Freddy Potoy Rosales
To support Pittsburgh’s growing Latin American community, Carnegie Mellon University professor Ignacio Arana Araya has launched latinos-pittsburgh.com—a bilingual platform designed to connect and empower its members. “It’s about lending a hand to those in need,” says Arana, of Chilean-Bolivian origin, who has lived in the city since 2008. “I’ve had a very high quality of life in Pittsburgh, and I want to contribute so others can enjoy it too,” he adds. The portal offers a wide variety of resources for both newcomers and long-term residents, including directories of businesses, services, and community groups, as well as practical advice on immigration, celebrations, tourism, and more—all aimed at facilitating integration and strengthening bonds within the Latino community.
“Pittsburgh offers many opportunities to learn, work, and live a fulfilling life. I hope this site helps you make the most of them,” the professor writes in his welcome message on the homepage.
The site currently features information on 156 businesses, 25 services, and 33 local organizations. Thanks to the support of a research assistant, 35 new businesses were recently added to the list. Arana notes that the English version has already been updated, and he is currently working on the Spanish version.
Behind the project is a diverse and dedicated team. Arana has collaborated with students Xitai Wang (of Chinese origin) and Natalia Hernández (from Bolivia), as well as Ignacia Barthou Gatica. The website’s design was developed by engineer Jesús Vera.
However, the project has been entirely self-funded.
“I didn’t receive any funding to create this site, nor do I generate income through advertising,” clarifies the professor, emphasizing that the true value lies in the time and dedication he and his team have invested. The impact has been tangible: Arana has received numerous emails from people interested in adding their businesses to the site, driving its organic growth. *“Now, my next step is to promote the page further so it continues to grow and serve as a reference point for the community,”* he says.
For those wishing to update or add information, the process is direct and simple—just email him at ignacioarana.a@gmail.com. At 45 years old, with a Ph.D. in Political Science and nine years as a professor at Carnegie Mellon, Arana remains steadfast in his social commitment. “Life has its ups and downs, and in tough times, a helping hand can make all the difference. Sometimes, that first push is all we need to get back on our feet,” he reflects.
Through this initiative, Professor Arana opens a door for many more to build fulfilling lives in a city that grows richer every day—thanks to the diversity and contributions of its Latino community.
