During Women’s History Month, Inspire celebrates the stories of our corporate and franchise team members, as well as franchisees as we reflect on the significant roles that women have played in shaping American history. 

Today, we spoke with Arcelia Martin, who is a Learning Manager for the West and Latin America regions and has worked on the Dunkin’ and Baskin-Robbins brands for nine years. She is also a member of the brands’ international chapter of the Women’s Integrated Network Employee Resource Group (wINternational). This group is dedicated to building community and engagement around empowering and accelerating the development of women leaders by providing avenues to connect with one another, regardless of geographic location. 

Why is being a member of the wIN ERG important to you?  

As a co-leader of the wINternational ERG, I find it is important to create a space where we can support, mentor and encourage women to be the best they can be. As a community, we find ways to inspire and provide opportunities for growth and education for all.

What are your goals as a member of this wIN ERG?  

My goals as a member of this ERG are to help build a calendar of events to bring about a sense of community, build self-confidence, break down gender issues and holistically look at ways to improve the lives of the women in the group.

What does Women’s History Month mean to you?  

A celebration of the great women who have come before us and a celebration of all those yet to be recognized. Our voices are still not at the level they should be, but we should recognize the advancement we have made.

How are you celebrating women’s achievements? 

Recognition and ‘thank you’s’ go a long way, from those within my own network who have made a difference in my life to the interactions I have with others recognizing those great women who have made phenomenal achievements.

Is there a particular woman in history that has influenced you in either your personal life or career? 

I would be remiss to not mention my mother and grandmother. “Whatever you have seen and danced, no one can ever take away from you,” is a quote they always said to me. They always encouraged me to dream big, study hard and travel. My grandmother was an immigrant and never considered gender an issue or a barrier — the world was for everyone to enjoy regardless of race, age or gender.

A challenged world is an alert world and from challenge comes change. How can you help forge a gender equal world?  

By keeping the conversation at the forefront and living it. This quote from Gloria Steinem really resonates with me: “A gender-equal society would be one where the word ‘gender’ does not exist: where everyone can be themselves.” By living and teaching others to be their authentic selves and being accepting of them, how beautiful would that be?

To learn more about career opportunities at Inspire, visit careers.inspirebrands.com.