These days, businesswomen face many challenges in an industry predominantly led by men. For many years, women have had to grow in the field facing underestimated skills, gender biases, unequal pay, and others. Even when they become entrepreneurs, challenges like financial funding, low self-confidence, and market saturation are still present.
I believe that supporting women’s ventures is a crucial step to help them—and all women—overcome any challenges they may face in their professional journey.
To commemorate women, and not just for a day or a month, if not all year, here are four local businesses owned by strong Puerto Rican women.
- Jíbara Kombucha
-
Jíbara Kombucha is a local brand of kombucha, a natural fermented beverage made out of green tea, black tea, or both. The owner, Stephanie Monserrate, a Puerto Rican farmer, chose this name as a reference to agriculture, women in agroecology, and an empowered approach to the local phrase: “¡Qué Jíbara! ¡Qué Jíbaro!”, which is typically associated with the stereotype of people who live in rural areas of the Island and lack certain knowledge or culture.
Besides the beverage—which I highly recommend trying if you haven’t already—Jíbara Kombucha sells soaps, natural sages, and much more.
- MODELS by Wilmary Monción
-
MODELS by WM is a modeling agency founded by Wilmary Monción Román. The agency focuses on developing and empowering Puerto Rican girls and women. MODELS was founded in 2015, when Wilmary was in need of income and decided to turn her passion into a business.
MODELS also offers workshops for adult women and personalized classes for people participating in beauty pageants.
- Hue Code Studio
-
Hue Code Studio is a visual identity studio founded by Frances Machuca, a Puerto Rican graphic designer also known as MissFrann. She worked in the advertising industry for 10 years as an art director, but decided to follow her dreams and create Hue Code Studio. Her mission is to create brands with a purpose and teach women how to create strategic content and grow their businesses.
If you are thinking about starting your brand—or improving it—and creating digital content with a purpose, Hue Code Studio is a must.
- DImaché
-
DImaché is a recycled paper jewelry line created by Daphne Isabel. She studied chemical engineering and, after a dismissal, her business inspiration grew.
Her shop’s jewelry is made from recycled paper that she creates from scratch. She uses an antique technique that consists of elaborating artistic and decorative objects out of paper paste.
You can find all kinds of jewelry in DImaché and with your purchase, you would also be contributing to an eco-friendly environment.
There are hundreds of women-owned businesses that you can support, both inside and outside of Puerto Rico. I encourage you to look them up, find the ones that you like, and enjoy every step of their creations. In a world where being a woman is challenging and discriminating, the best we can do is support each other and prove everyone else wrong.