We had the good fortune of connecting with Selines Silverio and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Selines, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
The decision to start my own business was driven by a profound realization about the prevalent “vulture culture” in corporate America. Having experienced the cutthroat environment firsthand, I yearned to break free from it and pursue something I am genuinely passionate about.
In launching my new business, I am excited to introduce a platform dedicated to providing financial education programs to nonprofit organizations with a special focus on empowering youth, women, and the broader community. Through this initiative, I aim to bridge gaps in financial literacy, particularly among demographics that may face greater challenges.
Our platform will serve as a catalyst for positive change by offering tailor-made financial education programs to nonprofit organizations. These programs will specifically address the unique needs of youth and women, fostering a better understanding of financial concepts and empowering them to make informed decisions about their financial well-being.
Furthermore, our commitment extends beyond traditional educational formats. My business partner Michelle Caba and I have joined forces to create an empowering network called WOMEN’s WEALTH CIRCLE, dedicated to breaking the taboo around women and money. Our mission is to empower and educate women on building wealth, recognizing that the journey can be challenging to navigate. With WOMEN’S WEALTH CIRCLE, we aim to bridge that gap and foster a supportive community for women from diverse backgrounds. In addition to the enriching discussions, our network includes a dynamic Venture Capital component. Proceeds from memberships will support women’s businesses through pitch competitions and the completion of the Style Your Business Digital program. Furthermore, 10% of membership dues will contribute to The Women’s Fund Miami-Dade, working towards positive change for women and girls. We plan to organize empowering events centered around financial education, with a special focus on women’s empowerment. These events will provide a dynamic platform for networking, learning, and fostering a sense of community.
By combining educational programs with engaging events, we aspire to create a holistic approach to financial empowerment. Our goal is not only to impart knowledge but also to inspire and build a community that champions financial literacy as a key tool for personal and community growth.
I am passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of individuals and communities, and I believe that providing accessible financial education is a powerful way to achieve this. I am eager to embark on this journey and contribute to creating a more financially empowered and resilient society.
My journey in finance and asset management, serving as the VP of Event & Marketing at GAMMA INTERNATIONAL BANK, provides me with a rich background fostering my desire to have a lasting impact on my community. This experience fueled my desire to create a business where I could make a positive impact, focusing on activities I love and believe in.
My passion lies in giving back to the community, particularly in teaching financial literacy and wellness topics. I am driven to share my knowledge, especially with the youth and women, and contribute to the empowerment of black and brown communities that need it the most.
In my current corporate role, I wear multiple hats, overseeing event curation, marketing campaigns, and guiding junior event coordinators. This diversity of responsibilities has equipped me with a strategic mindset and a positive attitude, essential elements in steering the success of our team and organization.
Beyond my professional endeavors, my commitment to community service is deeply rooted. Volunteering at nonprofits allows me to teach financial classes in both Spanish and English, bridging language gaps and fostering financial literacy where it is needed most.
My previous roles at PNC Institutional Asset Management and Holy Cross Hospital reflect my dedication to tailored solutions and comprehensive support. Whether consulting with clients, conducting educational presentations, or managing HR processes, my goal has always been to contribute positively and make a meaningful impact.
In essence, my decision to start my own business stems from a desire to create a positive change, away from the corporate vulture culture, towards a focus on community impact, relationship-building, and leading by example. I am excited about the prospect of aligning my professional journey with my passion for giving back and creating positive change.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My professional journey has been a remarkable voyage filled with a love for finance and asset management, guided by my faith in God throughout my life. I proudly served as the VP of Event & Marketing for GAMMA ASSET MANAGEMENT, infusing a unique blend of financial expertise and a passion for community impact through curating events to make impactful experiences. Wearing multiple hats at Gamma Asset Management was a labor of love, as I oversaw events and marketing campaigns. This role allowed me to contribute not only to the success of our organization but also to the community through impactful initiatives, filling my heart with joy.
What truly sets me apart is not just my financial acumen but my deep-seated love for collaboration and empowerment, instilled in me from childhood by my father. His teachings, rooted in faith, emphasized that giving back is better than receiving—a philosophy that has profoundly influenced my approach. Proverbs 11:25, “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed,” encapsulates this guiding principle.
