CONTRIBUTING AUTHORS VOL. 2
Pattie Santiago
“These experiences are what began to give me the confidence to not only dream, but realistically think of having a business of my own someday.”
Pattie Santiago is a realtor, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. She began her career in the finance industry in 1991. Working with a financial firm for over 25 years gave her the opportunity to network and provide financial solutions to various communities in the Chicago area.
While Pattie valued the relationships she had built with her clients, she came to realize the need for translation services amongst the Latino community. Fully aware and qualified to meet this need, Pattie left the finance industry and launched Ideal Interpreter in 2016. Her agency provides translation, interpretation and mobile notary services to individuals and corporations.
As Ideal continued to grow, Pattie discovered a large percentage of the services were real estate related. During this time, she was already considering becoming a realtor and this was a clear confirmation Pattie was on the right path. She then became a licensed realtor and launched her brand Properties with Pattie. Through this new venture, she developed a passion for helping families find their dream home.
In 2021, Pattie founded Casa Esperanza, a 501c3 nonprofit organization established in remembrance of her late mother. Their mission is to help the underserved communities in Guatemala have a dream home of their own.
773-266-0879
Joanna Segoviano
“My faith in God is only rivaled by my faith in myself.”
Joanna Segoviano is the owner of Viano Decor—A Home Staging Company, with the Midas touch—everything she touches turns to gold. This young millennial businesswoman made a splash since hitting the home staging industry six years ago, staging 100 homes her first year in the business.
Always the A-student, Joanna graduated cum laude from San Diego State University, earning degrees in Psychology and Spanish. Her inquisitive and fearless nature led her to study abroad in Salamanca, Spain, conduct international research at Benemerita Universidad Autonoma de Puebla in Mexico, and to experience the empire state of mind at Columbia University when she was accepted to a prestigious research program.
Envisioning herself as a multi-business owner in the future, she foresees “Viano Home,” a modern and trendy furniture store in Los Angeles, CA. She also envisions owning a top home brand at Target. Accomplishments aside, her faith plays a large role in her everyday life and is continuously thankful for all the ways God has blessed her.
1-800-794-1610
Instagram and Facebook: @vianodecor
Angelica “Angie” Henry
“Making Home Dreams Happen.”
Angie Henry was born in Zacatecas, Mexico. Her family migrated to the United States when she was two years old. They settled in the affluent coastal communities in San Diego County where they experienced hard times, but they managed to attain the American dream of homeownership, which has fueled Angie’s passion for Real Estate.
In 2014, Angie Henry founded and trademarked her business New Palace Realty, Making Home Dreams Happen. She works alongside her husband Halton Jae Henry, a US Navy retiree, her company team of top producing agents, and owns multiple offices, investments, and commercial properties throughout Southern California.
Angie’s story is one that inspires you and was selected by Coca-Cola 5by20 as a Global Women Leader. She has received many awards, was the Founding President for the NAHREP North County San Diego Chapter, and is a President-Elect to the Women’s Council for Southwest Riverside for 2023. In 2022, she received the “Broker of the Year Award” for North San Diego County. New Palace Realty has been ranked Top 100 Teams by NAHREP, National Association of Hispanics Real Estate Professionals. Angie is also featured in bestselling books Self Made by Nely Galan and Lights, Camera, Action by Amy Scruggs.
Angie Henry has raised five young men and she is proud of her family and their achievements, some of them already becoming homeowners themselves.
Phone: 760-420-6191
Instagram: @angiehenry4homes
CINDY MEZA
“There are no shortcuts to success, you must put in the work."
Cindy “La Dueña” Meza is an award-winning realtor
serving Chicago and surrounding areas. Cindy was born and raised in Chicago and mother of five children. Cindy’s passion for building relationships transformed her career in sales and led her to focus on real estate.
In 2018, Cindy was awarded the “Deals in Heels” scholarship, to further her education in real estate. Since then, Cindy has become a part of the Realty of Chicago family and is now a top
producer in her company. Her awards include the 2021 Bronze Top Producer award and the 2022 Silver Top Producer award.
However, it is Cindy’s creative marketing strategies, her strong negotiation skills, and her knowledge of the ever-changing real
estate market that sets her apart. A strong advocate for women empowerment, Cindy’s “La Dueña” seminars have given women in
her community the opportunity to learn how to invest in real estate.
Cindy carries the value of hard work, integrity, and
outstanding client service. Her step-by-step guidance to make the dream of homeownership a reality is the reason why her clients rate her 5/5, with an outstanding track record of five-star reviews.
