WGN headlined a Hispanic Heritage Month celebration on Thursday night, featuring career insights and cultural expressions, including Spanish dance performances.

The event, led by the Chamber, began with a conversation between Ana Belaval and Jesse Hallock. Hallock initiated the discussion by asking Belaval about her journey from San Juan, Puerto Rico to Chicago.

Belaval shared stories from her career spanning TV stations in San Juan, New York, and Chicago. She has been with WGN for almost 20 years. She also talked about being a mother of two, her stand-up comedy shows, and her efforts to start her own brand.

The audience was engaged as Belaval recounted how she first visited a newsroom at age 14 in San Juan. "It was like there was electricity flying — I loved it," she said. "I thought, ‘something’s happening here.’ People are yelling at each other, and it feels urgent."

Belaval discussed various experiences in her career, including taking an accent-reduction class in New York and using an interview with Bill Clinton as an audition tape for WGN. Despite her success, she mentioned facing stereotypes in the industry.

"I’ve been pigeonholed — I still am," she said. "I am often overlooked because I’m funny and joyful. People usually assume that’s all I can do."

Toward the end of the talk, Belaval offered advice for those looking to advance their careers: "Educate yourself. Do the work. Take the challenges and be prepared," she said.

After the discussion, attendees enjoyed Spanish dance performances. The event concluded with Belaval staying to chat and take selfies with attendees.

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