We had the good fortune of connecting with Patricia Flores Acosta and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Patricia, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
“I am a hardworking woman who has always dreamed of changing the negative thoughts surrounding women in my culture. In my native country, women were primarily seen as meant for having children and staying at home. However, when I arrived in this country more than 20 years ago, I encountered a different world full of opportunities that only those who strive and fight for them can attain. Women have grown significantly intellectually, personally, and spiritually. We have realized our strength. I have experience leading people, I am very dedicated to my work, and I always strive to give my best.

Now, with a family and especially with a daughter whom I want to show the strength that God has given us to live and shape the life we want to live, the dreams we want to achieve, not what our surroundings dictate.”

“This is what drove me to start my own company; everything I’ve learned in these 20 years has to yield significant results.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
“I have been working in cleaning for almost 10 years. I started by cleaning bathrooms, vacuuming, and truthfully, it wasn’t easy because the work is tough and not many people want to do it. But gradually, I paved my way and started to be promoted. Now, I supervise 4 office buildings. I had to learn how to send emails, communicate with tenants and clients, create budgets, and honestly, it hasn’t been easy. However, in this process, I realized that if I could do it for someone else’s company, I could do it for my own. So, I began searching, studying more, taking various business, English, and computer courses.

My mentors from the Latin American Association and all the resources they offer have been incredibly helpful. But it’s not easy because studying, working, being a mother, a wife, and starting your own business is definitely challenging and comes with many hurdles. Sometimes, I cry when I have to say ‘no’ to my family because I have to study, but I know they understand.”

“In all my work life, I have always led teams. I believe it’s a virtue I possess. I enjoy working and inspiring people to work with passion, making your job a source of joy both for the client and for yourself.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
“In Atlanta, we have a beautiful landscape. I would take them for a walk at Avalon Mall, where we can stroll, have dinner, watch a movie, and even have some drinks. The scenery and community there are very pleasant. Of course, we would visit the aquarium because it’s beautiful and something I really enjoy. The mountains with all their nature and the cozy warmth of an outdoor bonfire with wine and good company is all you need.”

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

“Of course, everything I am, I owe it to God, who loved me before I was born, and who has placed people in my life who have helped me achieve my goals. My husband, Daniel Alvarez, has always supported me along with my children. The Latin American Association in Atlanta has been the nurturing ground where I’ve been able to learn everything I need to start my own business. This association has been a turning point in my life as an entrepreneur.”

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Image Credits
Latin American Association, Daniel Alvarez and my daughter Nadia Alvarez.

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