For Wintrust’s Wendy Aguilera, Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the customs of her native El Salvador while also appreciating the life she’s built since moving to the United States over 20 years ago.

Initially arriving in the U.S. with a tourist visa in 1998, Wendy didn’t plan on staying in America any longer than six months. However, the opportunities available in the U.S. led her to reconsider her plans, and she ultimately decided to make her home here.

At first, Wendy’s time in the U.S. was far from easy, as she had to overcome a language barrier and a cultural barrier. Despite minimal work experience, she was eventually able to make a living by painting houses, washing dishes, and driving a forklift in a paper factory. Then in 2000, she received an opportunity that changed her life forever.

“I was able to get a job in a bank as a part-time teller because someone saw my potential and gave me an opportunity,” said Aguilera. “I seized that opportunity to learn the language and continually expand my banking knowledge and skills, which has led me to where I am today.”

Two decades later, Wendy is a seasoned banking professional, now serving as the retail vice president and branch manager of Wintrust Banking Center in Naples, Florida. After five years with Wintrust, she’s confident that she found the right team.

“Of the four banking organizations that I have worked for, Wintrust is by far the greatest supporter of work-life balance for employees and leader in going above and beyond for customers,” said Aguilera. “Wintrust is very community- and employee-focused.”

Wendy values being active within the bank and her greater community. At Wintrust, she’s a proud member of a Business Resource Group (BRG) that supports internal diversity. And through Wintrust’s Money Smart financial presentations, Wendy appreciates the opportunity to teach underserved individuals in her community about budgeting, saving, establishing credit, and applying for loans.

Outside of Wintrust, Wendy is a board member of the Literacy Volunteers of Collier County. In her role, she helps build a stronger community through the power of English literacy.

“My involvement with the Literacy Volunteers of Collier Counter is helping grow the program, specifically in the Hispanic community,” said Aguilera.

She takes pride in being an educator and leader within the Hispanic community and strives to serve as an inspiration to others, proving that anything is possible. Hispanic Heritage Month grants Wendy — and all of us — the perfect opportunity to reflect and celebrate.

“Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the achievements and contributions of others like me who have overcome cultural challenges to succeed in their careers and inspire others to do the same,” said Aguilera. “It’s also a time to recognize that there are many Hispanic cultures, and we are not all the same. We each have our own unique histories, customs, and identities.”