We recently connected with Delvira Rodrigues and have shared our conversation below.
Delvira , we’re thrilled to have you sharing your thoughts and lessons with our community. So, for folks who are at a stage in their life or career where they are trying to be more resilient, can you share where you get your resilience from?
My resilience comes from the journey that brought me here. As an immigrant in the U.S., every step was a challenge, from the language to the culture. But those early struggles taught me to keep going, to never give up. When I started my small food business, it was no different. Times got tough, but remembering where I came from, the miles I’ve traveled, that’s what fuels my resilience. It’s the belief that every hurdle is just a step closer to success and a better life.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Hey there! So, what I do is run a small business that specializes in crafting these amazing cheese breads. You know, those little gluten-free bites of goodness that have become a local favorite around the Bay Area. What makes it really special is the love and care we put into each batch, ensuring that every bite is a burst of flavor.
But here’s the exciting part: we’re in the process of giving our brand and packaging a whole new look and feel. It’s like a fresh start, a makeover to better connect with our awesome customers. We believe in constant improvement, not just in the taste of our cheese bread but also in how we present it. So, keep an eye out for our revamped brand – we’re cooking up something special!
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, three qualities, skills, and areas of knowledge have been instrumental in my journey. Firstly, persistence has been my cornerstone as a small business owner. In the face of numerous adversities, staying focused on our path has been crucial. For those starting their journey, my advice would be to embrace persistence – view challenges not as roadblocks but as opportunities to grow and evolve.
Secondly, being proactive and execution-oriented has been a key skill. As a woman in business, I’ve found that actively engaging in processes and putting skin in the game is empowering. Early in your journey, my advice is to be proactive and hands-on. Dive into the details, understand your business intricately, and take charge of making things happen.
Thirdly, caring about people and creating moments of joy through my food has been a vital area of knowledge. Understanding the impact of our products on special occasions and being present during these moments has built strong connections with our customers. To those at the beginning of their journey, my advice is to cultivate a deep understanding of your customers. Care about their experiences, and let that knowledge guide your business decisions.
In essence, persistence, a proactive approach, and a genuine care for people have been my guiding principles. For those starting out, my encouragement is to embrace these qualities, refine the associated skills, and continuously deepen your understanding of your customers and their needs.
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
The most impactful thing my parents did for me was creating a balanced environment that shaped the person I am today. They struck a unique balance between being firm and loving. Their blend of strictness instilled in me the value of hard work and seizing every opportunity that life presents. Simultaneously, their love and warmth cultivated a sense of security and confidence.
Above all, my parents were instrumental in shaping my ethical compass. They taught me the importance of responsibility and integrity in every task I undertake. Their guidance has been the cornerstone of my ethical and responsible approach to both personal and professional commitments.
In essence, my parents provided me with a foundation built on a strong work ethic, a love for life’s opportunities, and a deep commitment to ethical conduct. It’s these principles that have guided me through my journey, and I am profoundly grateful for the invaluable lessons they imparted.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.brazilianbread.com
- Instagram: brazilianbreads
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/brazilianbreads
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/del-rodrigues-60351350/
