Rocio Gonzalez-Zornosa
Name: Rocio Gonzalez-Zornosa
Leadership Charlotte (LC) Class: 40
Title/Company: Executive Director/Women’s Business Center of Charlotte
Hometown: Bogota, Colombia AND Charlotte, North Carolina
Education: AA in Computer Science, BA in Hotel & Tourism Management, Certifications in Business Finance, and Non-Profit Management
Current personal or leadership goals:
I have always been dedicated to making a positive impact by bridging cultural divides and promoting understanding, acceptance, and engagement between underserved business communities and the wider society.
What’s your best advice for Leadership Charlotte participants about making the most of the experience?
- Observe your current circle of friends and be intentional about including those who are not like you.
- Identify your strengths and place them in service of others.
- Be comfortable asking for help as you may allow someone to fulfill the desire to serve.
- Feel and live as we are one.
What’s one lesson or moment from your Leadership Charlotte experience that still sticks with you today, and why?
Every person is a vital part of diversity, as we each bring our own unique story, and every story matters.
In what ways do you stay engaged in the Charlotte community, and how could fellow alumni join you?
I encourage Leadership Charlotte alumni to get involved in community activities that support early education, as the strength of our youth’s foundation is key to their ability to excel academically and make a positive impact in the future.
What’s your favorite way to recharge or connect with Charlotte on the weekend?
I’m passionate about supporting small businesses, so I love dining at family-owned restaurants, exploring international corridors, strolling through uptown, catching live music, and enjoying the many public golf courses!
Shout out a local nonprofit or initiative making a difference — what do they do, and why does their mission speak to you?
My favorite nonprofit organizations are: 1- The Academy of Goal Achievers, founded in 2013 by my classmate, Courtney Coble (LC40), with a mission of “Developing Youth Leaders to Impact Communities, While Preparing Youth and Families for Post-Secondary Success.” and 2- Latin American Coalition in Charlotte founded in 1990 by Latino leaders in the community. The organization provides support to the Latino underserved community and fosters understanding by offering an array of large community events and festivals to showcase the beauty and importance of the Latino community in our region.