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Anniversary
Dear Houston Latino community,
It is with great joy that I celebrate with you the first anniversary of Houston Latino Family Magazine. One year ago, this project was born with the mission of being a bridge of unity, inspiration, and resources for our Latino families. Today, thanks to your trust and support, we celebrate 12 months of shared stories, achievements, and growth.
It is with great that I celebrate with you the first
In this special anniversary edition, we are honored to feature Cristal Ayala and Ingrid Barrera on our cover—two women who proudly and professionally represent Latino leadership in media.
We are also excited to launch a new chapter with the “Best of Houston Latino”. This recognition highlights the businesses, leaders, professionals, and families making a difference in our community. In this issue, we showcase many of the nominees, and in our upcoming November edition, we will present the winner selected as “Best of Houston Latino”—a distinction we hope to establish as a tradition to continue celebrating the very best of our people.
Thank you to all our readers, partners, and collaborators who have believed in this dream. This anniversary is not only a milestone for the magazine, but also a celebration of each of you who make Houston a place where Latino culture thrives with strength and pride.
Let’s keep growing together!
Thank you for being part of this journey. Whether you’re a reader, contributor, or partner, your presence and support help us continue building a publication that reflects the heart and strength of our community.
Challenges that Became Strength
Their journeys have not been easy. As Latina journalists, both faced moments of doubt and discrimination. Crystal remembers being told her English wasn’t good enough, while Ingrid recalls times when she felt invisible. Yet both overcame these challenges the same way: by preparing harder, working longer, and believing in their worth even when others doubted them.
“Over time, I learned that true strength comes from within,” says Crystal.
“My culture is my superpower,” adds Ingrid.
Stories that Leave a Mark
Beyond awards and recognition, what moves them most are the people they serve.
Crystal will never forget covering Hurricane María in Puer to Rico while pregnant, uncertain if her own family had survived. “My duty was to remain calm on camera, even as my heart was breaking,” she recalls.
Ingrid remembers a mother hugging her after an interview, tears in her eyes, saying: “Thank you for telling our story with respect.” That moment defined her understanding of journalism: “It’s not only about informing, but also about dignifying.”
Empowering the Next Generation
Today, both anchors use their platforms to empower young Latinas who dream of following in their footsteps.
Crystal advises: “Education is key—earn your degree, connect with professionals, and don’t be afraid to start with internships. Every experience counts.”
Ingrid echoes with encouragement: “Never underestimate the power of your own voice. Even when others don’t believe in you—believe in yourself. Your story matters.”
Redefining Success
For both Crystal and Ingrid, success is not measured in trophies or titles, but in resilience and community impact.
“The true face of success is that of an immigrant mother who, against all odds, keeps moving forward for her children,” says Ingrid.
“Success is knowing that every story I tell helps someone make a decision with the right information,” Crystal adds.
A Historic Moment for Houston
As the first female anchor duo in Telemundo Houston, Crystal and Ingrid are not only breaking barriers but also creating space for future generations of Latinas in media. Their presence on screen sends a powerful message to families across Houston: Your voices matter. Your stories belong here.
For Houston Latino Family Magazine, their journey is more than a professional milestone—it’s a testament to the strength, values, and resilience of Latino families everywhere.
