Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ana Alvarez. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Ana, thanks for joining us today. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

Owlee Café & Studio was born from a deep passion for storytelling, creativity, and community. My sister Laura and I, both Colombian immigrants, wanted to create a space where people could feel inspired and productive, connect with others, and bring their ideas to life. As a filmmaker and storyteller, I’ve always believed in the power of spaces to shape experiences, and we wanted Owlee to be more than just a café—it’s a creative sanctuary.

Our mission is to foster productivity and artistic expression in a warm, welcoming environment. We know firsthand how hard it is to pursue creative dreams while juggling life’s challenges, especially in a city like New York. That’s why we built Owlee—to be a place where artists, freelancers, and dreamers can find focus, encouragement, and collaboration. Every cup of coffee, every workshop, and every conversation that happens here is a small step toward making creativity more accessible and community-driven.

This mission is personal to us. It’s about giving others the space we once longed for—a space that nurtures ideas, fuels ambition, and reminds people that they’re not alone in their journey.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I am a Colombian journalist and filmmaker with a deep passion for storytelling. My journey into filmmaking wasn’t exactly linear—I started in journalism, drawn to uncovering real stories and amplifying voices that often go unheard. But over time, I realized that my love for storytelling extended beyond the written word. I wanted to capture emotions, nuances, and human experiences in a way that words alone couldn’t. That’s what led me to documentary filmmaking.

I studied documentary filmmaking at NYFA, where I honed my skills in directing, cinematography, and editing. One of the projects I’m most proud of is The Black Sheep (2023), a documentary that explores the life of a boy adopted by his biological father’s ex-wife—one that reinforced my belief in the power of visual storytelling.

Over the years, I’ve worked on various projects, from intimate documentaries to commercial video work. I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with inspiring creatives and explore different aspects of visual media, always seeking stories that resonate on a human level.

But beyond filmmaking, I’ve always been fascinated by the spaces where creativity happens. I’ve worked in cafes, co-working spaces, and studios, and I’ve seen firsthand how the right environment can shape the creative process. That realization planted the seed for Owlee Café & Studio.

Now, as a filmmaker and entrepreneur, I’ve found a way to bridge both passions—storytelling and community-building. Whether I’m behind the camera or curating an event that sparks meaningful conversations, my goal remains the same: to create and foster stories that matter.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that creativity thrives when people feel seen, heard, and supported. That’s what I strive for in my work, and that’s the kind of space I hope to cultivate—whether through film or through the creative community we’re building at Owlee.

How do you keep your team’s morale high?

Managing a team and maintaining high morale starts with empathy. People thrive when they feel seen, heard, and valued—not just as employees but as individuals with their own challenges, aspirations, and creative energy.

For me, leadership is about building relationships, not just delegating tasks. I make it a priority to check in with my team, not just about work but about how they’re feeling. A simple “How’s your day going?” or recognizing when someone needs support can make all the difference.

Creating a space where people feel safe to express themselves, share ideas, and even make mistakes fosters a culture of trust and growth. I also believe in leading by example—if I want my team to be passionate, collaborative, and open, I need to embody that energy myself.

Finally, celebrating small wins, offering encouragement, and reminding everyone why their work matters helps keep morale high. When people feel like they’re part of something meaningful, motivation comes naturally. At the end of the day, a great team isn’t just about skill—it’s about connection.

How’d you meet your business partner?

My co-founder is my sister, Laura, and I honestly couldn’t imagine building Owlee Café & Studio with anyone else. From the very beginning, we shared the same vision—creating a space where creativity, productivity, and community could come together. But beyond the business, what makes our partnership so strong is trust.

Having a business partner you can rely on completely is everything. With Laura, I know that no matter what challenge comes our way, we’ll figure it out together. We don’t just talk about work; we check in on each other, support each other, and always make sure we’re on the same page.

Empathy is key. A strong partnership isn’t just about dividing tasks—it’s about understanding when the other person needs help, when they need space, and when they just need someone to listen. That’s what makes working with my sister so special. We’re not just building a business; we’re building something that reflects both of us, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://owleecafestudio.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/owleecafestudio/

Image Credits

Actual Nature – Louise Legay