Paola (Pao) Gonzalez

You can call me Pao, Ola or Paola (and depending on how you pronounce that last one), one thing never changes -- I embrace each name as a representation of just how multifaceted I am.

Born in Colombia, my family came to the United States when I was a young girl. Today, I reside in Brooklyn and thank my lucky stars to live in such an amazing place. NYC is the diversity capital of the world, there is nothing like it. Growing up as an Afro-Colombian, made me appreciate all the spices in life, including mine. And I certainly have an unquenchable thirst for living life.

In 2007, I received my BBA degree in Marketing Communications & Event Planning from L.I.M. College in New York City. I studied Digital Media Marketing at NYU to sharpen my skills on all the new emerging technologies as it relates to the digital marketing landscape which I am excited to have completed in August of 2014.

My professional career began at MTV Networks in 2006. As an intern I played a significant role in the event coordinating efforts for the cable broadcast giant. MTV Tr3s was the bi-cultural Latino American entertainment destination and launched in late 2006. One of my most notable accomplishments was the success of the first ever MTV float at the Puerto Rican Day Parade. The event was the first in MTV's history and our talent was no other than Jennifer Lopez. Other projects included 360° programming campaigns and national promotions. My interests didn't end with entertainment media. I also submersed myself in projects which highlighted pro-social initiatives. Campaigns such as "Tu Pride", "The Dream Act", and "Voces" empowered the hybrid-youth audience to be proactive not reactive.

An invaluable takeaway from my corporate and non-profit experience is the ability to appreciate the power of creating authentic and impactful connections not only as a strategic means to grow a brand, but as a way to becoming a better person.

Today, I'm the Marketing Specialist and a Producer for Black Latina Movement. I'm thrilled to promote awareness of worthy and positive of Black Latinas in media entertainment.

In 2012, I took on the role of Partnership Coordinator for Queens Library. I'm proud of the work I have done for an organization. which it's core mission is to empower the community in which it serves through educational, job serach and social services.