Education has been a vital tool throughout my life. I’ve enrolled in various business courses from SBA, Hispanic Chamber of Orange County, LATINA Style Business Series, NLBWA-OC, CAHCC, SCORE, IWE, USHCC etc. In order to survive as an entrepreneur, I hand to enhance my skills.

After working in the Engineering and Technology field for over nine years, I was laid off from an awesome job. Two subsequent employment opportunities would have left only an hour each day with my young children. My decision to stay at home with my family ended up being a blessing.
Entrepreneurship was selected because it allowed me to have my business and raise my children at the same time. Through this experience, my children are exposed to the business. When I introduce them to friends, I introduce my little boy as my Research Development v.p. and my little girl as my marketing director. They both attended various ceremonies where I have received awards, now I have attended their awards as well. My little boy is now a 7-year-old author!

Utilizing technology opened many marketing doors for my business. Through educational webinars and teleconferences, I do not need to leave home. This has allowed me to creatively position my business. Five years later, HP profiled my business on a national level and my blogging opened doors with large corporations such as McDonalds, Disney, HP, Longs and various national publications.

There were many folks that assisted me through my journey. I felt compelled in helping others so I joined the Institute for Women Entrepreneurs and now offer no cost consulting for a few hours a week. My experience as a consultant has prompted me to write a book about entrepreneurship.
The Anna Maria Arias Business fund has influenced my business to dream bigger. Since starting my business, I always participated in the LATINA Style Business Series. Being exposed to so many other talented and successful Latina entrepreneurs, I was encouraged and motivated to go for it! I’ve learned about business certifications in order to grow my business and expand on my business plan strategy.

I am truly excited and count my blessings during so many dark times. The entrepreneurship experience is immensely challenging but also rewarding. I was thrilled and honored to participate in the 2009 Business Training program at the Tuck School of Business, Dartmouth College. I thank all the major corporations that have funded this program.

Being an entrepreneur requires VISION, COURAGE, and STAMINA. A vision derives from a dream, without courage one will never take a chance and stamina allows you to take steps each day towards turning your vision into reality. Faith, patience and a loving husband and family are also key!

By Addy Perez-Mau