Rising ICON #16: Luis Argueta Jr.
What name do you prefer to be called?
Luis
What are your pronouns?
He/Him/El
Where did you grow up?
Culver City, CA – but I think Saint Paul has adopted me by now!
What city are you currently based in?
Saint Paul!
How do you typically introduce yourself to new people?
Beyond the “Hi! My name is Luis.” I try to pay attention to a name and make a mnemonic pattern based on our conversation to commit your name to memory.
What’s one thing you wish more people knew about you?
I love a good story! As an extrovert, people quickly lend the stage, and I just want to listen and get to know you better.
Who do you help?
Over the years, I have focused on helping business owners market well. As I have grown in my career, I shifted my focus and found a way to blend my work and personal passions for human rights advocacy.
What are you building now?
I have the privilege of creating a brand-new communication strategy for the Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs. I am building relationships and, most importantly, being more intentional about my time with family.
What were you building ten years ago today?
Ten years ago, I worked for WashCard Systems in Hugo, MN, focused on learning and diving into anything I could get in front of. I am so thankful for that time.
What do you predict of yourself 10 years from now?
Continuing my work with the Latine communities of Minnesota, I hope to have helped effect change in the process.
What’s a fact or statistic you wish everyone knew about your industry?
Based on 2020 census data, at least 345,000 Latinos in Minnesota live all over and beyond the Twin Cities.
Why do you believe the work you do matters?
It all comes down to believing in democracy. By working with community partners and organizations and listening to the people, we can put forward solutions that help serve our communities.
Who is your mentor and what is the best advice they’ve given you?
I am thankful to feel like I have a community of mentors who have really helped shape the person I’ve become. My parents are my most significant mentors when it comes to the tough questions, and professionally, a special shoutout to Logan Joyce and Linda Johnston, who always have wise advice beyond their years.
What piece of content about you or your company are you most proud of?
MCLA's A Portrait of Hispanic or Latine Minnesotans.
What publication do you hope to appear in next?
Mpls.St.Paul Magazine or Twin Cities Business Magazine!
Who would you love to be interviewed by?
It’s between Cristina Saralegui, Angela Davis, and Steph March!
If you had to give a TEDTalk tomorrow, what would the title be?
How to lead effectively as a servant leader.
What award would mean the most to win?
Honestly I have not put thought into this.
What makes zero sense to you?
Apathy.
What’s a word in your industry you hope gets re-evaluated?
The term "Illegal" could benefit from being retired when referring to immigrants. Often used in the context of "illegal immigrants" or "illegal aliens," it's dehumanizing. It implicitly criminalizes people for their immigration status, which is a civil matter, not criminal.
What game are you changing?
Belonging, Health, Education and Economic Development for Latinos.
What’s the next thing you’re a part of that you want to invite more people to participate in?
Early this year, I had the honor of moderating a special quarterly event called Stories Behind the Menu, which is going into its 3rd year in 2024. This experience has allowed me to lean into my love of food and stories! The best mix! I'm excited to share that I'll be moving forward as their event moderator in 2024!
Where can we follow you online?
Professionally on LinkedIn, and Instagram for my personal eclectic life which includes Life Time, family and food!
What’s one thing that makes every leader better?
The art of listening.
You can learn more about the Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs here: mn.gov/mcla
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We’re grateful to each Rising ICON for their transformative work. Thank you, Luis, for sharing your story!
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“It all comes down to believing in democracy. By working with community partners and organizations and listening to the people, we can put forward solutions that help serve our communities.”
Notice: It’s important for our readers to understand the origin of the interview content. The featured ICON contributed responses that were not edited from the original submission. All claims are made solely by the contributor and do not reflect the views of LAUREL or its partners. Thank you for supporting rising leaders. The future is bold.
