We recently connected with Nia Montalvo and have shared our conversation below.
Nia, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
As a female in the male dominated area of spirits and reviews, I have made it my mission to constantly stay updated with the latest in news, releases and events. This is in order to speak about rum in the most up to date and educated manner. I also decided very early in my journey that educating on a more professional way would be instrumental for my success. I am now a certified Master Rummelier® from the Royal Rum Society here in the US. I look forward to also getting my Wine and Spirits Education Trust Certification from Europe.
I have also just been myself and tried to meet everyone I come in contact in this new passion project. I have never thought of people as a competition because there is plenty of space for everyone.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I started reviewing rum in 2020. I have been drinking rum since the age of 18 (legal drinking age in Ecuador). I immediately fell in love with the rum and it’s long history with hispanic cultures. I review rum on YouTube as well as travel around the world visiting different distilleries and attending events related to spirits.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Passion for what you are doing. Don’t do it unless you have the passion, cause when things get hard that is the only thing that will allow you to over come anything.
Education if you are entering a new field or new passion project education is going to be the stepping stone to experience. Both combines will get you to the next level.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
Absolutely, anyone in the spirits, bar, hospitality or travel industry would be ideal but incredibly open to meet any kind of creator as we can always learn new things from other people.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: myrumdiarieschannel
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MyRumDiaries
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MyRumDiaries
Image Credits
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