Minority Majority 027: Latino Founders Raise $15M, Latina Actress Wins at Cannes, and Mexico's First Female President

INTRODUCTION
¡Saludos! Happy Friday and welcome to the 27th edition of the Minority Majority newsletter.

This week, we dive into the exciting world of fintech with Félix Pago's $15.5 million VC raise to revolutionize remittances for Latinos. We celebrate Adriana Paz, the first Mexican actress to win at Cannes, and spotlight Claudia Sheinbaum, Mexico's first female president. Plus, savor a traditional Guatemalan Hilachas recipe and test your knowledge with Costa Rica trivia.

So, grab your afternoon cafecito, settle in, and if you enjoy, please forward the newsletter to friends or share it on social media! ☕️

BUSINESS
Félix Pago Raises $15.5M to Revolutionize Remittances for Latinos via WhatsApp

Imagine sending money to your loved ones in Latino America with just a simple text on WhatsApp—Félix Pago is making it a reality. Félix Pago, a Miami-based startup recently raised $15.5 million in a Series A funding round. This funding milestone will help them expand their groundbreaking money transfer service, which uses WhatsApp to make remittances easier for Latino workers in the U.S.

The company was co-founded by Manuel J. Godoy and Bernardo Garcia. Godoy, from Venezuela, and Garcia, from Mexico, share a deep connection to the immigrant experience. Their mission? Simplify the financial lives of Latino immigrants. With Félix Pago, sending money home is as easy as sending a message on WhatsApp.

In 2023, remittances from U.S. workers to Latin America reached a staggering $155 billion. Traditional methods are often cumbersome and expensive. Félix Pago changes that. Its WhatsApp-based chatbot streamlines the process.

U.S. users complete most of the transaction through a chat, with only the final step requiring a secure link to input debit card details. Recipients can collect money instantly in local currency as a bank deposit or in cash from numerous pickup locations.

The recent funding round was led by Boston-based crypto fund Castle Island Ventures. Previous investors like Switch Ventures, HTwenty, Contour, and Mercado Libre’s MELI Capital also participated. This capital will fuel Félix Pago’s expansion into new markets such as El Salvador, Nicaragua, the Dominican Republic, and Colombia. More Latino families will benefit from this transformative service.

But Félix Pago’s vision goes beyond remittances. They aim to be a trusted financial companion for Latino immigrants in the U.S. Future plans include offering credit-building tools and actual credit services. This reflects the founders' commitment to addressing broader financial needs within their community.

Félix Pago’s story is one of resilience and innovation. By leveraging technology and the familiarity of WhatsApp, Godoy and Garcia simplify remittances and pave the way for financial inclusion for millions of Latino immigrants. Their journey, driven by personal experiences and a passion for making a difference, continues to inspire and empower. Even the simplest ideas can create profound impacts.

CULTURA
Adriana Paz: The First Mexican Actress to Win at Cannes

Adriana Paz has made history. She is the first Mexican actress to win at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival. Paz, alongside stars like Karla Sofía Gascón, Zoe Saldaña, and Selena Gomez, received the Best Actress award for their ensemble performance in the film "Emilia Pérez."

Born in Mexico City, Paz’s journey to Cannes began with her education at the Theater College of the Faculty of Philosophy and Letters of the UNAM. She quickly became a standout in Mexican cinema, winning three Ariel Awards for Best Actress in ‘La Tirisia’ (2015), Best Female Co-acting for ‘Hilda’ (2016), and ‘La Caridad’ (2017). Her international acclaim grew with a Goya nomination for her role in the Spanish film ‘El autor’ in 2018.

"Emilia Pérez," directed by renowned French director Jacques Audiard, is a groundbreaking musical about a Mexican cartel boss transitioning into a woman. Paz’s performance, along with her co-stars, brought depth and authenticity to the film, which was praised for its diversity and powerful storytelling. The ensemble cast’s chemistry and individual talents shone brightly, earning them the shared Best Actress award.

Many fans also remember Paz from her standout role in the Spanish prison series "Vis a Vis," where her meticulous planning and distinct Mexican accent made her unforgettable. She has also appeared in the James Bond film "Specter," and TV series like "Coyote" and "The Rebellion."

Adriana Paz’s triumph at Cannes is more than a personal victory; it’s a milestone for Mexican cinema and a beacon of inspiration for Latino actors worldwide. Her journey from Mexico City to the Cannes stage highlights her exceptional talent and relentless dedication. Paz’s success story is a powerful reminder that with passion and perseverance, barriers can be broken, and history can be made.

