We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Vira Vasquez a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Vira, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.
Certainly, here’s a more polished and motivating version:
My life has been a journey of taking risks and embracing independence. I began my entrepreneurial journey as a single mother, having endured domestic violence, with three children to support and no safety net. Faced with the challenge of fixing my own credit to secure a rental, I persevered, and over the course of 7 1/2 years, I built a thriving $1 million business that has positively impacted more than 5000 individuals across the United States and Puerto Rico.
As I engaged with clients daily, I realized the pressing need for financial literacy, especially within marginalized communities, including Black and Brown individuals. As a Latina, I personally never received education on credit or finances, and this void in knowledge was a common theme. Determined to make a difference, I founded a nonprofit organization called ‘VAMOS for Total.’ Our mission is to offer classes and assistance to individuals in various settings, including jails, prisons, halfway houses, shelters, middle schools, high schools, and colleges. We’ve already conducted numerous classes and workshops.
I firmly believe that by empowering one generation with financial knowledge and opportunity, we can set in motion a positive ripple effect, breaking the cycle of poverty and ushering in abundance for generations to come
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I’m an ordinary woman with an extraordinary journey. I grew up in crime-ridden areas, faced adversity, and struggled with poor grades due to a turbulent and abusive upbringing. However, I’ve always harbored big dreams and worked relentlessly. I put myself through community college and university.
Growing up with a father involved in illegal activities, I, too, spent years in federal prison, which ultimately became a transformative experience. Now, I’m a better person with three successful businesses, a nonprofit organization, and the role of a single mom to three wonderful children, one of whom is exceptionally brilliant and has autism.
I firmly believe in second chances, and that’s why I’m passionate about helping my clients gain financial literacy, achieve their dream homes, comprehend credit, and boost their self-esteem. Teaching someone something valuable leaves an indelible mark. I believe our legacy is defined by our actions & good deeds, not wealth or fame.
I advocate for authenticity & honesty, and above all, I take pride in my personal transformation, setting an example for my children, and inspiring others to believe that, regardless of their origin or limited resources, they can change their lives with faith and hard work, while also lending a hand to others.
What’s been the best source of new clients for you?
Doing great work, and word of mouth!
Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?
I did marketing campaigns with Univision, Dallas Cowboys, Audacy and before that posting educational videos with calls to action that would resonate with normal/regular people like myself!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.vitacreditqueen.com
- Instagram: https://linktr.ee/vitacreditqueen/
- Facebook: Vita Credit Queen
- Other: https://www.facebook.com/vamosportodononprofit?mibextid=LQQJ4d