Why I’m paying it forward
- Posted on July 13, 2021
- Estimated reading time 2 minutes
When you’re born to Mexican immigrant parents in a small town where agriculture is the primary industry, establishing a career at an organization like Avanade can sometimes feel unimaginable. Despite that notion, it’s been over 24 years since I joined the Avanade and Accenture team, and of that tenure, 21 of those years have been with Avanade. During my time here, I’ve led large complex deliveries and assumed several key North America and regional leadership roles, but this year things looked a little different for me – I was presented with the opportunity to be Avanade’s Latinx Employee Network Executive Sponsor. I immediately knew Adelante was the space I could take all the experience I’ve gathered throughout the years to develop Avanade’s community of Latinx employees that were looking to grow.
To understand why I’m paying it forward, you have to understand how I got here. For over 50 years, my father was a farmhand and worked with the same family for three generations. His work ethic and commitment were unmatched. Even after laborious days, he was always willing to help other farmers and never expected anything in return aside from a humble “thank you.” His selflessness left a lasting impression on me. So, I pay it forward because my father would be proud to see me furthering his legacy.
When I joined the military, I took a similar approach by helping fellow infantry soldiers. When a soldier would fall behind during combat training missions, our platoon would return, carry their extra equipment, and offer words of encouragement. So, I pay it forward because encouragement will instill the confidence in our future leaders to reach the next level.
Fast forward a few years through college, I joined Accenture and landed my first technical leadership opportunity leading a team in Dallas, TX and in Dublin, Ireland. Not only was it my first leadership opportunity in a corporate setting, but it was also one of my first mentee opportunities. During this time, I was mentored and coached by two impactful female leaders who pushed me to succeed. I didn’t realize it at the time, but their leadership instilled an unbiased leadership quality early in my professional career. During my time at Avanade, I’ve worked with a diverse bunch of project and organization leaders and Career Advisers that have inspired, coached, and given me opportunities to continue to grow and believe in myself. So, I pay it forward to share what so many have shared with me throughout the years.
I wanted others to know that the Latino who worked on West Texas cotton fields for 12-hour days in the Texas summer heat with his Mexican parents and later went to serve as an Army Infantry soldier could indeed become a leader. So, I pay it forward to the young leaders of Adelante who have shown courage in the face of adversity because leadership is only unimaginable when you don’t have the right mentors advocating for what you might not see in yourself.
Category Community
Laura Anderson
Chuy- Thank you for sharing your history, thoughts and how you'll continue caring for future generations.
Lisa Kochert
Chuy - you continue to amaze me! Thank you for sharing your story, for being you and for paying it forward! Avanade has always been a better place with you here.
Chuy Cazares
Thank you everyone for the kind words. We'll continue to push forward and beyond!
Rudy Diaz
Inspiring Story Chuy! The model you've defined is intuitive for everyone to follow. Thank you so much for sharing :)
Brad Gephart
One of the most positive and hard working individuals I have been privileged to work with for so many years!
Chuy Cazares
Thank you Brad!
Lucia Lomellin
Thank you for sharing, Chuy! Many of us can relate to the sacrifices our parents made for us in order to provide us a better life and more opportunities!
Larry Mathias
Thanks for sharing your story, Chuy. Your leadership here at Avanade is unparalleled!
Charlie Zaragoza
Thanks for sharing a heartfelt story. Giving is inspiring. When you see people around you being super generous, you want to join in, right? People who give back are not only the happiest people on the planet, but they also truly live more fulfilling lives. Thank you Chuy.
Brittney Rodriguez
Thank you, Chuy for sharing your story! I have the pleasure of working with you through Adelante, and always appreciate our conversations, guidance, and mentorship.
Donald Scott II
One of my first projects was with Chuy. He provided wise guidance, leadership, and made a lasting impression that I carry with me now. Thank you for your dedication and service.
Michael Harris
Avanade is lucky to have passionate leaders like you at the helm! Thank you for your continued delivery leadership, mentorship, and passion to grow our future leaders.
Mina Rabideaux
Thank you for all of your continued support, Chuy. Your leadership and guidance is the catalyst behind Adelante's success.
Betty Martinez
Chuy - thank you for sharing your story, your mentorship and ongoing support with Adelante!
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