Liz Allison, Vice President of Quality for Panasonic Energy, and Iker Buere Cantú, Head of Legal & Compliance – Mexico, embody this spirit through their career journeys, relationship building and commitment to advocacy. They recently shared their perspectives during the Café con Éxito: Latino Leaders at Panasonic event hosted by the BLAAC Employee Network (BEN) Business Impact Group.
Iker Buere Cantú, an attorney from Monterrey, Mexico, has a rich background rooted in a second-generation Mexican-Lebanese home. Raised with the belief that success comes from hard work and kindness, he emphasizes the importance of building trustworthy relationships through companionship and an open mind. His journey to success included a pivotal decision to invest in his education, earning a master’s degree in the U.S. This move opened doors to a career at Oracle and eventually led him to become Panasonic's first in-house counsel in Mexico.
Iker’s leadership approach is deeply influenced by his heritage. He actively seeks to connect with fellow Latinos, believing we are all mejores unidos (better united). He passionately advocates for a greater understanding of Latino culture, promoting representation and respect for his Hispanic colleagues.
A significant source of inspiration for Iker is Monica Lopez Reinmiller, Panasonic’s Chief Ethics & Compliance Officer, who he sees as leaving her mark wherever she goes. This mentorship, and that of his first boss who pushed him to pursue further education and work abroad, plays a crucial role in shaping his professional journey.
Of Mexican heritage and a diverse upbringing across the Dominican Republic, Honduras, Venezuela and Miami, Liz Allison embodies the beauty of multiculturalism. Her experiences in each country have shaped her perspective, from the vibrant beaches of the Dominican Republic to the strength of indigenous communities in Honduras and the bustling energy of Miami.
Raised in a matriarchal environment, Liz learned early on the importance of self-advocacy. Her Tia Chella (Auntie Grace) would say to her, “Mi hija, no te dejes.” Which translates to “My girl, advocate for yourself and others.” And so she did.
Liz’s career path took a courageous turn when she left Johnson & Johnson for a startup, driven by her faith and the desire to make an impact. Today, she focuses on building sustainable energy solutions at Panasonic Energy, ensuring a brighter future for the next generation. Liz also faces challenges, working hard to be recognized for her heritage despite her name and physical appearance. She recalls instances where her ability to understand Spanish allows her to bridge gaps and advocate for her peers. To enhance Latino visibility at Panasonic, Liz believes in showcasing others’ hard work and commitment to community service.
Inspired by Mexican painter, Frida Kahlo, Liz carries forward the values of resilience and courage. Kahlo's dedication to her culture and advocacy for women’s rights resonates deeply with her own mission in her professional and personal life.
This Hispanic Heritage Month, join us in celebrating the stories and contributions of people like Iker and Liz. Their experiences remind us of the rich Hispanic culture and the strength found in unity. By sharing their stories, we honor their heritage and pave the way for future generations of all ethnicities to thrive. Todos unidos jamas vencidos! Together, we can continue to lift one another up and make a lasting impact in our communities.
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