Second Generation Leadership: A Conversation with Marcos Becerra

In this special episode of Performance Parakone, we turn the spotlight on co-host Marcos Becerra, a second-generation leader and a significant figure in the South Omaha community. From his heritage to his professional journey, Marcos shared his experiences, challenges, and aspirations as he continues to impact the world around him. This episode is a deep dive into his story, which is both an inspiration and a lesson in resilience, authenticity, and the power of saying “no.”

 

The Gift of Second-Generation Perspective

Marcos credits much of his success to his parents, who paved the way for his opportunities through their hard work and sacrifices. His father, a community leader in Omaha, and his mother, an engineer, instilled in him the values of perseverance and determination. Marcos acknowledges the privileges of being a second-generation leader, such as access to resources and mentorship, which his parents didn’t have.

However, with privilege comes responsibility. Marcos uses his unique position to support first-generation students while providing perspective on the challenges faced by immigrant families. His goal is to honor the sacrifices of his parents by contributing back to the community that shaped him.

 

The Power of Saying “No”

One of the most profound lessons Marcos shared is the courage it takes to say “no.” He spoke about resisting societal and familial expectations, such as pursuing a stable career in engineering, to follow his passion for filmmaking and storytelling. Marcos emphasized that saying “no” isn’t about rejecting the opportunities given to you but trusting yourself to maximize those opportunities in your own way.

For Marcos, this meant declining a near six-figure job offer right out of college because it didn’t align with his creative aspirations. His decision required faith, persistence, and a commitment to his dreams. As he put it, “If you say no to something, you better be ready to fail and learn from it because you’re saying yes to something else.”

 

Storytelling: A Lifelong Passion

Marcos’s journey into storytelling began with an early love for movies. A pivotal moment came when he watched the film Passengers, which inspired him to explore acting and directing. Over time, he realized that his true calling was behind the camera, where he could create and share stories that resonate deeply with audiences.

Through his degree in communication with a focus on radio, television, and film, Marcos developed the skills needed to pursue his dreams. His college years were a time of exploration, learning, and eventually launching his own production company. The experience taught him project management, creative problem-solving, and the importance of balancing vision with practical execution.

 

Balancing Right-Brain Creativity and Left-Brain Strategy

Marcos attributes his ability to navigate both creative and analytical tasks to the influence of his parents. His mother’s analytical mindset as an engineer and his father’s creative, community-focused perspective have given him a unique blend of skills. This duality allows Marcos to approach projects holistically—whether it’s fundraising for a film, organizing a community event, or managing a team.

In his own words, “The right and left brain can’t work without each other.” He believes that mastering both creative expression and strategic thinking has been key to his success as a filmmaker and leader.

 

Building Community Through Film

Marcos’s upcoming film project is a culmination of his years of experience and dedication. Rooted in themes of magical realism and Colombian heritage, the film is a love letter to his culture, his hometown of Omaha, and the immigrant experience. He sees storytelling as a way to connect people and foster empathy, especially for communities whose stories often go untold.

The film also reflects his commitment to giving back. By showcasing Omaha’s rich Latino culture and its vibrant immigrant community, Marcos hopes to inspire others to embrace their heritage while dreaming big.

 

Advice for Aspiring Leaders and Creatives

As the episode drew to a close, Marcos shared valuable advice for first- and second-generation students navigating their own journeys:

1. Be Authentic: Stay true to yourself and your passions. Authenticity is key to building a fulfilling life and meaningful relationships.
2. Embrace Guidance: While it’s important to follow your heart, don’t dismiss the wisdom and lessons of those who have come before you. Learn from their experiences to save time and avoid unnecessary hardships.
3. Give Back: Success isn’t just about personal achievement. It’s about lifting others as you rise. Marcos emphasized the importance of giving back to the community and using your talents to create a positive impact.
4. Own Your Decisions: Whether you say “yes” or “no,” commit fully to your choices. This ownership creates the space for growth, learning, and ultimately, success.

 

Looking Ahead

Marcos’s vision for the future is as ambitious as it is inspiring. Over the next year, he aims to continue growing the Barrientos Scholarship Foundation (BSF), which supports Latino students in Omaha, and to complete his film project, showcasing the untold stories of his community. For Marcos, success isn’t just personal; it’s collective. His journey is a testament to the power of resilience, creativity, and giving back.

 

Conclusion

Marcos Becerra’s story is a beacon for anyone navigating the complexities of ambition, heritage, and self-discovery. As he continues to balance his roles as a filmmaker, community leader, and second-generation ambassador, he reminds us that success is about more than individual achievement—it’s about lifting others and staying true to your values.

 

This blog post is based on a transcript from the Performance Parakone podcast episode released on November 27^th 2024.

“Performance Parakone”, derived from the definition of Paragon: “A person or thing regarded as a perfect example of a particular quality.”

Presented by the Barrientos Scholarship Foundation, our podcast’s mission is to inform young adults, especially those from marginalized communities, of stories and methods that will improve their professional development, bridging the gap between academic achievement and real-world success through access to information from community leaders.

Edited by Grace Dunbar