Fiorella Lopez Lima Helps Latinas Own Their Talents and Elevate Their Careers

Hi, Fiorella! Please share a brief introduction about yourself and your business:

Hi, I'm Fiorella. I was born and raised in Lima, Peru, and moved to the United States at age 15. Helping others is in my DNA. This innate desire led me to a career in human resources, where I’ve spent over a decade caring for people at work. My journey has been shaped by my experience as an immigrant. I know the struggles Latinas face in the workplace because I’ve been there. I’ve felt the sting of discrimination, the weight of imposter syndrome, and the pressure of being the only Latina in the room. But I also know the power of perseverance, self-advocacy, and embracing your true self. This is why I created my business, Latinas Ahead, to inspire and uplift Latinas to own their talents and elevate their careers. Our vision is a world where Latinas lead without limits. Through our career coaching services, we guide Latinas to embrace their identity, recognize their worth, navigate cultural challenges, and feel in control of their careers. Our approach is culturally sensitive and tailored to the unique experiences of Latinas in the workplace.

What was your background prior to starting your own business?

Human Resources (I am still working in HR as a Senior Manager, People & Culture).

Did you always know you wanted to be an entrepreneur?

Yes, I was making and selling soap and candles at age 12!

Take us back to when you first launched your business; what was your marketing strategy to get the word out and did it go as planned?

I just launched my business 3 weeks ago. My marketing strategy started out through word of mouth, sending targeted emails to my network and posting on Instagram. I also joined a Latina community called Amigas Latinas which turned out to be my most effective marketing channel for getting the word out. I also offered 7 free coaching sessions as part of my launch and booked my first 7 calls in just 48 hours! Who doesn't love free stuff? Through this promotion, I was able to book my first client within 2 weeks of launching my business.

What is the biggest challenge you have encountered along the way so far and what have you learned from it?

So many! I think doing this all by myself is a challenge in itself. I'm still working my full-time job while balancing the launch of my new business. It has been a lot of work and late nights but it has also been exciting and I'm learning so much. I am watching webinars, networking, and researching online resources constantly. Managing my time and energy has been my biggest challenge. I wish I had more time to dedicate to attracting clients and focusing on marketing efforts.

What accomplishment are the most proud of to date in your business?

Booking my first client within 2 weeks of launching my business!

Do you have any recent wins from the last year that you'd like to celebrate with our community?

My business is still very new. I am proud of how I am showing up to Latinas in every coaching and consultation call. I've received feedback that I'm very genuine and supportive which is a huge compliment because this is how I envision myself connecting with people.

What's next for your business? What can we expect to see over the next few years?

Growing my business from 1:1 coaching to group coaching programs and e-Learning platforms. I would also like to grow my community and excited to launch my podcast, Not Your Spicy Latina, this fall and see where that takes me!

What is your top productivity tip? 

My friend introduced me to the concept of the book Make Time and it has been a game changer. Basically, you choose ONE daily highlight to focus on, then allocate your time (ideally in the morning) to tackle it. You honor the time you allocated to your highlight and protect it, no matter what. Highlights are not urgent items but rather, your most important task of the day. I've also recently started using Notion and can already feel much more productive! Still getting the hang of how to use databases as my layout but it has incredibly features and templates to organize every aspect of my business.

On the flip side, how do you avoid burnout?

Exercising, morning hikes with my puppy Cleo, self-care Sundays, making time for my family/friends and meeting new people, unwinding an hour before bed (ideally with a good documentary), and a good glass of wine in the evenings.

What is your approach to work-life balance / integration?

I think of my life as a wheel with many important categories such as relationships, wellness, fun, career, and social impact. I like to do a quick assessment every few weeks or once a month on how I am spending my time. Am I making time for items and people on all those different categories? If yes, then I can feel content with myself.

What is one thing you wish you had known when you started your Entreprenista journey?

How supportive people would be!

What's the one app on your phone you absolutely cannot live without and why?

Notes app and Notion!

What is your favorite business tool or solution and why?

I am very much enjoying Calendly to book calls. I love that it integrates with all my personal, work, and business calendars. I also appreciate Wave as a bookeeping system for solopreneurs since it's free and user friendly.

What advice do you have for aspiring Entreprenistas?

At the end of this road we will all say... it was worth it.

Learn more about the Entreprenista League and join today!