and nationwide. That experience strengthened my leadership skills and deepened my commitment to building community and representation.
Because of these experiences and my dedication, I was honored to become President in November 2024, and I continue serving in this role.
I am passionate about expanding NHLAD’s impact, especially in New Jersey, where there is a large and diverse Latino community. What drives me is our mission — building an alliance between Deaf Latino and Hispanic communities while preserving our language, culture, and customs.
We also believe youth are essential to our future. We work to empower young people to become leaders and achieve their goals.
For example, we partner with local Latino communities in New Jersey, New York, and other states to host social events where people can connect, learn self-advocacy skills, and feel proud of who they are and where they come from.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has not always been a smooth road. Like many nonprofit organizations, NHLAD relies heavily on volunteers, including board and committee members. Everyone balances family, work, and personal responsibilities, which can sometimes affect consistency and capacity.
Another challenge involves immigrant communities, especially during political or social uncertainty. Some individuals and families may feel hesitant or afraid to attend events or workshops. Because of this, we focus on building trust and creating safe, welcoming spaces.
There is also a nationwide lack of Deaf Latino role models, leadership opportunities, and accessible resources. Many individuals are still searching for spaces where they feel represented and supported.
Despite these challenges, we continue moving forward. Our goal is to empower the community, increase visibility, strengthen leadership, and expand access to resources nationwide.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
The National Hispanic Latino Association of the Deaf (NHLAD) was founded on July 24, 2019, by 12 founding members who shared a strong passion for supporting the Deaf Hispanic and Latino community. The organization is built on inclusion, cultural pride, leadership, and recognition of each person’s unique identity. The first president was Paolina Ramirez, who served from 2019 to 2022.
NHLAD’s logo represents unity, identity, and culture. The use of red and blue reflects many Latin American countries and Caribbean islands. It also represents culture, language, families, food, dance, arts, clothing, and traditions to showing that NHLAD is an inclusive organization that brings people together.
My work focuses on outreach, partnerships, community engagement, and leadership development. I connect with local, statewide, national, and international partners, lead presentations, promote opportunities, and work closely with our board and committees to ensure our work continues to grow.
NHLAD supports the community through several key initiatives:
– Social events that create safe and welcoming spaces for connection, cultural pride, and community building, helping reduce isolation and strengthen relationships
– Workshops focused on legal rights, leadership, advocacy, and self-advocacy, giving individuals the knowledge and confidence to navigate systems and speak up for themselves
– Deaf Latino Spotlight, highlighting successful Deaf Latino role models such as professionals, artists, and leaders to increase visibility and inspire the community
– Sign to Señas, a trilingual platform (English, Spanish, and sign language) that supports communication access for families, children, and community members by providing visual videos and picture-based content to learn sign language.
– Youth Leadership, empowering the next generation through mentorship, identity development, and leadership opportunities
– National Community Collaborative, bringing organizations and leaders together to share resources, exchange ideas, and strengthen partnerships nationwide
– Deaf Latino Ecosystem, supporting Deaf Latino-owned businesses by increasing visibility and building a community database to connect people with resources and opportunities
– We also host a biennial national conference where people come together to learn, share, and connect.
Many of our programs are offered free of charge, while we encourage individuals to join our annual membership. Membership helps strengthen their voice, increase access to resources and information, and stay connected to opportunities.Together, these initiatives create real impact by building connections, increasing access, and empowering Deaf Latino communities to thrive with pride and confidence.
What I am most proud of is creating spaces where people feel seen, valued, and empowered. What sets us apart is that we center language, culture, identity, and community belonging in everything we do.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
My advice is to start with volunteering and getting involved in local or national organizations. It is one of the most powerful ways to build experience, grow your network, and create opportunities.
Through volunteering, you gain skills, meet mentors, and open doors for future leadership and career opportunities.
I also encourage people to stay connected and seek guidance, especially because there are not always many visible role models in our community.
We want people to know: we are here, we are visible, and we are building a stronger future together.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.nhlad.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nhladsordos/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NHLADSordos
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/national-hispanic-latino-association-of-the-deaf-nhlad-308420345/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@NHLADSordos/featured