IMPACTO
Breaking New Ground: Claudia Sheinbaum becomes Mexico’s First Female President

“Presidenta! Presidenta! Presidenta!” chanted crowds in México and Mexican communities around the world as Claudia Sheinbaum shattered the glass ceiling by being elected the first female president of Mexico. Sheinbaum’s election is a pivotal moment in the nation’s more than 200 years of independence.

The former mayor of Mexico City, Sheinbaum is known for her scientific background and progressive values. At 61, she brings a fresh perspective to the presidency, promising continuity while also asserting her unique leadership style.

Sheinbaum, a lifelong leftist, capitalized on the popularity of her predecessor, President Andrés Manuel López Obrador. However, she is distinguished by her less combative, more data-driven approach. With a Ph.D. in energy engineering, she has always believed in the power of science. This belief was evident during her tenure as mayor, where she implemented strict COVID-19 measures, contrasting with the federal government's more relaxed approach.

Her victory is seen as a landslide, reflecting her disciplined campaign and the public's trust in her leadership. Despite this, Sheinbaum faces significant challenges. Violence and public security remain top concerns for Mexicans. She has pledged to expand the National Guard and address the root causes of crime, aiming for zero impunity without resorting to authoritarian measures.

Sheinbaum's presidency is also significant for another reason: she is the first person from a Jewish background to lead Mexico, a predominantly Catholic country. Her diverse background and progressive stance offer hope for a more inclusive and equitable future.

On the campaign trail, Sheinbaum emphasized her commitment to a strong welfare state and clean energy. She has praised the state-owned oil company, Pemex, but also promised to focus on sustainable energy solutions. Her pragmatic approach and dedication to addressing inequality resonate with many Mexicans.

As Sheinbaum prepares to take office on October 1, she embodies a blend of continuity and change. Her leadership will be closely watched, both domestically and internationally. With her scientific mind and compassionate heart, Sheinbaum is poised to navigate Mexico through its current challenges and into a new era of progress.

EN LA COCINA

How to Make: Guatemalan Hilachas

Discover the rich flavors of Guatemala with this traditional Hilachas recipe, a savory shredded beef stew that combines tender meat with a medley of vegetables and a vibrant tomato-based sauce.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef flank or brisket

• 6 cups water

• 4 tomatoes

• 2 medium onions (1 chopped, 1 halved)

• 4 cloves garlic (2 whole, 2 minced)

• 2 bay leaves

• 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes

• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced

• 1/2 cup green beans, chopped

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh cilantro for garnish

• Corn tortillas or rice for serving

Instructions:

1. Cook the Beef:

   • In a large pot, combine the beef, water, halved onion, 2 whole garlic cloves, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.

   • Remove the beef from the pot and let it cool slightly. Strain and reserve the broth.

   • Shred the beef into thin strips using a fork or your hands.

2. Prepare the Sauce:

   • While the beef is cooking, boil the tomatoes until soft. Remove the skins and blend them with the chopped onion and minced garlic until smooth.

3. Cook the Vegetables:

   • In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion and sauté until translucent.

   • Add the blended tomato mixture, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Combine and Simmer:

   • Add the shredded beef, potatoes, carrots, and green beans to the pan. Pour in about 3 cups of the reserved beef broth (add more if needed to cover the ingredients).

   • Bring to a simmer and cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.

5. Serve:

   • Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

   • Garnish with fresh cilantro.

   • Serve with warm corn tortillas or over rice.

Bring a taste of Guatemala to your table with this comforting and flavorful dish, perfect for sharing with family and friends over warm tortillas or rice. Enjoy!

NUESTRO TRIVIA: Last Week’s Answer

Last week, we asked: What is the name of the famous Cuban American singer known as the "Queen of Salsa"?

The correct answer is: Celia Cruz

Shoutout to Isa Cruz who responded and guessed correctly!

The famous Cuban American singer known as the "Queen of Salsa" is Celia Cruz. Born in Havana, Cuba, Celia Cruz became an iconic figure in Latin music with her powerful voice and vibrant stage presence.

Her career spanned over five decades, during which she recorded numerous hits that became salsa classics, including "La Vida Es Un Carnaval," "Quimbara," and "Bemba Colora." Celia Cruz's dynamic performances and signature phrase "¡Azúcar!" made her a beloved figure worldwide. Even after her passing in 2003, her legacy continues to influence and inspire musicians and fans alike.

NUESTRO TRIVIA: This Week!

Question: What is the term used for the concept of a good life in Costa Rican culture?

Reply with your guess! Answers will be revealed in the next newsletter!

RIEGA LA VOZ

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