We had the good fortune of connecting with Maria E. Batista and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Maria, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
As the daughter of business owners in Panama, my upbringing instilled in me a strong work ethic and gratitude for the opportunities my parents’ success provided. Despite their financial stability, my parents emphasized the importance of remembering our humble roots and appreciating the privileges we enjoyed. After completing law school in Panama, my life took an unexpected turn when my family decided to embark on a new chapter in the United States.

Our journey to the USA was made possible through my uncle’s sponsorship, ultimately granting us legal residency and later citizenship. In this new land of opportunity, my mother, initially a housekeeper due to language barriers, rose to become a housekeeping executive manager. Meanwhile, my father, faced with health challenges, found joy as a crossing guard—a role that brought him happiness through simple interactions with the community.

My professional journey in the USA began at the front desk of a hotel, leading me through various roles in call centers, non-profit organizations, and a college where I worked as a recruiter and advocate for articulation agreements. Currently, I thrive as a remote placement specialist for an ed tech company, a role that brings me immense fulfillment.

Balancing work and education, I pursued a second bachelor’s degree and, amidst pregnancies and the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, obtained a master’s in communication with an emphasis on education. Overcoming doubts and obstacles, I now find great joy and satisfaction in my career, defying expectations that a woman with a strong accent could achieve such heights.

Amidst this professional journey, I sought to create a lasting legacy. Inspired by a conversation with a former colleague at a call center, I began crafting a children’s book. Although we lost contact over the years, I took it upon myself to complete the story. Determined to leave my children with something tangible, I navigated the world of self-publishing with the help of online resources, finding editors, illustrators, and formatting assistance.

The moment my books and planner were published on Amazon marked a pinnacle of accomplishment, leaving me both thrilled and exhausted. This venture, born out of a desire to be remembered for more than just being a mother, is a testament to the belief that anything is possible with determination and resilience. The journey from Panama to the USA has not only shaped my career but has allowed me to inspire others through my written creations.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Navigating my career path as an immigrant with Spanish as my first language has been a journey marked by resilience and continuous growth. I initially earned a bachelor’s degree in law in my home country, laying the foundation for my professional aspirations. Upon arriving in the USA, I faced the challenge of adapting to a new culture and language. Undeterred, I pursued a second bachelor’s degree in human resources, embracing the opportunities for personal and professional development in my adopted homeland.

The journey didn’t come without its hurdles, as I encountered language barriers and the inherent challenges of acclimating to a new educational system. However, these challenges served as catalysts for personal growth, and with determination, I overcame each obstacle.

My commitment to education led me to further expand my horizons. I achieved a master’s degree in communication with an emphasis in education, a testament to my dedication to continuous learning and the pursuit of knowledge.

In addition to my academic accomplishments, I delved into the realm of creative expression. I authored a book available in both English and Spanish, showcasing my ability to communicate across cultural and linguistic boundaries. Furthermore, I ventured into the world of gaming planners, combining my passion for organization and creativity.

Currently, I am in the process of crafting two new books, which I hope to publish this year. These projects exemplify my commitment to storytelling and sharing experiences that resonate with diverse audiences. Through my journey, I want the world to recognize the power of determination, the beauty of embracing diversity, and the endless possibilities that arise from a relentless pursuit of one’s passions. My personal journey affirms the notion that perseverance and an open mind can turn challenges into significant markers of accomplishment and fulfillment.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.

I would bring them to downtown West Palm Beach, where we would enjoy a delightful dinner at my favorite restaurant, Elisabetta’s Ristorante. Afterward, we would explore the vibrant nightlife by hopping between bars for a lively and enjoyable evening. Looking ahead, I plan to take them to Orlando for a day of fun at Universal and Islands of Adventure, ensuring our time together is filled with excitement and memorable experiences.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First, I want to thank God for the countless blessings and guidance that have shaped my life. His unwavering presence has been a source of strength, and I am truly thankful for the journey He has led me through.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to my mother, whose unwavering support has been the cornerstone of my journey. Her belief in my dreams went beyond words, as she generously provided the funds that propelled me to complete my books. Without her steadfast encouragement, this achievement would not have been possible.

A special thank you to my late father, an avid reader and a constant advocate for education. His consistent guidance to immerse myself in literature and pursue knowledge significantly shaped my trajectory. Though he is no longer with us, his wisdom remains a guiding force, and I am deeply thankful for the enduring values he instilled in me.

To my children, the endless source of inspiration behind every word and every page. Your boundless curiosity and innocent joy fuel my creativity, making every storytelling moment a shared adventure. You are the reason I embark on this journey, and your presence is my greatest motivation.

Lastly, to my husband, a pillar of strength and unwavering support. Thank you for standing by me, for believing in my dreams, and for encouraging me to pursue my passions. Your constant presence and encouragement have made all the difference, and I am grateful for the shared journey we continue to navigate together.

Website: https://a.co/d/4Qdxkox

Instagram: mbbooksfl

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariaebatista?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=android_app

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMiami is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.