We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Elizabeth Acevedo. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Elizabeth below.
Hi Elizabeth , so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?
I came to the United States in 2002 when I was 16 years from Zambia and immediately received a culture shock of being the only one in rooms.
After over 20 years in the banking industry, I have learned that being the only one in a room is lonely. However I have been effective and successful in these rooms is by doing the following:
1. Reminding myself that I am worthy to be in this room, regardless of being the only one
2. Listening to other voices and an opportunity people the space on the table. There is always room for more.
3. Treating others how I would like to be treated
4. Being prepared for meetings, doing my homework and ensuring I have gathered facts
5. Always expect a curve ball and ensuing that I am not shaken or thrown off if things do not go my way
6. Ensuing that my voice is heard in the room. Speaking out and providing your opinion in meetings makes you become successful.
7. Paying attention and not multitasking!
8. Creating relationships by caring about your clients, employees and or colleagues.
9. Having a heart of gratitude.
10. My faith
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
My name is Elizabeth Acevedo, I’m 39 years old and I’m a wife and mom to two kids (5 & 3).
I recently left the banking industry after 20 years to start my own skincare company Bupe Beauty. This journey began after I lost my mother from cancer in 2023. Through this journey of grief and depression I started researching on natural skin care products as a preventative measure. I was determined to know what I put into my body.
This journey lead me to myrrh and frankincense and the benefits that synergy give skin. Within a short period of time I learned how to make body scrubs, oils, body butters, oils, lip balms. It is almost like déjà vu, l have made these products before.
I believe that through the loss of my mother I received a gift of beauty. Thats where the company name came from, Bupe! This is name from my tribe Bemba which means “gift”.
Bupe Beauty products all are homemade, no preservatives and are perfect for all skin types.
I love sharing my story and my products because it keeps my mothers memory alive and most importantly its a reminder to tell people who are going through grief and or depression that there is always light at the end of the tunnel. Something beautiful always comes out of the darkness times.
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?
1. Being open to feedback about your business and products. Feedback may be hard to hear but it always makes you grow. Don’t be too sensitive if a customer or a peer gives you feedback! It only makes you stronger.
2. Believe in yourself! You always have to have faith in yourself and your abilities. Be your number one cheerleader!
3. Dont be afraid to try again when you fail! Falling is not the end of it! Pick your self up and ensure you dont make the same mistake that made you fall.
Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?
My husband – Alfredo Acevedo. He has been my rock and shoulder to cry on. He has taught me to love myself and believe in myself. He has taught me that with confidence in yourself you can do anything. In the past, I used to limit myself and waited for someone to help me overcome thinks.
I have learnt that the first step in overcoming any situation is believing in myself. I have learned to look into the mirror and believe in yourself.
Trust that with God all things are possible! But the first step is being in yourself! Thanking yourself, loving yourself and most importantly knowing its going to be okay!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.Bupebeauty.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bupebeauty
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bupebeauty
Image Credits
Wendell
Danielle
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
