Samara Mejia Hernandez launched Chingona Ventures in 2019, raising $6M, and just two years ago, she raised $52M for Fund II as a sole Latina GP.
We talked about her inspiring journey—growing up in Mexico, immigrating to the U.S., and watching her parents work tirelessly to acclimate and provide a better life. Samara shared her path from earning an engineering degree to starting her career at Goldman Sachs, and eventually transitioning into venture capital. An MBA from Northwestern University - Kellogg School of Management helped her find her stride in venture and connect with key figures in the investor community.
In our conversation, we delved into what it takes to raise a fund, manage the stresses and pressures of being a GP, and balance these responsibilities while raising a family. Samara spoke about maintaining authenticity, creating a mold when you don't fit into one, and the importance of being resourceful and scrappy—qualities she looks for in founders today.
Chingona is slang for "badass woman," in Spanish and Samara embodies that spirit through and through. This episode is a must-listen!
🎧 The full conversation can be found on:
YouTube: https://shorturl.at/m42NX
All Audio Platforms: https://shorturl.at/M4bka
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