Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with Tammy Iban Mora
Latin America’s movers and shakers are spicing up our nation and what better way to celebrate these Latinx creatives than honoring them on Hispanic Heritage Month? Hispanic Heritage Month is a month-long celebration of Hispanic culture and history in the United States. This is a time to recognize the contributions of Hispanic Americans to the United States and to celebrate their rich culture and history.
Some of the ways to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month include: attending cultural events and festivals, learning about Hispanic history and culture, supporting Hispanic-owned businesses, celebrating Hispanic cuisine, learning about Hispanic artists, musicians, and writers and so much more.
As this is a time to come together and celebrate the diversity of our country, we’ve decided to cultivate a series honoring our favorite Latinx creatives, movers, and shakers who have made a difference in our communities.
Our first Latinx creative for The House’s Hispanic Heritage Series is Tammy Iban Mora, a Spaniard creative in the fitness and wellness industries based out of New York City. Iban is the mastermind behind Clandestine Mood, a secretive sporty party catered for women only that she launched in Madrid, Spain.
I had the pleasure of chatting with Iban on her journey in New York City, Clandestine Mood, her Spaniard culture, and so much more. Fun fact, she’s been living in New York City for only one year!
Tell me about yourself, Tammy:
I’m Tammy, and despite having graduated with a Master’s degree in Diplomatic Law, I have dedicated myself to brand marketing and communication strategy in the world of wellness and lifestyle. I’m originally from Ibiza, Spain and I’m passionate about helping people live healthier and more fulfilling lives.
I got into fitness after I competed in elite sports as a teenager. I first handily learned the power of fitness to transform your body and mind, as I wanted to share that with others.
After college, I fell in love with marketing and communications, especially if it involved sports. I was also certified in Barre and Pilates. I started out as a celebrity trainer and ambassador for international brands like Nike and Oysho. Over the past few years, I’ve grown my own brand, Clandestine Mood, which has become a global hit after its expansion in the United States.
What inspired you to move to the United States and what made you end up in New York in 2022? Also, how did New York treat you when you first arrived?
My first move was to Miami, but in my head, I knew I would end up in NYC. I was inspired to move to the United States by the endless opportunities it offers. I knew that if I wanted to build a successful fitness brand, I needed to be in a place where people are passionate about fitness and wellness.
I chose New York because it’s a melting pot of cultures and a city where anything is possible. When I first arrived, I was overwhelmed by the energy and excitement of the city. It took me some time to adjust, but I quickly found my place and fell in love with New York.
How do you feel you’ve broken barriers in the fitness industry in Manhattan and beyond as a Spaniard woman who just recently moved into the states?
I think I’ve broken barriers in the fitness industry by being myself and unapologetically embracing my Spanish heritage and my character and personality. I’m very outgoing and I talk to a lot of people. I love to meet new people. I’ve also shown people that it’s possible to achieve your dreams, even if you’re an outsider.
What are some obstacles you’ve experienced throughout your career as a Spaniard fitness expert in the big city? If so, what were they and how did you overcome these hurdles?
One of the biggest obstacles I’ve faced is being underestimated because I’m a woman and a foreigner. I’ve also had to deal with language barriers and cultural differences.
To overcome these challenges, I’ve had to be persistent and assertive. I also had to learn to adapt to my surroundings and build a strong network of supporters.
Where in the states did you first have your Clandestine Mood event and how was the turnout?
It was in Miami. I had only landed there and 3 months after my arrival, my first event took place in a nightclub in Wynwood for over 70 people. It took a lot of PR work, talking to people, spreading the word about the brand, and establishing partnerships. It turned out really well even though we did face some adversities.
In your opinion, what are some similarities and differences between Spaniard culture in Ibiza and the US/ and overall New York culture?
One of the biggest similarities between Spanish and American culture is our love for food and community. However, there are also some key differences. For example, Spaniards tend to be more laid-back and less materialistic than Americans. I feel people are way more ambitious here in terms of careers.
New York culture is a unique blend of different cultures. It’s a city that’s constantly on the go, and it’s full of people from all over the world.
Who is one of your Latina inspirations and why and how have they shaped you to be the professional you are today?
One of my Latina inspirations is Rosalia. She’s a successful artist and businesswoman, who has overcome many challenges to achieve her dreams. She’s also a role model for Latinas and Spaniards all over the world.
Rosalia has taught me that anything is possible if you work hard and believe in yourself. She has also taught me the importance of giving back to your community.
What advice do you have for aspiring fitness entrepreneurs, especially Latinx and newcomers to NYC who strictly move into the Big Apple to pursue their dreams to pay the rent?
My advice to aspiring fitness entrepreneurs is to follow your passion and never give up on your dreams. This means work, work, and work. I always say that the day has the same 24 hours for everybody. The difference is the use you make of those 24 hours. Money comes and goes but time does not come back. It’s also important to be persistent and to build a strong network of supporters.
To learn more about Iban and upcoming Clandestine Mood events, follow both on Instagram over @tammy_ibiza and @clandestinemood.