Sandra
“Being a woman is extremely powerful. We give life.”
Sandra is a strong and fearless leader. When she was only 20, she embarked on a two-month long bus journey from California to Central America. It was here that she came to the realization that she is her happiest living off the grid, surrounded by nature. Now she runs her own business Nopalera, a highly rated health and beauty company offering Mexican botanicals for bath and body. Sandra founded Nopalera to celebrate and amplify Latin culture; all the products are inspired by the “beauty and richness of Mexico”. She is a hard-worker and a go-getter who sets her mind to something and does it - regardless of the obstacles that might stand in her way. Meet Sandra. This is her story.
P: Please introduce yourself!
S: My name is Sandra Lilia Velasquez. I was born and raised in San Diego, CA to Mexican immigrant parents. I spent most of my life being a musician until I founded my own bath and body brand, Nopalera. My mission is to celebrate and elevate my culture and use my platform to tell our stories. I live in Brooklyn, NY with my daughter and partner. My goal in life is to live off-grid in nature and have the freedom to roam.
P: Describe or define yourself in your own words.
S: I am an action oriented badass. I turn thoughts into reality. I am naturally confident and impatient.
P: What is your favorite thing about yourself?
S: I am a problem solver. I have no issues with asking for help. I search and search until I find solutions to my problems. Being a business owner is solving problems every single day.
P: Tell us a story. Have you had an experience that’s defined you or made you stronger?
S: When I was 20 I took the bus from San Diego to Honduras alone. That two month trip has shaped who I am. I had nothing but a backpack. This was before cell phones! The freedom of being able to roam with no agenda is what I am chasing now as an older adult. I know I can get by on very little and am incredibly resourceful.
P: What is one piece of advice you would give to your younger self?
S: Invest your money into the stock market.
P: What does being a woman mean to you?
S: Being a woman is extremely powerful. We give life. I am lucky to be a mother.
P: Who is one woman that inspires you? What would you say to her if she were here now?
S: I am lucky to have a very inspiring mother. Fortunately, she is very much alive and thriving.