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

Hi Lulu, maybe we can start at the very start – the idea – how did you come up with the idea for your business?
In 2019, I was in a toxic work environment with my boss. I became severely depressed and contemplated suicide. I felt worthless and afraid. It was a horrible time in my life and the worst part was no one understood or made me feel safe enough to open up without being judged or labeled as “crazy”.

A year later, I was laid off in the midst of the pandemic. I was still depressed and traumatized. Most importantly, I couldn’t bring myself to secure a regular job. I knew I wanted to start a business to make a little income and work at my own pace. Most importantly, I wanted to create a safe space where I could share my experiences with mental health and build a community of empowered women. I never wanted anyone to feel the way my boss made me feel.

Cabronas4theWorld was born in 2020. I chose the name Cabrona, because it often used in a derogatory way against women but used as a compliment towards men. I am reclaiming this word for us and the women after us. We are often labeled as bitches for speaking our minds, setting boundaries and breaking free of Machismo culture.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
We sell everything from everyday hoops (staples in our wardrobe) to the Lizzie McGuire inspired merch!

Our best-sellers are statement pieces, such as our Cabrona necklace, Las Cabronas tote bag and our Womxn don’t owe you shit hoodie.

We are Oaxacan American and it was very important for that to be represented in everything we do. I would say we are most proud of our hoodie! It represents everything we stand for, you’ll see the image of a WOC with her flower crown made out of marigolds. The orange marigold was used by our Oaxacan Ancestors to celebrate life. This woman is a symbol of love, strength but also vulnerability. She is not afraid to be more, to ask for more even when the world is asking her to tone it down.

We’ve learned starting a business can be frustrating but also very rewarding. Please don’t be discouraged by what you see online. You may see people winning but we learned not many are showing their losses.

Please promise me you’ll continue to show up for yourself AND give yourself compassion in the process.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Ooooh, exciting! I personally don’t eat meat but my bestie does so I’d take her to a place we can both enjoy!
Now, we’re not much of nature morning hike people but we are foodies and night people!

Our favorite place to grab lunch/dinner, anything really… is Tirsa’s Restaurant in Downtown LA. It’s a WOC owned restaurant and let me tell you the food is great, the portions are chef’s kiss and the owner is the most beautiful, energetic soul you will ever meet!
Did I mention they have Chile Relleno friday? On Fridays, you can choose to have your chile in a burrito, torta or get this a keto burrito? If you’re ever in the area support small business and let them know Las Cabronas sent you!

Dessert anyone? We’re supporting our street vendors! We’ll head to East LA to get the best crepes by Mr. Crepe Aquino. They’re a Oaxacan owned family business. You’ll find them in front of Vallarta market!

Now at night time, for a good time and cheap/strong drinks! Hit up La Cita in DTLA, they play the best OG reggaeton, rock en Español and those songs your mom used to play on Saturdays when she woke you up to clean la casa.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Honestly, I would love to thank our online Cabrona community. They are patient, they are kind and even if they’re struggling too they continue to hold space for me. I will disappear at times because I am fighting with my mind and they check up on me. I created this community to help them but they ended up helping me more than they will ever know. They are the reason I am still here and fighting for myself. Thank you Cabronas, I am grateful for every single one of you.

Website: www.cabronas4theworld.com

Instagram: @cabronas4theworld

Twitter: @medicencabrona_

Facebook: Cabronas4theWorld

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