as a creative agency that offers design services, corporate branding services, photography, video production, promotion, and business consulting. Starting my business has been a dream come true, and I couldn’ t have done it without the support I received from Carlos Rosario School. In addition, I was Student Designer for In My Own Words Year 2018 and advocated for opening a section within this publication to promote our student journeys within Carlos Rosario School Small Business Program.
While I was studying, I worked part-time in various jobs, including restaurants, retail stores, and eventually a bank. Each of these experiences allowed me to gradually build my career in the U. S. and grow professionally. In my limited free time, I volunteered at the school and other local nonprofits, teaching marketing to small business owners and sharing what I had learned.
However, when my business started to grow, the pandemic hit, and I lost many contracts. But just when I thought things couldn’ t get worse, a new opportunity arose. I began working part-time at the Latino Economic Development Center( LEDC) in 2021, a nonprofit that supports small businesses in the D. C. area by providing technical assistance and access to microloans. This experience was lifechanging, and in August 2022, I was selected for a position as an Instructor in the Small Business Program at Carlos Rosario School. Returning to the school that helped me so much was a true honor.
In 2023, I was selected as the first Venezuelan woman to serve as a business advisor for the Mayor’ s Latino Affairs Commission under Mayor Muriel Bowser’ s administration( Ad honorem). In this role, I focus on providing tools and guidance to promote sustainable economic development of the Latino community in Washington, D. C.
When I reflect on my journey, I know that my success comes from a deep belief in myself, a lot of prayer, and a love for what I do. The road hasn’ t been easy and like many others, I’ ve faced my share of challenges. But those difficult moments have led to growth, strength, and gratitude. I encourage anyone reading this to believe in yourself, seek help when needed, take action, and always make prayer a part of your life.
2023 Small Business Program Graduation( Pictured from Left to Right) Raul Medrano, Sonia Gutierrez, Maria Teresa Llanos, Aracelly Watts
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