Her commitment will always be to provide the best experience and always put her client’s needs above all.
773-217-6493
cindy@realtyofchicago.com
Facebook: Cindyladuena
Rosa Castañeda-Velazquez
“I think the little girl I was would be proud that I never gave up, that I have become the woman I am today.”
Rosa Maricruz Castañeda-Velazquez was born in Dearborn, Michigan. She is the eldest of nine children. Rosa moved to the Chicagoland area in the early 80’s and has become a leader in her community—volunteering at Zacharias sexual abuse center. Rosa also served her church as a youth leader. She was very involved in helping guide, mentor, and role model to young people within the church community, also planning weekly youth meetings and retreats or mission trips.
Rosa also has served as Chair of the Hispanic Lake County Chamber of Commerce and has served as a director on NAHREP (National Association Hispanic Real Estate Professionals) Chicago for four years and now serving on NAHREP Lake County as Vice President. In 2015 Rosa received an award for Converted Prospects-Large Market.
Rosa is passionate about her family and helping others. She has over 20 years of experience in the real estate / title industry. When Rosa isn’t at work, she can be found cuddling with her dog, Chico, spending time with her granddaughter, husband and daughters, or enjoying a glass of wine with her close friends.
(847) 406-9210
Facebook: @Rosa.castanedadevelazquez
Laura Moa
“No matter the journey, give courage a place to call home.”
Laura lives in Central Florida and works as a regional training manager for Cushman & Wakefield creating e-learning curriculum, and facilitating instructor led training in multi-family real estate. She is a proud Latina born in Puerto Rico bringing an innate ability to connect with audiences as a regional trainer, instructional designer, and community leader using business communication, multi-family/commercial real estate knowledge, and marketing skills to meet client goals and overall project objectives. She champions an inclusive learning culture among team members, customers, and clients. Her real estate experience spans over 23 years with affordable housing, residential, commercial, land development, and mix use assets within her roles of property management, marketing and real estate education. She continues to leverage her housing program experiences together with the growth of her personal rental property portfolio. Laura is a Florida real estate licensee, HCCP / COS certified, Instructional Design certified, has worked with LIHTC, Tax Credit, Bond, SAIL, SHIP, and Senior Housing assets.
Laura is also Founder and President of Lily’s Warrior Project, a Florida based non-profit organization providing resources for at risk youth focusing on providing playtime resources and developmental support for pediatric cancer patients in Central Florida hospitals. She has recently launched a brand called Keepsakes Connect, dedicated to connecting loved ones and their valued memories through sympathy gifts. Laura proudly serves as a parent volunteer member for the Pediatric Palliative Care Bereavement Support outreach program at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children in Orlando, FL.
Laura enjoys reading, sharing with family, and friends. She lives with purpose making everyday memories at home alongside her daughter and her French Bulldogs Mango and Coco.
(407)928372
LinkedIn: @lauramoa
Yoly Magaña-Valencia
“Real estate cannot be lost or stolen, nor can it be carried away. Purchased with common sense, paid for in full, and managed with reasonable care, it is about the safest investment in the world.” - Franklin D. Roosevelt
Yoly Magaña-Valencia is a Commercial Real Estate Enterprise Market Planner at a Global Real Estate and Investment Management firm headquartered in Chicago. She also helps lead efforts within the firm’s Employee Resource Group to help empower Hispanic and Latino Employees. She is currently based out of Miami and Chicago; and serves as Engagement Officer for Casa Central’s Emerging Leaders Auxiliary Board.
Yoly has received several recognitions for her work in the community. These include a recognition by Negocios Now: Who’s Who in Hispanic Chicago, a Workforce Impact award by Prospanica, and several recognitions for her commitment and leadership as Director of Education for Prospanica’s Summer Enrichment Program.
Yoly is excited to lead work that emphasizes on education and social service to improve underserved and underrepresented communities. She is on a mission to change the narrative among Latine and wealth. She is the founder of Latinas Who Trade and Latinas Who Invest. Both platforms were created to provide financial literacy education and resources to our community who are interested in learning about building generational wealth, investing, proper retirement planning, and proper protection.
On a personal note, Yoly is an investor, an author, and a certified yoga teacher (born and raised in Chicago) that subscribes to the idea that giving ourselves to our communities is essential in our development and ability to reach our potential with both leadership and personal success. Yoly is passionate about making a difference and is a leader who inspires not only through words but through actions
Yoly graduated with honors from DePaul University with an MBA in Real Estate Finance and Investments and a BA in Business Administration. She is married to her husband of almost 27 years with two daughters, a son, and a grandchild who are her everyday inspiration to do good.