My career has been significantly shaped by impactful women, including Lucia Davis Raiford, Marya Meyer, Michelle Caba, and my involvement as a board member of The Women’s Fund of Miami-Dade and being the chairing the Women Leading Broward program. These connections have been instrumental in cultivating my mindset and approach, guiding me toward a more empowering and community-focused direction.
In addition, my faith in God and the teachings of my father have fueled my commitment to serving as a mentor for children at the nonprofit organization BIG BROTHER BIG SISTER OF MIAMI. Being a BIG for two littles is a source of immense joy, reflecting my profound love for making a positive impact on young lives.
Navigating my career path, though challenging, has been fueled by a passionate desire for change and a commitment to contribute to the community. This led me to take a bold step to launch my own business, driven by a passion for providing financial education programs to nonprofits, with a special emphasis on youth and women.
Through this journey, I’ve discovered the importance of resilience, adaptability, and a continuous love for learning. Overcoming challenges required a mindset shift and staying true to my values, fueled by my passion for making a meaningful impact.
What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that I am more than a financial professional; I am a community champion, an advocate for financial literacy, and a passionate individual dedicated to empowering others. My brand symbolizes positive change, community impact, and a commitment to fostering a more financially literate and empowered society—all driven by a profound love and passion for making a difference. I eagerly anticipate leveraging my skills and experiences, guided by my faith, to continue spreading this love both professionally and within the communities I serve.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Oh, buckle up for a week of pure fun and laughter! If my best friend were visiting, we’d embark on an epic adventure filled with fantastic food, lively entertainment, and a whole lot of pampering.
Day 1: Taste Extravaganza
We’d kick off the week with a culinary journey at the chicest places in town. From a cozy corner bistro to a rooftop fine dining spot, we’d savor every bite and probably debate about which place serves the best dessert.
Day 2: Latin Beats and Dance Moves
Time to shake off those calories! We’d hit the town to catch a live performance by a sizzling Latin band. The night would be filled with infectious beats, spontaneous dance moves, and uncontrollable laughter. Who knew we had those dance moves hidden in us?
Day 3: Zen and Pampering
After all that excitement, it’s spa day! We’d indulge in the most luxurious spa treatments, float in fluffy robes, and gossip about everything under the sun. Because, let’s be honest, spa days are the best therapy.
Day 4: Brunch Extravaganza
We’d embrace our “Brunchers and Spa gals” title and embark on a brunch extravaganza. From trendy brunch spots to hidden gems with bottomless mimosas, we’d brunch our way through the day, savoring each bite and making memories.
Day 5: Art and Culture Exploration
Time to enrich our minds! We’d visit art galleries, explore cultural hotspots, and maybe even stumble upon a quirky street performance. After all, a week isn’t complete without a dose of creativity and culture.
Day 6: Hidden Gems Tour
We’d take a detour to explore the offbeat, hidden gems that locals cherish. From a cozy bookstore to a vintage vinyl store, our eclectic tastes would lead us to places that are as unique as our friendship.
Day 7: Farewell Bash
As the week wraps up, we’d gather our newfound memories and head to a rooftop bar to toast to an unforgettable time. We’d laugh about the mishaps, relish the unforgettable experiences, and probably start planning our next adventure.
Because when the best friend is in town, every day is a new opportunity for laughter, exploration, and making the most out of life! Cheers to friendship and endless adventures!
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Absolutely! I would like to dedicate this shoutout to the incredible individuals and organizations that have played a pivotal role in shaping my journey and empowering mindset. Firstly, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Michelle Caba, whose collaboration and thought leadership have been a catalyst for transformative change in my professional and personal life.
My involvement as a board member of The Women’s Fund of Miami-Dade and Neighbors4Neighbors and chairing the Women Leading Broward program has been instrumental in connecting me with impactful women who have inspired and influenced my path. The collective wisdom and support within these communities have been a driving force behind my decision to embrace a more empowering mindset.
Additionally, I want to recognize Camillus House the nonprofits that I have the privilege of working with, where I actively contribute to teaching financial literacy to the homeless and the youth. This organization has provided me with a platform to make a meaningful impact on lives, fostering a sense of community and shared empowerment.
To all those who have been a part of my journey, offering support, mentorship, and encouragement, I am truly grateful. This shoutout is a testament to the collaborative efforts of a network that believes in the power of empowerment and community building.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/selinescommunity_impact?igsh=YnI2enpkdmlzbWZo&utm_source=qr
Image Credits
The pictures are my personal pictures.