Gabriela holds an Associate Degree in Business Administration, and Certificates in Public Management, Marketing and Sales, and Gastronomic Science and Management from three Universities in her home country, Venezuela.  

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To begin her career, Gabriela worked in marketing, sales, and distribution for XEROX, for four years where she was in charge of the Venezuelan central region. During this time, she developed her leadership, customer service, analytical and strategic skills. Next, she held an administrative staff position at the prestigious University of Carabobo for three years where she was responsible for purchasing and the budget. For the next three years, Gabriela joined the Nestle-Purina’s Sales and Distribution team and was responsible for personalized assistance and advice on marketing and sales strategies to a large portfolio of clients.

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Following her passion for cooking, Gabriela started a small business with her mother. She developed her own brand of seasoning and sauces called “Tomatito Express,” which can be found in a number of supermarkets and stores in Venezuela.  Her time at Nestle-Purina also inspired her to open a pet store. Through these two ventures, Gabriela developed her decision-making, risk assessment, personnel management, and self-discipline as a small business owner and investor.

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In 2018 Gabriela and her family immigrated to Bloomington, IL. She and her family, which includes her husband, two daughters, and dog, enjoy exploring nature and practicing outdoor sports especially running, and spending time with friends in the community. She also loves attending her daughters’ extracurricular activities, especially their cello concerts. Gabriela’s personal mission is to support and stimulate all entrepreneurs who wish to build more profitable and prosperous small businesses, as she firmly believes that opportunities not only come, but they can be created through hard work.

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Gabriela accepted the position as Business Advisor with the SBDC in August 2020.