We recently connected with Ana Raquel Aquino and have shared our conversation below.
Ana Raquel, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
Ever since I can remember, I’ve been really into observing human behaviors and understanding why we decide to do what we do – you know, the whole free will thing. I also enjoy diving into the origins of the Universe and life itself. That’s what made it my life’s mission to help others, but in practical ways, actually SEE the change happening. For me, face-to-face, direct interaction with people and seeing my impact is crucial.
When I decided to study Law at 17, it was because I had firsthand experience with poverty while living in Guatemala. I felt that if I had the privilege of education and could see the lack of it in kids my age, I needed to do something for them. I have to admit, I still don’t have my exact purpose figured out. I don’t believe it’s a set and static path. Purpose, to me, is something that evolves.
Right now, my motivation remains the same: to help effectively, efficiently, and strategically. The purpose, though, has changed over time. Today, I can say that my purpose is to stay true to myself, my convictions, and be responsible with my decisions.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I’m Ana Raquel, a Guatemalan lawyer with a master’s in governance and human rights. My niche lies in gender-based governance, public policies, project management, NGO work, marketing, and communication. Over the years, I’ve worked for universities, NGOs, and the Guatemalan government. My journey, marked by winning over 12 scholarships, sparked my passion for entrepreneurship.
My venture called “Cósmica Consulting” centers around social impact by empowering Latin American students to reach their academic and professional potential. Through workshops and conferences in Guatemala, Peru, and Colombia, I’ve built ties with academic communities. Since launching in 2019, starting as an Instagram channel offering scholarship tips, it’s grown organically, now with over 155,000 followers.
Focused on social impact, my business provides quality information about academic programs, scholarships, and grants. Offering personalized consultations and workshops, my goal is to enable Latin American students to study abroad and contribute to their home countries. While sharing common educational challenges, I believe in tailoring advice to each country’s unique context.
My services cater to high school, university, doctoral, and postdoc students, covering 1-on-1 consultations, vocational counseling, group workshops, and lectures. Profits from the past year and a half have covered expenses, enabling investments in a new website and automated systems.
The challenge lies in turning human rights into tangible outcomes, making education accessible. As the business grows, automation has become crucial, yet maintaining personal connections remains vital. Seeking and training talented human resources and developing a solid mid-long-term growth strategy are my current needs and challenges.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Looking back on my journey, three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge stand out as most impactful:
1. Adaptability and Resilience: The ability to adapt to unforeseen challenges and bounce back from setbacks has been crucial. Entrepreneurship is a dynamic journey, and being able to pivot and stay resilient in the face of obstacles has been key.
Advice: Embrace change, view challenges as learning opportunities, and cultivate resilience. Don’t be afraid to reassess and adjust your approach when necessary.
2. Effective Communication and Networking: Building relationships and effectively communicating my vision has played a significant role. Whether it’s presenting at conferences or connecting with clients, the power of clear communication cannot be overstated.
Advice: Hone your communication skills. Practice articulating your ideas concisely and build a strong network. Attend events, engage with communities in your field, and leverage social media to connect with like-minded individuals.
3. Automation and Technology Integration: As the business expanded, automating processes became essential for efficiency. Integrating technology, such as CRM and booking systems, streamlined operations, saving time and increasing overall productivity.
Advice: Embrace technology early on. Explore tools and systems relevant to your industry that can automate repetitive tasks, allowing you to focus on the core aspects of your venture. Stay updated on technological advancements that could enhance your business.
For those early in their journey, my advice is to approach challenges with an open mind, prioritize effective communication and relationship-building, and leverage technology to streamline operations. Continuous learning is key, so stay curious and be proactive in seeking knowledge and mentorship from experienced individuals in your field. Remember, every setback is an opportunity to learn and grow.
What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?
When I find myself overwhelmed, I prioritize self-care to regain balance and clarity. I believe in the power of mindfulness, so I often turn to meditation to center my thoughts and find inner calm. Taking a break from the daily routine is essential for me, whether it’s through a brisk walk, a change of scenery, or simply disconnecting for a while.
Exercise is a powerful outlet, helping me release stress and boost my mood. Dancing and singing are personal favorites – they not only bring joy but also serve as a form of self-expression. Treating myself to something I enjoy, like a favorite snack, becomes a small but significant way to indulge and recharge.
Above all, I reconnect with my purpose and path. Reflecting on my journey, remembering why I started, and visualizing my goals helps put challenges into perspective. It’s a reminder that obstacles are part of the growth process.
My advice for others facing overwhelm is to incorporate activities that bring joy and relaxation. Whether it’s a hobby, a short escape, or simply indulging in a treat, these moments of self-care can make a substantial difference. Additionally, staying connected with your purpose, acknowledging your achievements, and taking one step at a time can help navigate through overwhelming times with resilience and clarity.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.anacosmica.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ana.cosmica/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ana-raquel-aquino/
