As part of COCINA’s inspiring Latino Trailblazers editorial series, Afro-Latina icon Amara La Negra penned a heartfelt letter to her younger self. In this reflective piece, she shares lessons learned, the challenges she’s faced, and the unwavering pride she carries for her Dominican roots. The series, which highlights influential Latinos who have made significant contributions to their communities and industries, features Amara La Negra as one of its standout voices.
Amara’s letter is a poignant reminder of the power of self-love, cultural pride, and resilience. She writes with the wisdom of someone who has navigated the complex terrain of the entertainment industry, offering her younger self advice on cherishing her identity and embracing her unique beauty. This personal reflection sets the tone for her inclusion in the Trailblazer series, where her story is celebrated as an inspiration for others.
“Participating in this series is important to me because it allows me to share my story with others who may not have seen someone like themselves in the media before,” Amara La Negra reflects. She emphasizes the significance of visibility, particularly for young Afro-Latinas searching for role models in an industry that often lacks diversity. “It’s vital for us to see ourselves represented in all forms of media, to know that we belong and that our stories are just as important.”
The singer, actress, and entrepreneur, known for her dynamic presence and unmistakable style, speaks candidly about the hurdles she faced while breaking into the entertainment industry. “Being an Afro-Latina in this industry hasn’t always been easy,” she admits. “There were times when I felt like I didn’t fit into any category. But I learned that my uniqueness is my strength. Embracing who I am has been the key to my success.”
Amara’s journey has been one of defying expectations and challenging stereotypes. She recalls the early days of her career when her appearance led to rejection more often than acceptance. “People didn’t know where to place me because of my skin color and my hair. But I decided that I wouldn’t let others define me. I chose to define myself,” she says, echoing the sentiment from her letter where she advises her younger self to stay true to her identity.
For Amara, success is not just about personal achievements—it’s about lifting others up, particularly within the Latino community. Through her participation in COCINA’s series, she hopes to inspire a new generation to embrace their cultural heritage and pursue their dreams with confidence. “I want young girls and women to know that they can achieve anything they set their minds to, no matter where they come from or what they look like,” she shares.
A central theme in Amara’s letter is the deep connection she has to her Dominican roots and the influence of her mother, who instilled in her a sense of pride and resilience. “My mother’s strength and pride in being Afro-Latina taught me so much about who I am and where I come from. I carry that with me in everything I do,” she says. This connection to her heritage is something she holds dear, and it continues to influence her work and her role as a public figure.
Music, too, has been a vital part of Amara’s journey. She describes singing as a form of expression and connection, one that allows her to share her story and advocate for greater representation. “Singing has always been a way for me to express myself and connect with others,” she explains. Her voice, rich with the influences of her heritage, has become a powerful tool not only for entertainment but also for advocacy and representation.
Amara La Negra’s story is one of perseverance, self-love, and breaking down barriers. Through her participation in COCINA’s ‘Latino Trailblazer’ series, she continues to push the conversation forward, challenging norms and inspiring others to do the same. “This series is about more than just celebrating individual achievements—it’s about recognizing the collective strength of our community and the power we have when we stand together,” she concludes.
Amara La Negra’s story stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Afro-Latino community and the importance of embracing one’s identity. Her journey, from a young girl learning to love herself to a trailblazing artist and advocate, reminds us that the path to success is not always easy, but with determination and pride in who we are, anything is possible.
