​

The digital publication aims to amplify underrepresented voices, as well as emphasize mental health and solution-based journalism.

AUSTIN, Texas — An Austin digital news publication dedicates its platform to Latino-based news in an effort to amplify the voices that staff says aren’t being heard enough.

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Austin Vida publisher and editor Nancy Flores, like many others, became all too familiar with the social unrest, isolation and lack of connection people were growing accustom to. 

Flores made the leap and turned the publication – which was once a place to seek out the Latin live music scene, as well as lifestyle and entertainment – into a news and culture hub that showcases the Latino community in Austin.

“All of our stories are connected to a topic that folks have told us that they want to hear about,” Flores said.

Flores said she and the staff began their path by participating at events and engaging with the community to hear about their needs. What Flores found was a pattern of people wanting to talk about mental health – a common stigma within the Hispanic culture. 

That soon led to a mental health column page where stories and resources were made available, especially during heavy news cycles when immigration issues have been under the microscope. 

In that regard, Austin Vida has focused on one of its core values, which Flores calls “solution-based journalism.” That includes articles focused on publishing resources and how to cope.

However, that’s not Austin Vida’s ultimate goal.

“We’re trying to strike the balance of, ‘We want to keep you informed without feeling [overwhelmed],'” Flores said.

Associate Editor Isadora Day echoed Flores, saying that they’ve found the overall want from the community is desire for a safe space. That’s what Day said Austin Vida hopes to provide.

“We have heritage here, and we want to live in unity and harmony,” Day said.

The publication sustains itself through memberships and what staff calls their “cultural warriors.” They also have a list of cultural events and activities people can participate in.

Although Austin Vida serves the Latin community, Day stressed “la cultura” – or “the culture” – is open for everyone to read.

“Our stories are important, and we welcome anybody to come read our stories because it can probably relate to anybody that lives in Austin,” Day said.