We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Julia Roncoroni a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Julia, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
Finding my purpose has been a journey shaped by my experiences as an immigrant and growing up in a household where social justice was deeply ingrained. My father, a doctor serving underserved communities, instilled in me from a young age the importance of making a positive impact in the world and standing up for those in need. My mother was a teacher; from her, I learned the value of showing up wholly in the classroom and celebrating others’ gains. Witnessing their dedication to helping others inspired me to pursue a path that aligned with my values and passion for social justice. For many years, I taught kindergarten and first grade, in Argentina. Over time, especially when I immigrated to the U.S., I discovered that my purpose lies in leveraging my skills and opportunities to advocate for marginalized communities and create meaningful change.
As I advanced in my career as a psychologist, I sought out opportunities to integrate my values into my work. Whether conducting research on health disparities, teaching courses on cultural competency and social justice, or collaborating with community partners to develop outreach programs, my focus has always been on leveraging my skills and expertise to advocate for those whose voices are often marginalized. As an example, my involvement in initiatives such as the “Cocina Libre” book and documentary reflects my commitment to amplifying the stories and experiences of immigrants and celebrating the richness of cultural diversity. Through projects like these, I strive to create spaces where marginalized voices are heard, valued, and empowered.
In summary, my journey to finding my purpose has been influenced by my background as an immigrant, my upbringing in a household dedicated to social justice, and my experiences throughout my academic and professional career. This realization has guided my personal and professional endeavors, driving me to work towards building a more equitable and inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
As an advocate for social justice, my work revolves around creating spaces where marginalized voices are heard and celebrated. One of the most exciting and special aspects of what I do is the opportunity to amplify the stories and experiences of immigrant communities through various projects and initiatives. Whether it’s through academic research, community outreach programs, or creative endeavors like the “Cocina Libre” cookbook and documentary, I aim to highlight the resilience, strength, and contributions of immigrants to our society.
What sets my work apart is its interdisciplinary nature, combining elements of academia, community engagement, and creative expression. By bridging these different realms, I strive to foster meaningful dialogue, promote understanding, and inspire positive social change. Through initiatives like the “Cocina Libre” project, I aim to not only showcase the culinary traditions of immigrant communities but also spark conversations about identity, belonging, and the power of storytelling. One of the most powerful aspects of “Cocina Libre” is that all proceeds from our book go to Colorado Immigrant Rights Coalition (CIRC). This makes the project full circle: by immigrants, for immigrants.
Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue expanding the reach and impact of my work, collaborating with like-minded individuals and organizations to create meaningful change. Whether it’s launching new community initiatives, organizing events, or expanding the scope of existing projects, I’m dedicated to advancing the cause of social justice and promoting cultural diversity in all aspects of my work.
We will launch our “Cocina Libre” cookbook and documentary at Raíces Brewery on May 21st, 2024, at 7PM. We will have a party with food, music, and an exciting raffle! We would love for everyone to join us in supporting our immigrant chefs and also Colorado Immigrant Rights Coalition. RSVP: https://udenver.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Reflecting on my journey, three qualities that stand out as most impactful are persistence, the value of relationships, and the importance of mentorship.
Firstly, persistence (or stubbornness, if you ask my family! ha!) has been crucial. There were many moments where obstacles seemed insurmountable, but refusing to give up ultimately led to breakthroughs. My advice to those starting their journey is to cultivate resilience and determination. Understand that setbacks are inevitable, but they are not indicative of failure. Sometimes, it’s about knowing when to pivot and when to persevere.
Secondly, relationships have played a fundamental role in my journey. As Latinos, we say, “people before task.” Building a strong support network has provided invaluable guidance, encouragement, and opportunities. My advice for folks who are early in their careers is to prioritize cultivating genuine connections and offering support to others. Collaboration and community are powerful tools for growth and resilience.
Lastly, mentorship has been instrumental in my development. Seeking guidance from those who have walked similar paths before me has provided invaluable insights and shortcuts. For those starting out, I recommend actively seeking mentorship relationships. Feedback from mentors can be painful when it gets real… but it will also take you places that you alone could not go. Look for individuals who inspire you and have achieved the goals you aspire to reach. Be open to learning from their experiences and perspectives, and don’t hesitate to ask for advice or feedback.
In summary, embracing persistence, nurturing relationships, and seeking mentorship are key principles that have shaped my journey. By staying committed to your goals, building a supportive community, and learning from those who have come before you, you can navigate challenges more effectively and accelerate your growth and success.
What has been your biggest area of growth or improvement in the past 12 months?
Over the past 12 months (and likely, for much of my career), my biggest area of growth has been in maintaining focus and consistency amidst challenges and distractions. Community participatory work, while deeply rewarding, often lacks the glamour and immediate gratification associated with more traditional scholarly pursuits. It demands long hours and may not always result in tangible products like publications, or at least, not at the same rate than other scholarship. Yet, I’ve learned to remain steadfast in my commitment to this work, recognizing its intrinsic value and impact. Keeping my head in the game has required committing to what I know is my space and not getting distracted by competition. By staying true to my purpose and avoiding comparison with others, I’m cultivating a resilience that allows me to weather uncertainties and setbacks more effectively. This ongoing journey of “keeping my head in the game” has not only propelled me towards personal and professional milestones but has also deepened my sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.juliarpsychology.com
- Instagram: @dra.julia.roncoroni
