ALPFA (Association of Latino Professionals for America) recently published its 2024 Rising Stars. Your Part-Time Controller, LLC (YPTC) Associate Maria Jimenez and Manager Patricia Nicolle Bueso are both recipients of the organization’s prestigious honor.

Per ALPFA, “The Rising Stars is a platform designed to honor and celebrate the outstanding achievements of high-performing women nationwide who have dedicated themselves to building successful careers while leaving a profound impact on their communities.”

To provide further insight into this achievement and its meaning, we asked Maria and Patricia to share their unique perspectives in the Q&A below.

YPTC: What meaning—both personally and professionally—does inclusion on ALPFA’s list of 2024 Rising Stars have to you?

Maria Jimenez: On a personal level, I am deeply honored to be recognized as one of ALPFA’s 2024 Rising Stars, and it means the world to me to share this recognition with inspiring women like my colleague and amiga, Patricia Bueso. It is a humbling experience to be on this journey alongside passionate and dedicated leaders around the US. As an immigrant leaving family and friends to pursue growth in this country, building strong relationships with other Latinas is a personal goal and a mission. I am aware of the barriers Latinas face in corporate America, and this recognition fuels my drive to continue working to break down those barriers and promote opportunities for Latina professionals.

Professionally, this award reinforces my commitment to working with purpose in everything I do. Supporting nonprofit organizations holds a special meaning for me because it allows me to contribute to creating a better world. One of the most satisfying aspects of my role is helping nonprofit clients with their financial and accounting efforts so they can focus on their missions to improve lives in the U.S. and beyond.

Patricia Nicolle Bueso: On a personal level, this recognition honors the values instilled in me by my family and community—resilience, hard work, and a commitment to uplift others. It reaffirms my belief that we, as Latinos, can break barriers and succeed in any field while staying true to our roots. The award encourages me to continue being a role model for the younger generations an

d my children, showing them that their heritage and lived experience is a strength, not a barrier.

Professionally, this award is a powerful motivator to keep striving for excellence. It validates the work I have put into developing my skills and leadership abilities, and it inspires me to continue pushing boundaries within my career. It also connects me to an incredible network of Latino professionals, opening doors for future collaboration and mentorship, which I see as key to advancing both my career and my ability to give back to the Latino community. In short, this award is a reminder that I am part of something bigger than myself—a growing, thriving community of Latino professionals, and I am excited to play an active role in its future success.

YPTC: What are the key experiences or achievements that contributed to your selection for this award?

M: I believe my selection for this award stems from my dedication to both my profession and the Latino community.

My passion for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) has also played a significant role. Since joining YPTC’s Equity Committee at its inception in 2021, I have served as a co-chair and member, focusing on initiatives that foster inclusion. One of my proudest achievements is founding and co-chairing the Latinas at YPTC group, which has created a sense of community and belonging for Latina women within the company, providing both personal and professional support.

Beyond my work at YPTC, I am proud to be part of the Women of ALPFA National Committee, where I help advance the careers of Latino professional women in the US. I am also passionate about changing the narrative surrounding Latinas in this country, which is why I co-authored Extraordinary Latinas Volume III, published by United Latinas, to highlight the impactful stories of Latina leaders. These experiences collectively shaped my journey and contributed to this recognition.

P: Before moving to the United States, I led and participated in significant regional projects that improved logistical infrastructure across Latin America. This experience showed me how excellence in finance and accounting could impact communities, which fueled my desire to find similar opportunities here. I found even more fulfillment in working with nonprofit organizations, which has been motivating and humbling.

At YPTC, I have had the freedom to excel in areas that inspire me, supporting colleagues and clients. As an Associate and now Manager, I have had the opportunity to collaborate with leaders who dedicate themselves to their missions. This drives my passion for helping these organizations grow by improving efficiencies and providing accurate financial information to support decision-making.

Navigating a new professional landscape after moving to the U.S. four years ago required resilience and adaptability, and it is a personal achievement I am proud of. My continuous learning and development have helped me take on leadership roles and deliver high-quality work. I would be remiss not to mention my family, who not only push me to excel every day but support me during challenging times. Without them, I would not be the person I am today.

YPTC: How has recognition as a Rising Star influenced your career or your approach to leadership?

M: Being recognized as a Rising Star has solidified my commitment to advancing DEI initiatives, particularly within the accounting profession, where there is a significant need to attract and retain diverse talent.

In terms of leadership, it has reinforced my sense of responsibility to continue elevating Latinas and amplify the voices of Latino(a)s making an impact in their communities. By leading initiatives that promote inclusion and allyship, I aim to influence and inspire others within my company to embrace diversity as a core value.

P: Being recognized as a Rising Star has heightened my awareness of the influence I can have on other Latinos, both by leading by example and by paving the way for those who come after me. It has deepened my appreciation for my background and experiences. When I first began working in the U.S., I felt nervous due to cultural differences and tried to fit in. Over time, I realized that my unique perspective was a strength that set me apart.

This recognition has given me a stronger sense of responsibility as a Latina leader to uplift other Latino professionals, especially as we face a pivotal moment in the accounting profession. It has also connected me to a powerful network of Latino professionals, creating opportunities for collaboration and mentorship that can open doors not only for me but for others, amplifying our collective impact on the community.

YPTC: What advice would you give to emerging professionals?

M: For emerging professionals, I would suggest the following:

• Find your purpose and align it with your career: Reflect on your passions, core values, and seek out opportunities that align with them. Purpose-driven work provides long-term fulfillment and direction in your professional journey.
• Build your network early: Building relationships is as essential as working hard. A strong network can introduce you to mentors, sponsors, allies, and long-term friends, which will provide guidance and open doors to career growth.
• Create your personal board of directors: Assemble a diverse group of 5-8 individuals you trust for career advice. Include a mentor, sponsor, career coach, ally, and even a family member with a professional background. Their insights and perspectives will help you navigate your career with more confidence.
• Volunteer for causes that matter to you: Volunteering not only helps your community but also helps you build leadership skills, which are transferable to your professional career. It is an excellent way to give back while enhancing your skillset.
• Finally, explore careers in the nonprofit sector early on: Nonprofits offer unique opportunities to contribute to meaningful missions while developing a broad range of skills. Gaining experience in the nonprofit sector early in your career can give you a more holistic view of how organizations function and how your work can have a social impact.

P: To emerging professionals, I would offer three key pieces of advice:

• Believe in yourself and embrace risks: Confidence is crucial in navigating your career. Do not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone; taking calculated risks can lead to incredible opportunities for growth and development.
• Cultivate a supportive network: Surround yourself with people who inspire, challenge, and uplift you. Building relationships with mentors and peers who share your values can provide invaluable support and guidance throughout your professional journey.
• Strive for excellence in every role: No matter what position you hold, always give your best effort. Look for ways to improve your role and the organization, leaving it in a better state than when you started. This commitment to excellence not only enhances your skills but also sets a positive example for others.

To learn more about YPTC and our culture, click here.