Meet Rozalyn Corona | Chingona Community OG

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

Hi Rozalyn, do you disagree with some advice that is more or less universally accepted?
One piece of conventional advice that I disagree with is the notion that our youth should prioritize attending a four-year university right out of high school. As a society, we’ve been taught that this is the most important goal, but that might not be the best fit for everyone. Depending on what a young person wants to pursue, starting gradually at a junior college can be a smart and financially sound choice. With minimal costs, they can explore their options, build a strong academic foundation, and even transfer to a four-year university later if that aligns with their goals.
In addition, trade schools can offer incredible opportunities. Many trades pay more than what a traditional college degree might offer, and they equip students with practical, in-demand skills that lead to stable, well-paying careers.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I’d like to think that what sets me apart from others, and something that I’m most proud of, is my resiliency. Being resilient is a part of my DNA. I was a young mother at 18years old, told I would never graduate from college because of it, but no matter what, I persevered. Not only have I obtained my degree, but I also have a daughter who’s obtained hers, another daughter starting college next week, and a son who’s living on his own. Quite frankly, my resiliency has led to these “mom wins.” I also have a nine-year-old, whom I adore, and who is the glue that keeps our family of six connected.

How I got to where I am today, business-wise, is kind of crazy. I am the founder of a 501(c)(3), and manage my own sales consulting business. On top of all this, I also have a day sales job selling produce, which keeps me connected to a different aspect of business and community. Neither of these tasks to start the 501(c)(3) and S Corp was easy. I was misguided, over-guided, and eventually guided by the right mentors to get to where I am today. The way I overcame my challenges was truly through mentorship, support whether that be financial or mental and a ton of cheerleaders in my corner. They always wanted to work toward similar goals, and that support has been key.

What I want the world to know about our story is that it’s one of women empowerment and unity. We live in a world where society teaches us that women are good for bearing children, cooking, maybe just sitting and looking pretty, not capable of certain jobs, and that we should strive to look a certain way. It’s unfortunate that we still face disparities in pay, and it’s something I never realized as a 20-year-old in corporate America, probably being paid a third of what my male peers were making. I also wish that, as a society, we were taught better financial management skills and the importance of buying a home and having assets. Uniting as an inclusive female unit can help with these barriers.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were coming to visit the area, I’d take them to the beautiful Santa Ynez Valley. The itinerary would include an overnight stay with wine tasting, hiking, live music, and dinner. Some of the most fun and interesting spots to check out would be Foxen Winery, Buttonwood Winery, Fess Parker, Sunstone Winery, a visit to our good friend Steve’s house in Solvang, and a scenic drive through the back roads of Foxen Canyon Road.
The next morning, we’d have breakfast at Plenty on Bell, visit with our favorite server, Nicole, and have a cup of coffee, mimosa or screwdriver to help cure the hangover.

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 want to dedicate my shoutout to my home, which includes my husband, Alex, and my four kids: Ray, Raegan, Samantha, and Roman. I have learned so much from them and with them, and my ultimate goal in life is to ensure that each of them is happy, a good person, and successful in whatever THEY this success is—whether that’s with a trade, a degree, or more importantly, finding their own homes and paths in life. I hope their journeys include their significant others, children, or puppies.

I also want to recognize three very special individual(s): my best friends, Deanna, Melanie, and Jennifer. They have never left my side, through all the good, bad, and everything in between. The three of them have been a constant in my life, and I am forever grateful for their love and support.

Website: https://www.chingonacommunity.com

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Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rozalynlucero/

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Image Credits
@mamabearphotos
@mariosevilla