We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Franchesca Vargas a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Franchesca, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Let’s talk legacy – what sort of legacy do you hope to build?

I aspire for my legacy to be that of a catalyst for change and a dedicated facilitator of opportunities. I believe that being a curator goes beyond art; it encompasses connecting people and fostering community growth.

I hope that once I’m gone, others are inspired to continue the work and push for true equity. The goal is not that one person be immortalized but that, as a collective, we create great impact.

If I am remembered for anything, I hope that it would be for my dedication and heart.

Franchesca, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I am a first-generation American mother of four. I started my business 4.5 years ago just by happenstance. During the BLM movement, my children wanted to join me in protesting in Seattle. But because the police were completely out of control, it was unsafe for them to do so. Because of that, I decided to organize a protest here in Renton, WA for children and families. I invited them out to express their feelings through the medium of art and also let them lead the protest to help them learn that one person can make a difference and that they do have the power to use their voices and gifts for change. After the protest, I was approached by the city’s arts commission to curate a city art walk. I had been a stay-at-home mom for 12 years at the time, and although I had taught art in the schools, had a natural affinity for art, and had always been a creative person, I had no actual experience organizing events or curating art. Although I didn’t understand why they chose me, I felt a sense of responsibility to follow through with this for our community. The Art Walk was extremely well received, and after that, my business essentially manifested itself.

Fast forward to now, 4.5 years later, I have grown that one opportunity into a flourishing business named Elevate PR Management, a PR business. I use my keen eye for talent and passion for uplifting underrepresented voices through my business, Elevate PR Management.

Elevate PR Management’s mission is to empower and amplify the voices of local businesses, artists, community organizations, and Black/Brown-led nonprofits through exceptional PR and event planning services. We aim to uplift and support these organizations by providing them with the necessary tools and resources to promote their vital work, increase their visibility, and drive positive change in their communities. Our goal is to foster long-lasting relationships with our clients and help them achieve their mission of creating a more equitable and just society.

About the Art Curating Sector of the Business:

I believe that art is a potent force that transcends barriers and ignites change. It possesses the remarkable ability to touch hearts, challenge perspectives, and inspire action. Through art, I convey powerful messages, shedding light on social injustices, advocating for marginalized communities, and demanding systemic change. It is a medium I hone to empower individuals to amplify their voices, express their grievances, and mobilize others towards a common cause.

I am most proud that I have built a purpose-driven business where we practice community over competition and impact over income. I believe that the thing that sets my business apart from others is my natural ability to genuinely connect with those I work with.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

I’ve always believed that the strength and resilience I hold in business stem from being a young mother to four children under five years old while navigating the demanding responsibilities of being a full-time student with little to no support.

Every day presents new challenges and obstacles, but it is my unwavering love for my children and my relentless determination to create a better future for us that keep me going.

Despite the overwhelming circumstances, I find solace in knowing that every sacrifice and hardship is a stepping stone towards a brighter tomorrow for my family and community. My journey as a young mother and student has taught me the true meaning of resilience, perseverance, and unwavering dedication.

I’ve continued to build this business while raising children and prioritizing my family’s needs. This often means late nights, long hours, and not enough rest. But I have a deep understanding of delayed gratification, and I also understand that although things are hard and tiring now, I am building something greater than myself, and that makes it all worth it.

Do you have any insights you can share related to maintaining high team morale?

Honestly, I often struggle with the leadership role in that I tend to make too many allowances for others and need to learn how to be a bit tougher!

One thing I believe does make me a good leader is the fact that I lead through service.

Leading through service, I believe, brings purpose, fulfillment, and a sense of unity to all those I work with.

When my team sees me rolling up my sleeves and working alongside them, offering support, guidance, and a listening ear, they feel valued, respected, and motivated to do their best.

I hope that this approach helps to foster a culture of trust, collaboration, and empowerment, where everyone feels heard, appreciated, and inspired to contribute their unique strengths towards a common goal.

In serving others, I not only lead but also hope to uplift and unite, creating a positive and harmonious work environment where morale thrives and success is inevitable.

Contact Info:

• Website: elevateprmanagement.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elev8prm/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Elev8prm

Image Credits
Pull Photos Headshots Sea