Gomez Trial Attorneys

The Power of Persistence: Building a Business From Scratch

 

Fabiola Gálvez is the Founder and CEO of Gente Bonita Magazine, a publication dedicated to highlighting Latino entrepreneurs, professionals, and community leaders throughout the San Diego–Tijuana region. Originally from Mexicali, Mexico, she is also involved in Gente Connect, an initiative focused on strengthening community relationships and professional networking across the border.

Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:

  • [01:45] Meet Fabiola Gálvez, founder and CEO of Gente Bonita Magazine, and discover her journey as a Latina entrepreneur.
  • [02:24] How moving from Mexicali to San Diego meant starting a new chapter personally and professionally.
  • [04:29] The challenges of adapting to a different business culture while pursuing new opportunities.
  • [05:26] How working with a local newspaper inspired Fabiola to create a publication celebrating Latino success stories.
  • [07:55] How persistence helped her secure her first advertising client and launch Gente Bonita Magazine.
  • [10:34] Why highlighting Latino entrepreneurs, artists, athletes, and community leaders became central to the magazine’s mission.
  • [11:27] How Gente Connect expanded the mission beyond publishing to building meaningful community relationships.
  • [13:22] Why Fabiola believes the San Diego–Tijuana region is one interconnected community despite cultural differences.
  • [14:21] The lessons she learned about entrepreneurship, understanding the market, and taking risks.
  • [15:14] How refusing to accept rejection has helped her overcome business challenges.
  • [16:11] The importance of Celebrando Latinas and supporting events that empower women in the region.
  • [19:09] Fabiola’s message about faith, spirituality, and finding strength through God.

In this episode…

John Gomez and David Arreguin welcome Fabiola Gálvez, founder and CEO of Gente Bonita Magazine, for an inspiring conversation about entrepreneurship, resilience, and connecting Latino communities across the border.

Originally from Mexicali, Mexico, Fabiola shares how she rebuilt her life after moving to San Diego and eventually transformed an unexpected professional setback into a business opportunity. When the newspaper she worked with stopped publishing, she refused to abandon her first advertising client. Instead, she launched Gente Bonita Magazine, creating a platform dedicated to celebrating Latino entrepreneurs, professionals, and community leaders.

Fabiola also discusses the creation of Gente Connect, the importance of networking, and her commitment to strengthening relationships between San Diego, Tijuana, and Mexicali. Recorded at Celebrando Latinas, this episode explores the power of persistence, community, and faith in building something meaningful

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Quotable moments

  • “Although we’re neighbors, business is different.”
  • “If you don’t take opportunities when they come, they go to somebody else.”
  • “I already had the idea, but I said, the magazine is going to come out.”
  • “The magazine is a vehicle.”
  • “It’s about connecting and growing together.”
  • “I’m a woman of great faith.”
  • “I’m not someone who accepts no.”
  • “Look for the positive side to take the next step.”
  • “Busquen a Dios.”
  • “Con Dios todo se puede.”

Action steps

  1. Turn setbacks into opportunities. When an unexpected challenge threatens your plans, explore how you can create something new instead of giving up.
  2. Be persistent in pursuing clients. Building business relationships often requires repeated effort, patience, and consistent follow-up.
  3. Understand your market. Research the business environment and cultural differences before launching or expanding a venture.
  4. Build a business around community needs. Identify opportunities to highlight, support, and connect people who are often underrepresented.
  5. Create meaningful connections. Use networking events and professional organizations to develop relationships that extend beyond individual transactions.
  6. Celebrate other people’s success. Sharing the achievements of entrepreneurs and community leaders can inspire others and strengthen local communities.
  7. Think beyond geographic borders. Look for ways to connect businesses and individuals across neighboring cities and countries.
  8. Stay positive when facing rejection. Treat obstacles as opportunities to adjust your approach and keep moving forward.
  9. Stay connected to your values. Let your beliefs, purpose, and personal principles guide your decisions as you grow professionally.

Sponsor for this episode…

This episode is brought to you by Gomez Trial Attorneys, a personal injury law firm based in San Diego.

Award-winning attorney John Gomez developed a nationally recognized legal team that goes above and beyond for injured clients.

With numerous designations, distinctions, and top-notch resources, we have what it takes to fight and win against major corporations.

For a free case evaluation, visit https://www.thegomezfirm.com/contact/.