Carolina Acosta and Aralis Mejia; authors of "Mamá Didn't Raise a Pendeja"

About the Book: Inspired by their own no-nonsense abuelitas, first-generation Latinas Carolina Acosta and Aralis Mejia share the tough love and bold wisdom passed down from generations of resilient women. Free of the saccharine platitudes common in modern affirmation books, this book bottles the loving reality checks only family can give. Quotes like “If you expect life to be easy, it’s gonna be longer than you want it to be” cut straight to the heart with perspective and humor.

Carolina Acosta is the founder of Tragos Games, a tabletop game company dedicated to unique products that celebrate Latino culture. With a background in art and graphic design, Carolina found a passion in designing products that speak to her heritage and has made it her mission to use her company and products to give her community more representation in toys and games. Carolina has a MFA from Parsons The New School and is part of the Forbes 30 Under 30 Class of 2021.

Aralis Mejia, a first-gen Latina, seamlessly blends her cultural roots with a thriving career in marketing, strategy, and events. Currently, as the Head of Marketing at Tragos Game, she leads impactful campaigns and charts strategic roadmaps. In 2023, Aralis ventured into entrepreneurship, founding Silara Marketing—a dynamic firm specializing in bridging the gap between digital and traditional marketing for hospitality, entertainment, and lifestyle brands. With her strategic acumen, Aralis not only plays a pivotal role in Tragos' success but also guides clients in creating comprehensive marketing initiatives, ensuring a seamless integration of modern and traditional approaches in the ever-evolving landscape. Her journey reflects a fusion of cultural heritage and professional excellence, leaving a lasting mark in both corporate and entrepreneurial spheres.