🎊 AI Spotlight: Maricela Cerrato 🎊

We’re excited to present Maricela Cerrato, VP of Strategic Partnerships at The Colby Group as this week’s AI Spotlight. 

Let’s dive into our interview with Maricela and see how she is using AI.

1. Share your AI origin story

I started working for Kurt Snyder and The Colby Group four years ago, and it was a pivotal moment in my career. Coming from Honduras, this remote opportunity with a dynamic global team allowed me to grow and expand my skills. While AI wasn’t on my radar at the time, the lessons I learned there laid the foundation for embracing new technologies to work smarter, not harder. I began in small tasks, gradually challenging myself to learn more about marketing and lead generation. As I progressed, I realized that to keep up with increasing demands, I needed to work more efficiently, AI was the solution. When I first joined, the work was intense, and as AI evolved, I saw how it could streamline tasks, reducing pressure and saving time. What once took hours of brainstorming, editing, and refining is now automated, allowing me to focus on creativity and strategy. However, AI isn’t a replacement for human work; it’s an enhancement. While AI brings efficiency, it’s the human touch, creativity, empathy, and insight—that truly makes a difference. AI helps me work faster and smarter, but it’s the personal connection that elevates the work. Launching LeadGen Insider was a highlight of my journey. AI streamlined tasks like content creation and subscriber segmentation, making operations smoother and more scalable. But even with AI, the human touch remains essential to success.

2. What three AI tools have been most game changing for you? 

ChatGPT, HeyGen, Seamless.AI, Captions, Gemni, Canva AI tools, Leonardo AI, Apollo AI Power-ups and more.

3. If you were just starting your AI journey today where would you start? 

First, I’d dive into AI tools that help with content generation.

Next, I’d explore AI for organization, then I’d look into AI for video and design. Finally, I’d make sure to explore the AI ethics and limitations. Check out Design Resources for the AI Era by WOMEN x AI.

4. Share the spotlight: Name 3+ women leading in AI we should all follow. 

• Mira Murati - Founder at ThinkingMachines Labs

• Daniela Amodei - President at Anthropic

• Lila Ibrahim - COO at Google DeepMind

5. As a woman in AI, what do you want our allies to know? 

As a woman in AI, I want our allies to know that diversity leads to better, more thoughtful innovation. Women bring unique perspectives that shape how we solve problems, collaborate, and design user-centered solutions. Allies play a powerful role in this space. By actively supporting inclusive environments, challenging biases, and amplifying women’s voices, they help ensure that everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.It’s not just about inclusion, it’s about creating smarter, more balanced technology that reflects the world we live in. With strong allies, we can build a future in AI where everyone has the opportunity to contribute and thrive.

Want to be the next in AI Spotlight? It’s a great opportunity to share your voice with our community!

Fill out the WxAI AI Spotlight Nomination Form for your chance to step into the AI Spotlight and to share your voice with the Women And AI community.