2023 Fellow Focus: Dr. Veronica Benavides + The Language Preservation Project
Problem-solver, creator, heritage preservationist…2023 Fellow Dr. Veronica Benavides of The Language Preservation Project shares more about her journey as a social impact entrepreneur.
What life experiences propelled you into the entrepreneurial space and made you decide to be your own boss?
I was driven into the entrepreneurial space by a desire to solve a problem and create something that doesn't exist in the world yet.
What do you enjoy most about being a founder?
I most enjoy the space to be creative and think big!
What do you wish someone had told you before you started your entrepreneurial journey?
I wish someone had told me that entrepreneurship is not only the image of what you see in Fast Company or Forbes Magazine. It also includes my father who was a construction worker and my grandmother who cleaned homes. I have a model of entrepreneurship here in my own community and I can continue to expand that model for generations to come.
Tell us about an experience you had as an entrepreneur or in starting your company that exemplified one of Camelback's core values: "Belief in Mission + Vision"; "Unafraid of Failure"; "Constant Learner"; "Humble + Hungry"; and "Give First."
One example is applying to Camelback in 2021, but not getting accepted. I was grateful for the feedback and used that feedback to map out next steps and focus areas for my small and growing organization. I would say this reflects "constant learner."
How do you stay motivated?
Through affirmations, rest, and time with my family.
Let's talk about your legacy. How do you hope your venture will make the world a better place generations from now?
I do this work because it is deeply personal. It is what I wish was in place for my parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents. It is what I wish for my children and for all children. Through this work, we seek to create a world where children who enter schools with bilingualism in their bones graduate with a sustained connection to their heritage languages and culture.
Photos: Middle and high school students from Justice & Heritage Academy in the San Luis Valley of Colorado participating in a Spanish for Heritage Speakers class. Courtesy of The Language Preservation Project.
What's your favorite book or podcast that you draw entrepreneurial inspiration from?
It's About Damn Time - Arlan Hamilton
Anything else you want to share about yourself and/or your Camelback Fellowship journey?
I'm thrilled to do this work in community!
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