Veronica Cabrera arrived in this wonderful country a decade ago, initially finding work with a cleaning products company before transitioning to office cleaning and later driving taxis. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, she seized the opportunity to delve into online learning, particularly in design and entrepreneurship, as a means to create something meaningful for her family while balancing childcare responsibilities. Drawing from a lifelong passion for crafting and a newfound interest in personalized apparel, Veronica transformed her hobby into a thriving business, gradually expanding her offerings to meet customer demands. Grateful for the guidance from organizations like La Asociación Latinoamérica and Acciona Business Accelerator, Veronica has evolved into the entrepreneur she always aspired to be. Her journey has seen her provide services to various individuals, small businesses, and esteemed institutions, including the Latin American Association, Georgia Piedmont College, and the Mayor’s Office of International & Immigrant Affairs in Atlanta.
Q: What does it mean to you to be an Ecuadorian woman with her own business?
A: For me, being an Ecuadorian woman with my own venture in this environment signifies a significant milestone and affirms that dreams have no geographical boundaries. Starting a business in a country with diverse languages and cultures could have been daunting, but my determination to learn and venture forth has not diminished in the slightest. Each day has become a valuable opportunity to broaden my horizons, facing and overcoming cultural barriers, and continually adapting to new business dynamics.
Q: What has surprised you the most about yourself throughout your personal, and professional, journey?
A: What has surprised me the most throughout my personal and professional journey is my ability to face and overcome challenges consistently. I discovered a resilience within myself that I didn’t know I possessed. In difficult situations, I have found the strength to adapt, learn, and move forward. Additionally, I am amazed by the continuous growth I have experienced, both personally and professionally. Each obstacle has been an opportunity to learn more about myself and develop skills I didn’t know I had. In hindsight, witnessing how I have evolved and overcome obstacles fills me with pride and motivates me to continue challenging myself.
Q: What keeps you inspired/motivated?
A: My constant source of inspiration and motivation comes from my family and the positive impact I can make in the lives of others through my work. The possibility of making a difference, contributing to the well-being of individuals and the community, drives me every day. Additionally, the pursuit of innovation and continuous learning are also engines that keep my inspiration constantly growing.
Q: What is your biggest dream/aspiration in life?
A: My deepest dream and aspiration in life is to build a meaningful legacy that transcends my own existence. I long to leave a positive mark on the world, inspiring others to pursue their dreams and contributing to the well-being of society. My aspiration is to be remembered not only for my personal achievements but for the positive impact I managed to generate in the lives of those around me.
Q: If you could give the younger version of you any piece of advice, what would it be?
A: I would advise my younger self to embrace every experience, even challenges, as learning opportunities. To trust in her ability to overcome obstacles and not fear making mistakes, as each error is a valuable lesson. Patience and perseverance are key; enjoying the process and maintaining passion for what she does will take her far. Additionally, always remain curious and open to new opportunities, as personal growth is a continuous journey of discovery and development.
To stay connected to Veronica Cabrera:
Instagram: @imaginadetails
Website: Imaginadetails.com
