By Lily Allen-Dueñas, Hola Iowa
Nailea Valdivia, originally from Guadalajara, Mexico, made the bold move to Des Moines just over two years ago. She opened her business, May Eleven, in the vibrant East Village near downtown. May Eleven is a women’s clothing boutique that curates modern and timeless everyday apparel. Valdivia shares, “I always knew I wanted to do something of my own. Clothing and styling has been something I have loved my entire life.”
For Valdivia, the decision to set up shop in the East Village was more than just a smart business move, “I chose East Village to bring some diversity to the area,” she says. Reflecting on her journey, Valdivia shares that self-doubt was a significant challenge initially, coupled with the financial constraints common to many startups and entrepreneurs. Her resilience pushed her past these hurdles— “ I have learned to just believe in myself.”
“Why not me and why not now?!” She remembers thinking. Her story resonates with many aspiring entrepreneurs, especially Latinas. She advises those dreaming of starting their own businesses to use free resources like Google and YouTube to learn how to do whatever they want to do, and most importantly, believe in themselves.
Now, Valdivia has a thriving Instagram following and enjoys being a part of the East Village community. “Every day is different, and I love meeting new people and building relationships,” she says, highlighting the joys of entrepreneurship beyond the bottom line.
JEFAS Magazine is a collaboration of writers, photographers, social media managers, editors, translators, and designers from across Illinois, Iowa and the Midwest – all of whom are Latinx. It is the first magazine created by the Latinx community, for the Latinx community that focuses on how they are boosting the economy, giving back, and filling the gap between what is needed and what is available in the state.
To see the locations where you can find the magazine visit @JEFASMagazine on Instagram and TikTok
You can find the digital magazine here:
https://holaamericanews.com/jefas-latinas-in-business-magazine-may-2024/
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