Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated annually from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, but for Assistant Produce Manager Tanisha Melendez-Rosario, it’s a celebration that never ends.

Born in Puerto Rico and raised on the U.S. mainland, Tanisha recognizes this month as an opportunity to educate others about her culture and how it has shaped who she is today.

“Growing up in a Puerto Rican household, I learned how to be confident and proud of my culture and not to water myself down around people just because I’m different,” Tanisha said while reflecting on her upbringing.

Tanisha instills the confidence she developed as a child in her team at #1846, Louisville, Kentucky.

Tanisha has been with Publix for 5 years and credits our inclusive culture for inspiring her personal and professional growth.

“My culture and who I am are seen as assets. The appreciation for diversity shows me that the sky is the limit,” she said. “I know I can be my authentic self, which helps me encourage associates to embrace their differences.”

Tanisha is passionate about breaking language barriers between Spanish-speaking associates and those who only know English. She enjoys teaching both languages to anyone who wants to learn.

As Tanisha looks toward the future, she’s motivated by the legacy she will leave behind.

“I want to make progress for the next generation and continue to move beyond societal stereotypes,” she said. “I hope my work will inspire others to pursue what seems impossible no matter what you look like or where you come from.”

Publix is a family — a big, 255,000-person one — with backgrounds from across the country and around the world. This article is part of a series featuring associates from a variety of backgrounds, age groups and cultures, and we love sharing their successes. We hope our articles help you learn a little more about your fellow associates who make up our Publix family.