Meet Bonnie Helena | Public Relations Manager

We had the good fortune of connecting with Bonnie Helena and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Bonnie, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
Work life balance can be a pretty tough sea to navigate when working in an industry that seemingly requires you to always “be on” and available. For me, it became even harder to find balance (particularly early in my career) as I juggled both the inherent pressure of working in the public relations industry and the pressure I placed on myself to always be available regardless of the circumstances. This approach to work can very quickly lead to burnout. Thankfully over the last two and a half years I have learned to slow down, set healthy boundaries and take things day by day. This has been crucial to my overall wellbeing and mental health.

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
This career has definitely pushed me in ways I didn’t realize I needed to be pushed. As an introvert, a career in communications can be quite terrifying. Especially in the very early years! While it hasn’t been an easy road, it is definitely rewarding to look back and reflect on everything I’ve been able to accomplish. So, I’d say I’m most proud of all of my accomplishments no matter how big or small. Every hurdle and every victory have played a big part into where I am today as a professional, and I believe my dedication and willingness to learn from every situation are what set me apart from others.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
This is a tough one because Miami has SO much to offer, especially when it comes to eating and drinking! I feel like Coral Gables and Coconut Grove have recently become pretty popular hotspots that offer great dining, drinks and fun nights out. Outside of that, you can never go wrong with Midtown or Brickell. If we’re talking pizza, La Leggenda Pizzeria on Española Way in Miami Beach has the absolute best Neapolitan pizza you will eat outside of Italy. It’s my favorite little hole in the wall, and the only reason you’ll find me in Miami Beach these days haha.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I have been fortunate enough to have encountered incredible people along my journey who have all played a significant role in the success of my career, and shaped me into the person I am today. I can’t say enough about my family, who have always been my biggest cheerleaders and supporters, and I truly believe that their encouragement set a solid foundation for me to pursue anything my heart desired. I’ve also been lucky to have met my former college professor, Dr. Park, who recommended me for my very first job in public relations which led to my love for the field. Additionally, I would not be who or where I am today without the mentorship and guidance from Sonia and Dana (two of my former bosses, and now my great friends) who took me under their wings and taught me invaluable lessons that have stuck with me to this day!

Instagram: @bonniehelena

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bonniehelena/