Opening my eyes to the new
By Sharla Franco Floyd, American Family Insurance strategy research senior analyst
American Family Insurance Strategy Research Senior Analyst Sharla Franco Floyd shares how her multicultural upbringing shaped her curiosity and openness to new experiences. As an analyst at American Family, Sharla finds meaning in analyzing industry trends and embracing diverse perspectives. In her story, she encourages others to keep their eyes open to different cultures in order to bridge divides and uncover new insights.
“Abre los ojos. Open your eyes.”
The very first words spoken in Disney’s acclaimed Encanto are deceptively simple and deliver what I view as life’s ultimate lesson and gift. More than Abuela beckoning Mirabel to experience the wonder of the magical realm Encanto, these words invite the viewer on a cultural journey, a feast for the eyes, ears and soul.
Most of my life has been a cultural journey, and to this day I soak in all the sights, sounds, tastes, smells and experiences I can muster.
I was born in São Paulo, Brazil, to a Ukrainian-American mother and an Ecuadorian father. I grew up in Mexico City. My parents embraced a patchwork of traditions from each of these places, something I continue to do with my husband and two daughters at home outside of Philadelphia.
My childhood eyes will never forget what a spectacle it is to be in Mexico for Día de Muertos, the streets lined with vendors selling sugar skulls of all sizes and colors, music filling the air. It is a riot of color and culture and a reminder that this is my favorite time of year.
To read Sharla's full story, visit the American Family Insurance Medium's page.
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About the American Family Insurance Group
Based in Madison, Wisconsin, American Family Insurance has been serving customers since 1927. We inspire, protect and restore dreams through our insurance products, exceptional service from our agency owners and employees, community investment and creative partnerships to address societal challenges. We act on our belief in diversity and inclusion by constantly evolving to meet customer needs and preferences. American Family Insurance group is the nation’s 12th-largest property/casualty insurance group, ranking No. 301 on the Fortune 500 list. The group sells American Family-brand products, primarily through exclusive agency owners in 19 states. The American Family Insurance Group also includes CONNECT, powered by American Family Insurance, The General, Homesite and Main Street America Insurance. Across these companies the group has nearly 13,000 employees nationwide.