Ilia Calderón is one of the most influential journalists in the Spanish-speaking world. Widely recognized as a trailblazer for Afro-Latinas in media, she has broken barriers in broadcast journalism through courage, professionalism, and a deep commitment to social justice. Best known as a longtime anchor and correspondent for Univision, Ilia Calderón’s biography is a powerful story of resilience, excellence, and representation.

From her humble beginnings in Colombia to becoming one of the most respected faces on American Spanish-language television, Calderón has used journalism as a tool to expose injustice, amplify marginalized voices, and challenge systemic racism. This in-depth biography explores Ilia Calderón’s early life, education, career milestones, family, awards, activism, and legacy.

Early Life and Background

Ilia Calderón was born on September 15, 1972, in Chocó, Colombia, a region known for its rich Afro-Colombian heritage but also for long-standing economic and social inequality. Growing up in a predominantly Afro-descendant community, Calderón witnessed racial discrimination and poverty at an early age—experiences that would later shape her journalistic mission.

Her upbringing instilled in her a strong sense of identity, resilience, and responsibility to speak truth to power. Despite limited resources, Ilia excelled academically and showed an early interest in communication, storytelling, and current affairs.

Education

Ilia Calderón pursued higher education at the University of Antioquia in Medellín, Colombia, where she earned a degree in Social Communication and Journalism. During her university years, she honed her skills in investigative reporting, public speaking, and media ethics.

Her academic foundation prepared her for the demanding world of broadcast journalism and helped her develop a strong analytical voice—one that would later define her work on both Colombian and international platforms.

Early Journalism Career in Colombia

Calderón began her journalism career in Colombia, working with major national media outlets. One of her earliest and most notable roles was with Caracol Televisión, one of Colombia’s leading television networks.

At Caracol, she gained experience as a news presenter and reporter, covering politics, social issues, and human-interest stories. Her professionalism and on-screen presence quickly set her apart, earning her recognition as one of the country’s promising journalists.

Move to the United States and Univision Career

Ilia Calderón’s career took a major turn when she relocated to the United States. She joined Univision, the largest Spanish-language television network in the U.S., where she would make history.

Historic Achievement at Univision

In 2017, Ilia Calderón became the first Afro-Latina to co-anchor Univision’s national evening newscast, Noticiero Univision, alongside Jorge Ramos. This milestone was not only a personal achievement but also a historic moment for representation in Spanish-language media.

Her presence on the anchor desk symbolized progress for Afro-Latinos who had long been underrepresented in mainstream media.

Investigative Journalism and Fearless Reporting

Ilia Calderón is especially respected for her fearless investigative journalism. She has conducted hard-hitting interviews with controversial figures, including white supremacists and extremist leaders in the United States.

One of her most talked-about interviews involved confronting a known white nationalist on live television—an encounter that drew international attention and highlighted her courage and professionalism.

Her reporting often focuses on:

• Racism and discrimination
• Immigration issues
• Human rights violations
• Social and economic inequality

Advocacy and Activism

Beyond journalism, Ilia Calderón is a passionate advocate for racial equality, diversity, and inclusion. She uses her platform to speak openly about Afro-Latino identity, colorism, and systemic racism in both Latin America and the United States.

She is also the author of the book “Aquellos Días” (and later works focused on race and identity), where she shares personal experiences and reflections on being a Black woman in predominantly white and mestizo media spaces.

Family and Personal Life

Ilia Calderón is married to Eugenio Derbez Jr., a Colombian-born physiotherapist and entrepreneur (not related to Mexican actor Eugenio Derbez). The couple has a daughter, and Calderón often speaks about balancing motherhood with a demanding journalism career.

Despite her public profile, she keeps her family life relatively private, emphasizing the importance of stability, education, and cultural pride in raising her child.

Awards and Recognition

Throughout her career, Ilia Calderón has received numerous awards and honors for journalistic excellence and social impact, including:

• Emmy Awards (multiple nominations and wins with Univision)
• Recognition from press associations and human rights organizations
• Inclusion in lists celebrating influential Afro-Latina leaders
• Honors for diversity advocacy and investigative reporting

Her work continues to inspire young journalists, especially women of color aspiring to careers in media.

Net Worth

As of recent estimates, Ilia Calderón’s net worth is believed to range between $1 million and $3 million. Her income primarily comes from:

• Television journalism at Univision
• Book sales
• Speaking engagements
• Media appearances

Her financial success reflects decades of dedication, credibility, and impact in broadcast journalism.

Legacy and Impact

Ilia Calderón’s legacy goes beyond television news. She has reshaped narratives around Afro-Latino identity and opened doors for future generations in media. By challenging stereotypes and confronting injustice head-on, she has proven that journalism can be both fearless and compassionate.

Her story is a testament to perseverance, representation, and the power of using one’s voice to create meaningful change.

FAQs

Who is Ilia Calderón?

Ilia Calderón is a Colombian-born Afro-Latina journalist and Univision news anchor known for investigative reporting and social justice advocacy.

How old is Ilia Calderón?

She was born on September 15, 1972, making her in her early 50s.

What is Ilia Calderón famous for?

She is famous for being the first Afro-Latina co-anchor of Univision’s national evening news and for her fearless interviews.

Is Ilia Calderón married?

Yes, she is married and has a daughter.

What issues does Ilia Calderón focus on?

She focuses on racism, immigration, inequality, and human rights.

Conclusion

Ilia Calderón’s biography is a powerful narrative of courage, excellence, and representation. From her roots in Chocó, Colombia, to her groundbreaking role at Univision, she has consistently used journalism as a force for truth and justice. As a journalist, author, and advocate, Ilia Calderón continues to inspire millions and redefine what leadership in media looks like.