Meet Maria A. de Hollanda | Independent Marketing Communications Consultant

We had the good fortune of connecting with Maria A. de Hollanda and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Maria A., how do you think about risk?
Risk-taking is integral to professional growth, requiring individuals to navigate uncertainty while weighing potential rewards and setbacks. By embracing risk, individuals can propel themselves forward, uncover untapped potential, and foster innovation. Calculated risks contribute to professional growth, resilience, and the development of essential skills like adaptability and resourcefulness.

In my career as an independent marketing communications consultant, I’ve actively embraced risk to drive progress. Founding the first integrated marketing communication firm in Paraguay, expanding into the Spanish market, and establishing myself in Los Angeles exemplify my commitment to challenging the status quo. Despite the inherent instability of venturing into uncharted territories, I recognized the potential for growth and pursued these opportunities with determination. Each endeavor provided invaluable experiences and expanded my capabilities, contributing to my professional evolution. Through these ventures, I’ve cultivated a diverse skill set and gained industry insights that have shaped my approach to marketing communications. By continually seeking new challenges, I’ve honed my adaptability and resilience, enabling me to thrive in dynamic environments. Embracing risk has been pivotal in shaping my career trajectory, fostering innovation, and positioning me for continued growth and success in the ever-evolving field of marketing communications.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.

My career in marketing communications has been a journey filled with challenges, growth, and fulfillment. What sets me apart is my relentless pursuit of innovation and my commitment to pushing boundaries in the ever-evolving landscape of marketing.

From founding the first integrated marketing communication consulting firm in Paraguay to expanding into the Spanish market and establishing myself as an independent consultant in Los Angeles, my path has been anything but easy. Each step presented its own set of challenges, from navigating cultural differences to building credibility in new markets.

However, I’ve always approached obstacles as opportunities for growth. Through perseverance and determination, I’ve overcome challenges by staying true to my vision, embracing change, and continuously honing my skills. The lessons I’ve learned along the way have shaped not only my professional journey but also my personal growth.

I want the world to know that my brand represents integrity, creativity, and a relentless drive for excellence. My story is one of resilience, adaptability, and the unwavering belief in the power of effective communication to drive meaningful impact.

As an independent marketing communications consultant, I am dedicated to delivering innovative solutions that resonate with audiences and drive results. My passion for storytelling and my ability to connect with diverse audiences sets me apart in a crowded marketplace.

In a world where authenticity and connection are paramount, I strive to create experiences that inspire, engage, and leave a lasting impression. My journey is far from over, and I’m excited to continue pushing boundaries, challenging conventions, and making a meaningful difference in the world of marketing communications.

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.
If my best friend were visiting Los Angeles for a week, I would make sure she experiences the city’s diverse culture, iconic landmarks, and vibrant culinary scene. Here’s a suggested itinerary for an unforgettable trip:

Day 1:

• Start the day with breakfast at Sqirl in Silver Lake for their famous ricotta toast and gourmet breakfast bowls.
• Explore Griffith Park and hike up to the Griffith Observatory for stunning views of the city.
• Have lunch at Grand Central Market downtown, sampling a variety of cuisines from tacos to Thai food.
• Spend the afternoon strolling along Venice Beach and enjoying the eclectic atmosphere.
• Dinner at Gjelina in Venice for delicious California cuisine in a trendy setting.

Day 2:

• Enjoy brunch at The Ivy in Beverly Hills for a taste of Hollywood glamour.
• Take a scenic drive along Pacific Coast Highway to Malibu and relax on Zuma Beach.
• Visit the Getty Center to admire its impressive art collection and stunning architecture.
• Head to Santa Monica Pier for sunset views and a ride on the iconic Ferris wheel.
• Dinner at Nobu Malibu for upscale Japanese fusion cuisine overlooking the ocean.

Day 3:

• Start the day with breakfast at Eggslut in downtown LA for indulgent egg sandwiches.
• Explore the Arts District and visit galleries like Hauser & Wirth or The Broad museum.
• Have lunch at Wurstküche in downtown LA for gourmet sausages and Belgian fries.
• Spend the afternoon shopping and people-watching on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills.
• Dinner at Bestia in the Arts District for Italian-inspired cuisine and craft cocktails.

Day 4:

• Brunch at Republique in Mid-City for French-inspired pastries and hearty breakfast dishes.
• Visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Grauman’s Chinese Theatre to see the handprints of stars.
• Take a guided tour of the Warner Bros. Studio to get a behind-the-scenes look at movie and TV production.
• Dinner at Musso & Frank Grill in Hollywood, a historic steakhouse frequented by celebrities.

Day 5:

• Enjoy a leisurely brunch at Bottega Louie in downtown LA for elegant French pastries and brunch classics.
• Explore the historic Olvera Street and Union Station downtown for a taste of LA’s cultural heritage.
• Take a hike in Runyon Canyon Park for panoramic views of the city skyline.
• Dinner at Providence in Mid-Wilshire for an unforgettable fine dining experience featuring seafood.

Day 6:

• Brunch at Blu Jam Café in Hollywood for creative twists on brunch favorites.
• Visit the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) to explore its impressive art collections and iconic Urban Light installation.
• Spend the afternoon shopping and dining at The Grove in West Hollywood.
• Dinner at Spago in Beverly Hills for contemporary Californian cuisine by celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck.

Day 7:

• Wrap up the trip with brunch at Perch in downtown LA, offering French-inspired cuisine with rooftop views of the city.
• Explore the iconic Hollywood Sign and Griffith Park for one last photo opportunity.
• Relax with a scenic drive along Mulholland Drive for breathtaking views of the city.
• Farewell dinner at Yamashiro Hollywood for Japanese-inspired cuisine and stunning views of the LA skyline.

This itinerary offers a mix of iconic landmarks, cultural experiences, and culinary delights that showcase the best of what Los Angeles has to offer.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to dedicate my shoutout to the Fulbright Foreign Student Program and the U.S Embassy in Paraguay for granting me the Fulbright Scholarship in 2002. This invaluable opportunity allowed me to pursue a Master’s in Integrated Marketing Communications at Emerson College in Boston, Massachusetts. The scholarship not only provided me with specialized knowledge in my field but also enhanced my expertise and credibility, making me more competitive in the industry.

Moreover, the Fulbright Scholarship expanded my horizons beyond academics. Being immersed in a diverse cultural environment enriched my understanding of the world and broadened my perspective. Interacting with individuals from various backgrounds exposed me to new ideas and ways of life, fostering personal growth and development. It honed my cross-cultural communication skills, deepened my empathy, and underscored the interconnectedness between different societies. I am deeply grateful for the transformative experiences and opportunities for self-discovery that the Fulbright Scholarship afforded me.

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/de-hollanda