Laura Varela Fallas - My Journey as a Latina Entrepreneur in International Business

Breaking into the world of international business as a Latina entrepreneur has been one of the most challenging and rewarding journeys of my life. Growing up in Costa Rica, I was instilled with values of resilience, hard work, and a deep connection to my cultural heritage. These values became my compass as I navigated the complexities of building a career in a competitive, global landscape.

In this blog, I’ll share the story of my entrepreneurial journey, the barriers I faced, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. My hope is to inspire others—particularly women and Latinas—to embrace their unique strengths and step boldly into the world of business, no matter the challenges. After all, breaking barriers isn’t just about personal success; it’s about paving the way for others to follow.

Early Aspirations and the Start of My Journey

Growing up in Costa Rica, I was surrounded by the rich stories of entrepreneurs in my community who built their livelihoods from the ground up. Watching them hustle and persevere in the face of adversity inspired me from an early age. I remember sitting at the kitchen table with my family, dreaming about what it would be like to run my own business one day—not just locally, but on an international scale.

That dream became more tangible during my university years when I pursued a degree in Business Administration. It wasn’t just about learning the technical aspects of business; it was about discovering how to combine my passion for leadership with a desire to make an impact. My coursework in international business management opened my eyes to the possibilities that awaited beyond borders, and I was determined to carve out a path that reflected my ambitions.

However, being a Latina aspiring to enter the global business arena wasn’t without its challenges. In many professional spaces, I noticed a lack of representation. My heritage, which I held so close to my heart, was often underestimated or misunderstood. Instead of discouraging me, this fueled my determination to embrace my identity even more. I realized that my cultural background wasn’t a hurdle—it was my unique strength.

The first big step in my journey came with my move to the United States. It was a leap of faith, filled with both excitement and uncertainty. I was ready to apply my knowledge and start building something meaningful, but I quickly learned that the road to entrepreneurship wasn’t straightforward. What carried me through was the belief that every small step—whether a success or a lesson—was moving me closer to my vision.

The Challenges of Breaking Into International Business

Breaking into international business was a test of resilience and ingenuity. As a Latina entrepreneur, I quickly encountered biases and stereotypes that I hadn’t fully anticipated. In many rooms, I was either underestimated or expected to prove my worth far more than my peers. There were moments when my voice felt unheard, and I had to work twice as hard to ensure my ideas gained the recognition they deserved.

One of the biggest hurdles I faced was accessing funding. Starting a business, especially in a new country, often comes with substantial financial demands. Yet, the path to securing investors or loans was riddled with obstacles. Statistics consistently show that minority women face significant disadvantages when it comes to funding—and I felt those statistics firsthand. This challenge forced me to think creatively, seeking out alternative ways to bootstrap my business and make the most of limited resources.

Beyond financial hurdles, navigating the logistics of operating in a global market presented unique challenges. Understanding international trade regulations, adapting to cultural nuances in negotiations, and building a network across borders were all skills I had to develop along the way. There were moments when I felt overwhelmed by the complexity of these demands, but I reminded myself that every great entrepreneur faces obstacles—it’s how we handle them that defines our journey.

The turning point came when I realized I didn’t have to face these challenges alone. Building a strong support network of mentors, peers, and collaborators became a game-changer. I sought out Latina business leaders who had walked this road before me, and their guidance was invaluable. They didn’t just offer advice—they reminded me that I belonged in these spaces and that my contributions mattered.

Despite the roadblocks, these experiences taught me invaluable lessons about resilience and resourcefulness. Every challenge became an opportunity to grow, and each success felt even more meaningful because of the barriers I had overcome.

Lessons Learned Along the Way

The journey of breaking into international business as a Latina entrepreneur has been filled with lessons—some learned through trial and error, others through the wisdom shared by mentors and peers. Each step taught me something invaluable, not just about business, but about myself.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the power of creativity in overcoming limitations. When traditional paths weren’t accessible—such as securing startup funding or gaining immediate entry into certain markets—I found alternative ways to achieve my goals. Whether it was leveraging technology to reach a wider audience or forming partnerships with like-minded businesses, thinking outside the box became a cornerstone of my strategy.

Another critical takeaway was the importance of building a robust support network. Success isn’t a solo endeavor. Surrounding myself with mentors, collaborators, and advocates who believed in my vision made all the difference. They not only provided insights and encouragement but also opened doors to opportunities I might never have found on my own. These relationships reminded me that networking is as much about giving as it is about receiving; being part of a supportive community is a two-way street.

