We had the good fortune of connecting with Magybet Mendez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Magybet, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking

Risk for me is about pushing personal boundaries and challenging the status quo. I’d also say that my approach to risk has been to take action. As a result, I’d learn, win or try again, that’s been the consistent message to myself. I’ve become a daily risk-taker in business and in life, not just because of the choices I’ve made but because of where I stand in the country I love. I’m a Mexican businesswoman under Deferred Action Status and as a result, I’ve become a person who has become unafraid of what’s next in order to achieve things I’ve always dreamt of. The life I’ve experienced by far has prepared me to be ready for challenges, take risks, and stand up for others even if it means risking it all.

Before beginning my journey as a founder and CEO of immigo, a non-profit, I felt lost because of how blurred the road ahead seemed. I was in limbo because of my undocumented status in the U.S. for several years. Resources for undocumented people especially undocumented entrepreneurs were non-existent. I couldn’t find the answers online even through endless research. When things took a turn through a work permit that gave me an equal playing field, I did everything possible to learn and grow from every professional experience encountered. I took a risk and left stable employment to pursue a journey of my own because I felt that I was not meant to be in one role. Being my own boss gives me the opportunity to take on different roles, get creative, and help others. I have to admit that if it wasn’t for the risks I’ve taken, I wouldn’t be the person I’ve become. I would not be running an organization but I knew if I wanted to create an impact, I had to step out of my comfort zone. I want immigo to become the center of everything I wish existed. With all this being said, I believe life’s most rewarding experiences come as a result of taking risks no matter the result.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I love to work so you’d find me working most of the time. My schedule revolves around providing immigration legal service, building a business, management tasks, and creating new projects. All while trying to learn something new that would help me professionally. There’s still a bigger vision of what I want to accomplish so I’m very busy executing ideas and strengthening immigo to become a community solution. I want the community to see the fruits of the seed I’ve planted.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love to take friends to my neighboring coffee shop called Caravana which is Latina-owned and operated. They’re based in North Hollywood, CA, and have the best Horchata Latte. They’re right next door to our office so it’s the perfect spot when someone drops by for a visit.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I am thankful for the community that surrounds me. I dedicate this shout-out to all the hardworking immigrants that fuel my fire to keep doing the work I do. I especially want to shout out every person I’ve had the pleasure of meeting in my career who has shared their untold stories with me. I am inspired and motivated by your daily risks and efforts.

Website: www.immigola.org

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/immigola/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/immigola

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/immigo-north-hollywood?uid=QExWs2_jsoY1Fg10-LMHUA&utm_campaign=www_business_share_popup&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=(direct)

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGdnzNlJ-JEci4QNxX_A4uw

Other: https://linktr.ee/Immigolosangeles

Image Credits
Photograph Credit: Alex Vasquez

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.