(773) 398-8994
Ana Sol
“If you persevere and trust yourself you will succeed.”
Ana Sol is a Floridian and Buenos Aires native, where she developed a career in real estate, remodeling, and interior design. She is the CEO of Merci Decoration LLC and Dream Home South LLC. Dedicated to acquiring, remodeling, and selling houses in Palm Beach County and Broward County, Florida.
She has a passion to help clients to find their dream home. She helps her clients find that house that needs renovation and share that vision with them.
Her husband Eduardo and her son Matias are always supporting her projects and dreams. They are everything to her. She loves to travel and to be with her friends.
She is an active member with Christ Fellowship Church and with other churches across the U.S. Ana has a passion to spread the Gospel all over the world.
Instagram: @anasolrealtor
Maria De Lourdes Rios
“It doesn't matter how long it takes you to get where you want to be, quitting is NOT an option.”
Top agent Maria Lourdes Rios of Main Event Real Estate Group in Chicago is a truly dedicated realtor who is committed to going above and beyond for her many grateful buyers and sellers. Armed with more than two decades of experience and a wealth of industry knowledge, Maria brings exceptional value to anyone who chooses to work with her, as she has more than earned her stellar reputation as a trusted, honest, real estate advocate.
Maria, who is also a Certified Accredited Buyers Representative (ABR), a Pricing Strategy Advisor (PSA), Real Estate Negotiation Expert (RENE) and the Short Sale and Foreclosure Resource (SFR), began her journey in 2000.
The excellent customer service Maria provides her clients has translated into a business that is based almost entirely on returning customers and referrals, a distinct achievement in the highly competitive world of real estate. Maria uses a combination of old-school and cutting-edge techniques, including social media.
Mrios0911@gmail.com
773-441-3678
Irma DeLeon
“Life can be challenging, but loving others will help overcome any mountain, regardless of how deep its valley.”
Irma is a highly experienced Producing Branch Manager and Loan Officer based in Chicago, IL, with a true passion for helping families and individuals achieve the goal of homeownership. Over her 30-year career in the mortgage industry, Irma has become an expert in structuring various types of mortgage loans and has built strong relationships with real estate professionals and referral partners. She is also dedicated to community outreach, regularly holding educational seminars for First Time homebuyers and advocating for building wealth through real estate.
Prior to her career in the mortgage industry, Irma earned her Juris Doctorate from Northern Illinois University College of Law. During her time as a full-time law student, she was deeply involved in student life, serving as the Assistant to the Director of Admissions and playing an active role in the Law Association of Hispanic Students and Delta Theta Phi Law Fraternity. Irma’s dedication and hard work earned her recognition as the first recipient of the Kane County Bar Association scholarship.
Irma’s commitment to excellence has been recognized by the YWCA, who named her one of their Women of Professional Excellence for her contribution towards the advancement of women in the workplace.
Irma is also a proud mother of two sons, Matthew and Zack Luckman. Matthew is currently pursuing his Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree at Georgetown University School of Medicine, while Zack is a computer scientist at Fannie Mae and recently married.
In her free time, Irma enjoys staying active by working out and traveling to new places. She is also passionate about spending time with her family, friends, and her beloved dog Nova.
312-282-1777
Mabél Guzmán
“These were not just properties; these were sanctuaries, havens—these were homes where all these stories came to life.”
Mabél Guzmán (ABR, CIPS, AHWD) is a Cuban immigrant raised in Chicago, where she’s been a REALTOR® for more than 25 years. She is the 2023 President for the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals, DuPage County Chapter.
Mabél is a broker at Coldwell Banker in Chicago, where she works with investors and rehabbers on opportunity properties in under-served communities and first-time home buyers and sellers.
In 2020 she served as Vice-President of Association Affairs of the National Association of REALTORS®. Public policy is her passion and she testified before the House Financial Services Committee in 2019 about National Flood Insurance.
She served on the Illinois REALTORS® Board of Directors. In 2014, 2015, and 2018, she received the President’s Medallion for Outstanding Service. In 2020, Mabél received the Distinguished Service Award. She served the Chicago Association of REALTORS® as its Treasurer in 2009, President in 2011, and was named REALTOR® of the Year in 2012.
LinkedIn: mabelguzman
Twitter: @mabsguzman
Pamela Re
"If I don't know, I promise I will learn it."
