Chief Executive Officer, Colada Shop

February, 2026
Photos by Pablo Roldan

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Your entrepreneurial journey began at a very young age in the Dominican Republic. Looking back, what do you think that early experience taught you about leadership and resilience?

Growing up in the Dominican Republic, I learned very early that leadership wasn’t something you waited to be given—it was something you stepped into. I watched people, especially women, make things work with very little, relying on creativity, intuition, and each other. That shaped me deeply. It taught me that resilience isn’t about being tough all the time; it’s about adapting, staying hopeful, and finding a way forward even when the path isn’t clear.

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You’ve built and led large, diverse teams across multiple restaurant concepts. What do you think are the leadership qualities that have helped you lead successfully?

I lead with empathy and honesty. I genuinely care about people—how they’re doing, what they need, and where they want to go. Hospitality is hard work, and I think people thrive when they feel respected and supported. I try to be clear, consistent, and present, and I always remind myself that leadership is about service. If you take care of your team, they’ll take care of everything else.

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From working in world-class kitchens like Le Bernardin to leading operations at Zaytinya and launching your own brands, what were some pivotal moments that shaped your career as an executive?

Each experience shaped me in a different way. Le Bernardin taught me discipline and excellence—how powerful it is to care deeply about details. Zaytinya showed me what it means to scale while maintaining culture. But launching Colada Shop was the biggest turning point. It was the moment I trusted myself fully—my instincts, my background, my voice. Building something that reflects who I am and where I come from changed everything.

Colada Shop has become a beloved DC institution not just because of great food but also because of its fun culture and connection to community. What do you think has mattered most in scaling the brand without losing its soul?

We’ve always stayed true to why we started: to create joy, warmth, and a sense of belonging. As we grew, we made very intentional choices—about our people, our spaces, and how we show up in the community. Growth is exciting, but it only works if it still feels personal. Protecting the soul of the brand has always been just as important as expanding it.

DC is now a serious food city. What makes this market unique, and what shifts are you seeing in what diners want? How is Colada meeting those dining preferences?

DC diners are thoughtful and curious. They care about stories, culture, and authenticity. People want food that feels real—something that connects them to a place or a memory. At Colada Shop, we meet that by staying rooted in our Cuban identity while evolving with our guests. We focus on approachability, quality, and creating spaces where people feel comfortable coming back again and again.

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You’ve consistently championed women, immigrants, and people of color in the hospitality industry. Why is mentorship and advocacy so important to you?

Because I know how much it matters to feel supported. I didn’t always see people like me in leadership, and that can be isolating. Mentorship is about saying, “You belong here. Your voice matters.” If I can help open a door, share a lesson, or simply encourage someone to keep going, that’s incredibly meaningful to me.

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You serve on several boards and leadership programs, including Women Chefs and Restaurateurs and the James Beard Women Leadership Program. How do these roles complement your work as an entrepreneur?

They keep me connected and inspired. Being part of these communities allows me to learn from others, give back, and stay grounded in the bigger picture of our industry. They remind me that leadership is ongoing—it’s about listening, growing, and supporting one another along the way.

What advice would you give to Latino executives or aspiring founders who are navigating growth, funding challenges, or competition?

Trust your voice and don’t be afraid to take up space. Learn the business side, ask questions, and build strong relationships—but don’t lose yourself trying to fit into someone else’s mold. Your story, your culture, and your perspective are strengths. Growth isn’t always smooth, and that’s okay. Keep going.

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You are part of the Latino Executive Network advisory board. What attracted you to LEN, and why do you think spaces like LEN are critical for Latino leaders today?

What drew me to LEN was the sense of community and intention. It’s a space where Latino leaders can connect, support one another, and grow together without having to explain who they are. Spaces like this are essential because they create access, visibility, and shared momentum.

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Since joining, what’s been the most meaningful impact LEN has had on you?

It’s reminded me how powerful peer support can be. Being surrounded by other Latino leaders who understand the journey—both the challenges and the wins—has been incredibly energizing and affirming.