As part of Hispanic Heritage Month, we are highlighting the stories of employees who have visited their home or native country, sharing the culture, traditions, and memories that make those places so meaningful. These reflections remind us of the strength and beauty within our RAM family and the communities we represent.
Our next spotlight features Stephanie Valencia, Community Manager at Villa Patricia.
Country Visited: Colombia
Photo Location: Her family’s home in Medellín
Stephanie shared a heartfelt reflection about her connection to Medellín, Colombia—a place deeply tied to her childhood and her happiest memories.
“My greatest childhood memories are rooted in Medellín, and every visit feels like going home. The mountains, the fresh air, and the vibrant energy of the city instantly take me back to those moments, filling me with peace and joy. That’s why Medellín will always hold a special place in my heart and why I’m drawn to return whenever I can.”
Stephanie’s story captures the comfort of returning to the places that shaped us and the deep sense of belonging that comes with revisiting home. Thank you, Stephanie, for sharing your story and helping us continue our celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month.
Together, we honor the beauty, strength, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities within our RAM family.
NAA DE&I Awareness Week is Almost Here!
It’s time for NAA’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) Awareness Week! NAA has planned five days of learning to help you grow as a DE&I advocate and policy leader, both in the workplace and your community.
Starting on Monday, October 20, each day will feature an expert-led session that builds on the previous day’s lessons. These webinars will explore key DE&I topics and provide strategies to support an inclusive environment in the rental housing industry. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to strengthen your skills and understanding in creating sustainable DE&I practices!
Webinar Schedule:
- Oct. 20, 2 p.m. – Communities that Care: Bridging Belonging, Housing and Mental Wellbeing
- Oct. 21, 2 p.m. – Your Belonging Blueprint: Practical Steps for Inclusive Teams
- Oct. 22, 2 p.m. – The Path to Inclusive Leadership: Strategies, Mentorship and a 30-Day Challenge for Lasting Change
- Oct. 23, 2 p.m. – New Gen, New Inclusion
- Oct. 24, 2 p.m. – Neuro-WHAT? Unleashing the Superpower Within!
Make sure to tune in, take notes, and be part of the conversation as we continue to foster a culture of inclusion at Royal American Management and beyond. Let’s use this week to empower ourselves and each other to lead with purpose!
As part of Hispanic Heritage Month, we are highlighting the stories of employees who have visited their home or native country, sharing the culture, traditions, and memories that make those places so meaningful. These reflections remind us of the strength and beauty within our RAM family and the communities we represent.
Our next spotlight features Ashley Bejarano, Resident Services Program Coordinator
- Country Visited: Nicaragua
- Photo Location: Parque Nacional Volcán Masaya, next to an active volcano
Ashley shared a powerful story about her visit to Nicaragua, the homeland of her parents. In 2019, she saved up to take her mom on this special trip, where they spent time exploring the breathtaking landscapes and reconnecting with their family’s roots.
“It was special because I had saved up to cover the flight and hotel so I could take my mom to her homeland. We spent quality time together and took in the breathtaking landscapes of Nicaragua. I’m proud to be born and raised in America, but visiting the place where my parents are from was both eye-opening and deeply grounding—a beautiful cultural experience that helped me connect with my roots.”
Ashley’s reflection captures the beauty of reconnecting with heritage and the gratitude that comes from experiencing family history firsthand. Thank you, Ashley, for sharing your story and for helping us celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with such heartfelt perspective.
Together, we honor the beauty, strength, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities within our RAM family.
