Patricia Castillo is the Executive Director of the nonprofit organization Connect Respect. She is the founder and producer of the Michelada Festival which is the organization’s leading fundraising event.
Previously, Patricia worked at Festival Productions, Inc. (FPI) in New Orleans for both the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and the Essence Music Festival. Before joining FPI, she managed and supported Procter & Gamble’s national multicultural marketing programs Crest Totalmente Latina Tour, Tampax Total You Tour, BET Black College Tour and the EBONY Black Family Reunion Tour.
Patricia is Fort Worth born and educated. She graduated from Green B. Trimble Technical High School and received both her Master of Business Administration and Bachelor of Science degrees from Texas Wesleyan University. During her free time, Patricia enjoys family time, her English Bulldogs, live concerts and sporting events, traveling, reading and volunteering for Meadowbrook Poly United Methodist Church.
What do you love about living and working in Fort Worth?
What’s not to love! It is a great city with so much to offer. Having lived here all of my life, I’ve seen so much growth as a resident and opportunity as a business professional.
How do you celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month?
On the evening of September 15, I enjoy watching the live broadcast of Diez y Seis, Mexico’s Independence Day, and the traditional ceremony of El Grito which happens at midnight in the Zócalo main square in Mexico City. Throughout Hispanic Heritage Month my favorite event is the annual Michelada Festival. It’s a free event in downtown Fort Worth happening this year on October 13. As a member of the Celebramos! committee for the Fort Worth Botanic Garden, I attend its events during Hispanic Heritage Month as well as the Fiestas Patrias event at La Gran Plaza, the parade in the Stockyards and so many more!
Where do you take family/friends visiting Fort Worth?
I first take them to General Worth Square to see the beautiful site of the Michelada Festival. We also visit Sundance Square, the Fort Worth Stockyards, dinner at Los Vaqueros, a cocktail at the Bowie House or Hotel Dryce, the Museum District, Botanic Garden, TCU campus, La Gran Plaza, Magnolia and the beautiful Texas Wesleyan campus, my alma mater.
How has Fort Worth's Hispanic culture and heritage impacted you or your business?
The City of Fort Worth gave me and my idea an opportunity to create the Michelada Festival which is an annual foodie festival that celebrates Hispanic culture, music and heritage. I was given the opportunity, and the Fort Worth community responded. This year the festival is celebrating nine years as a signature Fort Worth event that supports local nonprofit organizations and scholarship programs.
What advice would you give to Hispanic entrepreneurs and professionals who are just starting out?
Be selective yet strategic about the projects you take on. I understand how that is a luxury because revenue is important in building and sustaining a business. However, managing your revenue or budget is even more important. It has been my experience that being selective fuels my “do what you love” mentality so I go above and beyond for my clients and projects, exceeding their expectations every time. Being selective also allows you to home in and refine your strongest skills which will better prepare you for your next opportunity.