Adaptability also emerged as a key to thriving in a global market. Every country and culture has its own unique way of conducting business. By being open to learning and willing to adjust my approach, I was able to navigate these differences effectively. This adaptability extended beyond business strategies—it also applied to my mindset. Learning to see setbacks as temporary and failures as stepping stones helped me stay motivated and focused on the bigger picture.

Perhaps the most personal lesson of all was the value of authenticity. Early on, I felt pressure to conform to the norms of the predominantly male and non-Latin business environments I found myself in. But over time, I realized that staying true to my identity and values made me a stronger leader. Authenticity not only helped me build genuine connections but also set me apart in a crowded industry.

These lessons weren’t always easy to learn, but they’ve become the foundation of who I am as an entrepreneur. They remind me that success is about more than reaching goals—it’s about the journey, the growth, and the impact you make along the way.

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

If there’s one thing I’ve learned on my journey, it’s that no dream is too big if you approach it with the right mindset and strategies. For those aspiring to carve out their path in entrepreneurship, especially women and Latinas looking to break into international business, here’s my advice:

1. Embrace Your IdentityYour background and heritage are not obstacles—they’re your unique strengths. Whether it’s your bilingual skills, cultural adaptability, or diverse perspective, these traits set you apart in the business world. Lean into them and let them shape your approach to leadership and innovation.

2. Build a Resilient Support NetworkSuccess is rarely achieved alone. Surround yourself with people who inspire and challenge you—mentors, peers, and collaborators who align with your vision. Don’t hesitate to seek advice or learn from others’ experiences. Remember, asking for help isn’t a weakness; it’s a sign of wisdom.

3. Be Prepared for Challenges and Learn from ThemEvery entrepreneur faces setbacks, but it’s how you respond that matters. Instead of viewing obstacles as insurmountable, treat them as opportunities to grow and innovate. Each challenge you overcome adds another layer to your expertise and confidence.

4. Stay Authentic and True to Your ValuesThe pressure to conform can be overwhelming, especially in environments where you’re in the minority. However, authenticity is your superpower. Stay true to your values, communicate openly, and lead with integrity. People are drawn to authenticity, and it will help you build trust and lasting relationships.

5. Don’t Let Fear Hold You BackTaking the leap into entrepreneurship can be intimidating, but fear is often a sign that you’re stepping outside your comfort zone—and that’s where growth happens. Believe in yourself and your vision, even when the path forward feels uncertain. Confidence is contagious, and it will inspire others to believe in you too.

6. Advocate for Diversity and InclusionAs you climb the ladder, don’t forget to create opportunities for others. Advocate for diversity in your industry, mentor aspiring entrepreneurs, and use your platform to challenge the status quo. When you uplift others, you amplify the impact of your success.

Breaking into international business isn’t easy, but it’s incredibly rewarding. By embracing your uniqueness, learning from challenges, and staying connected to your values, you’ll not only achieve your goals but also inspire others to pursue theirs.

Conclusion

Reflecting on my journey as a Latina entrepreneur in international business, I’m filled with gratitude for the challenges I’ve faced and the triumphs I’ve celebrated. Every step of the way has been a testament to the power of resilience, authenticity, and the courage to break barriers. While the road hasn’t been easy, it’s been deeply rewarding, not just for the successes I’ve achieved but for the impact I’ve been able to make in inspiring others to follow their dreams.

One quote that has always resonated with me is from the late Ruth Bader Ginsburg:

“Fight for the things that you care about, but do it in a way that will lead others to join you.”

This wisdom has guided me in my approach to leadership, reminding me that true success lies in creating opportunities for others to rise alongside you.

As I look to the future, I’m excited about the continued possibilities of using my platform to champion diversity and empower others—particularly women and underrepresented groups—to step into their power and pursue their passions fearlessly. My journey isn’t just about my own accomplishments; it’s about opening doors for others and showing that success is possible, no matter where you start or how many barriers stand in your way.

To anyone reading this who dreams of starting their own journey, my message is simple: believe in yourself and never let anyone define your limits. Breaking barriers starts with taking that first step, and I’m here to remind you that you’re not alone.

So, what’s the next barrier you’re ready to break? Let’s tackle it together.