“It is intimidating, frankly, to walk into a room where you’re the only one of anything,” said Giulianna Ruiz, partner and general counsel, Trilantic North America. “If you’re a woman, Latina, something that is just different from what the room is expecting, it is challenging to figure out whether or not there’s some kind of expectation of something that you’re supposed to be, or just really get your footing on how you’re supposed to act in a situation. Can you be yourself, or is there some kind of version you’re supposed to be?”

Watch the video to hear Ruiz’s insights on how private equity firms can help minorities and women feel more comfortable and welcome. The interview was conducted by Mary Kathleen Flynn, Editor-in-Chief, Mergers & Acquisitions.

For more, read Introducing the 2021 Private Equity Leaders in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.