Connect Who or what is your inspiration in business?

After completing the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program, I identified a critical gap—small businesses lacked access to high-level branding that drives growth. That insight led to El Poder de la Marca® (The Power of the Brand®). Over the past three years, the program has helped minority business owners in Chicago elevate their brands, increase revenue, and create meaningful community impact.

How do you stay motivated?

I’m driven by the resilience of small business owners in Little Village and Pilsen. Many have incredible products but lack access to growth infrastructure. Seeing them gain confidence, increase revenue, and take ownership of their brand fuels my work. At FourStar Branding, we’re not just building brands—we’re helping entrepreneurs create economic stability for their families and communities.

What would you do with the $25,000?

The $25,000 would directly fund El Poder de la Marca® / The Power of the Brand® by providing pro bono brand strategy, website development, marketing tools, and digital visibility support to underserved minority-owned businesses. This investment would help entrepreneurs attract customers, increase revenue, and scale with confidence. The impact goes beyond branding—these businesses create jobs, strengthen local economies, and build long-term community wealth in Chicago.