(BPT) - Over half of American adults have started a business at some point in their lives, according to the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor - but nurturing a business to long-term success requires an unmatched level of dedication. Many U.S. Army Soldiers are familiar with this level of commitment and have used the foundational skills they've learned in the Army to pursue other lifelong goals. One inspiring Soldier is using her leadership skills and rich cultural influences to pursue her passions in and out of uniform as both a service member and female entrepreneur.
Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Sgt. 1st Class Elizabeth Calderon - who is self-described as a 'coffee-holic' - was longing for something more satisfying than gas station coffee. With her go-to coffee shops closed for the foreseeable future, she began exploring new ways to brew her own blends, embodying the vibrant flavors and character of the proud Latino community that Calderon calls her own. Using the discipline she developed in the Army, Calderon founded her own company in 2021, Magia Coffee.
Just in time for Hispanic Heritage Month, Calderon is drawing from her experiences as a Soldier and female entrepreneur to share her words of wisdom for those looking to start a business while staying true to their roots.
Build an authentic brand.
It's easy to follow trends, but a truly memorable business idea comes from our own unique voice and character. In founding Magia, Calderon tapped into her Latino heritage and personal passion for coffee to create an authentic offering for her customers. From package design to coffee blends to the business model, she ensures every part of her brand speaks to her own experience and connects to her audience in a genuine way. The first bag she produced features La Mas Chingona, a reference rooted deeply in her Latino culture used to describe a strong, empowered woman, or as Calderon says, 'She's powerful, and you can't mess with her!' By tapping into what you know your audience will love, you can find what will make your business unique.
Plan to make plans.
There is a not-so-glamorous side to being an entrepreneur, and it calls for some serious planning and coordination. Finances, inventory, marketing and more all need to be considered as part of your business's day-to-day operations. As a former Army drill sergeant and now a human resources specialist, Calderon is no stranger to discipline, structure and organization, and is grateful that she is able to translate that skillset into her business savvy every day. '[The Army] is a huge part of where I've been going and where I'm heading,' says Calderon, and the skills, professionalism and integrity instilled in her through service have been key to her thriving business.
Build a community and pay it forward.
No one wants to run a business alone. As both a Soldier and a member of the Latino community, Calderon knows the importance of building and fostering connections with others and has tapped into her relationships to excel in every area of her life. When building her business, Calderon used her network to reconnect with a friend who eventually became her company's designer, and she is always looking for opportunities to engage other Hispanic artists and creators in her work. She also creates community through partnerships and support for other small business owners, young athletes and aspiring entrepreneurs.
When in uniform, Calderon works to be an example for young Hispanic Soldiers of what can be accomplished with an Army career. Allowing herself to be proud of everything she has achieved is something that Calderon admits she is still working on - but she knows that by reflecting on her success, she is also inspiring the next generation of Soldiers and small business owners.
While they may seem worlds apart, starting a business and serving as a Soldier requires complementary skills; as Calderon knows, both take tenacity, organization and a team of support. Part of that support can be found in the Army, which allows the flexibility for Soldiers like Calderon to pursue their passions.
By considering these tips from a Soldier who has lived it, you can start your own journey into entrepreneurship on the right foot with the vision to make it happen.
