We had the good fortune of connecting with Lluvia Contreras Olivera and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lluvia, how do you define success?
Success, to me, is not measured by wealth or academic achievements but by the depth of one’s emotional intelligence. A truly successful person is someone who has walked through darkness, emerged with resilience, and carries a smile illuminated by hard-earned work that with time, turns into wisdom. It is someone humble enough to treat every soul with equal respect, regardless of status, and confident enough to stand firmly in their own identity. Success is marked by the ability to navigate life’s complexities with grace, extending love, kindness, and respect to everyone, in every situation.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My journey into business—and into the person I am today—has been anything but ordinary. I was brought to this country illegally as a child, not once but twice, the first time, put in a bag of laundry and stuffed in the trunk of a station wagon and the second, running across the border in the middle of the night. I grew up in the U.S., but without proper documentation, I couldn’t get an ID, a driver’s license, or even a job. Watching my friends pursue their dreams while I lived in the shadows was devastating. I felt trapped, and that sense of hopelessness because no one knew I was undocumented led me into alcoholism and addiction.

At my lowest point, I was homeless, living out of my car, collecting cans just to afford gas so I could avoid parking tickets. In 2010, I married the man I had been dating, which finally allowed me to gain legal work authorization. But by then, I was still in the grip of my addiction, and holding a steady job was nearly impossible.

In 2012, I became pregnant with my first child, and while I wanted to change for them, the drinking continued. After getting into trouble with the law, I hit rock bottom and entered rehab in 2016. That’s when everything changed. I got sober, committed to healing, and found the strength to rebuild my life.

I started small, applying for a runner position at a real estate office. Instead, I was hired as a receptionist, and within months, I worked my way up in the company. I realized I loved real estate and decided to get licensed as an agent. Now, five years later, I’m thriving in this industry, connecting with people, and helping them find not just homes but opportunities to change their lives, much like I changed mine.

What sets me apart is my resilience and my belief that transformation is always possible. In 2020, I experienced a spiritual awakening that deepened my commitment to personal growth. I became certified in crystal Reiki and sound therapy, using these modalities to help others balance their energy and find peace within themselves. My mantra is simple: your life changes the moment your mind changes.

I’m incredibly proud of how far I’ve come—9 years sober, thriving in an amazing career, and using my story to inspire others. I’ve learned that challenges, no matter how overwhelming, can become the foundation for your greatest successes. And I hope my journey reminds others that no matter how dark things may seem, there is always a way forward!

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?
An ideal weekend in LA with me would be all about great food, soulful experiences, and unforgettable vibes. I’d pick them up at LAX on Friday morning and kick things off with a stop at The Kettle in Manhattan Beach for their incredible spinach artichoke dip—a must-try. After dropping bags and freshening up, we’d head to DTLA for a visit to the iconic Clifton’s Cafeteria to soak in the eclectic ambiance and grab some bites. From there, it’s straight to La Cita for Reggae Fridays because no Friday night in DTLA is complete without it!

Saturday would start with a hike to the Wisdom Tree, where we’d take a moment to do breath work, reflect, and set intentions for the weekend. Afterward, we’d indulge in some much-needed R&R at Wi Spa in K town complete with massages, a sauna, and total relaxation. For lunch, we’d hit *Uovo* for the best pasta in the city—seriously, life-changing. As the day winds down, we’d head to Santa Monica with some friends for a sunset yoga and meditation session, followed by dancing wherever the night takes us.

Sunday morning, we’d keep the energy flowing with breakfast at *Café 87* in Topanga Canyon before spending a peaceful afternoon strolling through the breathtaking *Huntington Library* gardens. To end on a high note, I’d bring out my crystals and singing bowls for a little healing session under the trees. Before wrapping up, we’d make a stop at Mama Shelter in Hollywood where we would indulge in some rooftop vibes and tunes. We would then head over to Inglewood to experience the visual magic of Cosm and perhaps find a local jazz band to catch. Finally, I’d drop them off at LAX with a big hug and a smile, sending them home with a heart full of love and the best memories LA can give you.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to give a special shout-out to my best friend, Monique Napoles, who owns Little Day Care On Prarie in Hawthorne. She has touched the lives of so many children and families by providing them with care and support. Monique has always been incredibly level-headed, and she’s been my rock and voice of reason throughout most of my adult life. There are countless moments where her advice and steady presence helped me through situations I didn’t think I could face alone. I truly don’t know where I’d be without her!

I also want to shine a light on the incredible Anna Krylova, a beautiful and humble soul I had the privilege of meeting while helping her find a home. She had just moved to California from New York, breaking into the DJ and modeling industries. In just a few short years, she has transformed her passions into thriving careers. Watching her rise has been nothing short of inspiring, and I’m so proud to call her my friend.

Website: https://luxurycollectiveawarerealty.my.canva.site/info

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aware.realty?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lluvia-contreras-olivera-3400068b

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.