Pamela Re (Stephens) was born in Quito, Ecuador, and mother of two amazing girls, Ari and Olivia. Her mother and sisters are a big part of her life and success. Pam brings over 20 years of experience in the real estate industry as a loan officer. Her knowledge spans from real estate sales and residential title to lending.
Lending being her initial career and continued through the years, she has been in the top Latino performers of America, as well as the top producers in her current company. She knows the key components of a successful real estate transaction and understands the importance of communication and transparency. Being bilingual in Spanish and English, Pam brings a multi-cultural background to help expand homeownership to the Hispanic market.
Pamela will stop at nothing to be sure her processors, loan officers, and customers get the best treatment and success rate. She currently manages and produces in Nashville, Tennessee, at retail branch for Paramount Residential Mortgage, LLC.
615-815-7048
Instagram: @pmlstephens, @oneteamprmg
Maria Figueroa
“The time to pursue your dreams and goals may never be perfect, but trust that the universe has a way of aligning things in your favor.”
Maria Figueroa is a top producing real estate professional at Realty of Chicago. She has successfully transitioned from a career of over 25 years in corporate America to the fast-paced world of real estate. With her extensive background in finance, business strategy, and leadership—she brings a unique perspective to the real estate industry.
Maria is passionate about helping her clients achieve their real estate goals, whether they are buying, selling, or investing. She is a skilled negotiator, an effective communicator, and a natural problem-solver with a track record of delivering exceptional results. She is a trusted advisor and a strong advocate for her clients.
Maria is committed to staying up-to-date on the latest industry trends and developments and is always seeking new ways to innovate and improve her business to best serve her clients. She has earned several industry certifications and regularly attends local and national training events.
Maria is also a member of the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals® (NAHREP), the Chicago Association of REALTORS® (CAR), and the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR). She believes in the importance of building strong relationships and collaborating with other professionals and community leaders to help make a difference and be a resource.
Instagram: @maria_chicagorealtor
LinkedIn: @mariafigueroarealty
Rosie Rodriguez
“Lead boldly with your heart, and know that you have a tribe of women who will support you.”
Rosie Rodriguez is a thriving multi-entrepreneur who serves as a coach, connector, collaborator, and mom. She assists real estate agents worldwide in generating leads, maximizing profits, and diversifying revenue streams within the real estate industry. With more than 20 years of experience as a real estate broker and having established six successful businesses. Rosie has created a 7-figure income from nine different streams of income. Rosie coaches agents on how to avoid painful mistakes, how to free up their time, and make the most amount of money in the shortest amount of time through proven systems, structure, and mentorship.
Among many other major accomplishments, Rosie is also a two-time Best-Selling Author, a SUCCESS Inc. and PSI Certified coach, National President of Exp Realty Latino, CEO of Powerhouse Mortgage, and Founder of BAWS Inc. (a Women’s Professional Business Network).
Instagram: @CallRosie
Richelle Moreno
“You can always control what you do next, so rather than accepting to stay down, you can gather courage and create a story of success.”
Richelle Moreno is founder of AXIOM Contractors and recognized for her leadership and innovation skills in construction and real estate development. Richelle started as a single mother, and pushes through the face of adversity in efforts to liberate herself from all limitations set on her by her culture and society standards of who and how women are “supposed” to be. Rebelling against stereotypes and social stigmas, has led her to set the example of how women can thrive as a business owner in construction.
Richelle supports her community through organizations, such as the Hispanic American Construction Industry Association’s Sustainability Committee, Morton College Foundation, The M.A.I.N. Group nonprofit organization (founding member), and World Nations Rotary (former founding member). These recognitions are what fuel Richelle to continue to build her community up. Turning her fear into strengths and seizing opportunities when they present themselves is challenging as an immigrant woman. She embraces her roots not only by building up her own people and subcontractors, but also by sharing her knowledge and experience with everyone who asks. Her constant growth motivates those around her to do the same.
Richelle has earned a number of impressive certifications, such as NABCEP Solar Installer, Lead Renovator, HACIA FEJA Contractor, among many more. She is also a licensed in the State of Illinois as a Roofing Contractor, Licensed Masonry Contractor, General Contractor, and also obtained 9 OSHA certifications.
Richelle is currently working on a prototype model house, which she envisioned two
years ago, called “Living Organisms.” She hopes to reveal all the details soon.
(708) 400-7323
www.axiomcontractors.net
Facebook: @axiomcontractors
Instagram: @richellem.morey
LinkedIn: @richellebuilds