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

Hi Josefina, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
The thought process behind starting Lozafina, my marketing and public relations firm, was deeply rooted in my passion for communication and my desire to make a positive impact on my community. Early in my journalism career, I developed the ability to connect with people from all walks of life, and I realized that this skill could be leveraged not just in journalism but also in helping businesses and organizations thrive.

The idea for Lozafina took shape in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. I observed how the pandemic was affecting small businesses, especially those in marginalized communities like the Black and Brown communities across the country. It was a challenging time, and many of these businesses were struggling to adapt to the new reality.

As I contemplated the situation, I asked myself, “How can I make a difference?” Throughout my career, writing had been my way of making sense of the world, and I realized that I could use my expertise to assist my community and local businesses in a meaningful way.

One common thread I noticed was that these businesses had incredible products and services, but they lacked the know-how to effectively communicate their value to the public. That’s when the idea of Lozafina was born. I wanted to bridge the gap between these amazing businesses and the people who needed their products and services.

A few months later, I launched Lozafina, LLC. The firm offers a wide range of services, including communication strategy, branding, messaging, public relations, and marketing. We take pride in our ability to connect brands with people, helping businesses and organizations tell their unique stories and reach their target audiences effectively.

In essence, Lozafina was created to bring together my passion for communication, my love for storytelling, and my commitment to supporting and uplifting local businesses. It’s been a rewarding journey, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to make a positive impact through my work as the founder and CEO of Lozafina.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Certainly, I’d be delighted to share more about my work and the journey that has led me to where I am today as the founder and CEO of Lozafina.

What sets Lozafina apart from others in the field of marketing and public relations is our commitment to genuine, authentic storytelling. We believe that every brand, whether it’s an artist, entertainer, corporation, small business, or non-profit, has a unique and compelling story to tell. We specialize in helping our clients discover and convey their authentic narratives to connect with their target audiences on a deeper level.

One of the things I’m most proud of is our ability to approach each client with a fresh perspective and tailor our services to meet their specific needs. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Instead, we take the time to understand our clients’ goals, values, and challenges, and we craft customized strategies to help them achieve success.

The path to where I am today professionally was far from easy. Like many entrepreneurs, I faced my fair share of challenges and setbacks along the way. However, one of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that the real failure is not in facing obstacles but in failing to learn from them.

I had to humble myself and ask for help when I encountered difficulties. This was a pivotal moment in my journey because it allowed me to adopt a growth mindset. I learned that seeking guidance, learning from mistakes, and adapting to change are all essential components of personal and professional growth.

Overcoming challenges required resilience and the willingness to pivot when necessary. It also required building a strong support network of mentors and peers who could provide guidance and encouragement during tough times.

The most significant lesson I’ve learned is the power of adaptability and the importance of staying true to one’s values. In the fast-paced world of marketing and PR, trends come and go, but authenticity and integrity remain timeless. By staying grounded in these principles and continuously learning and evolving, I’ve been able to navigate the ever-changing landscape of the industry.

What I want the world to know about me and Lozafina is that we are dedicated to making a positive impact through our work. We believe in the power of communication to bridge gaps, elevate brands, and create meaningful connections. Our story is one of perseverance, growth, and a commitment to helping others tell their stories authentically.

In a world where success is often measured by external metrics, I hope to inspire others to embrace the idea that failure is a valuable teacher and that growth and success are attainable through humility, adaptability, and a genuine passion for what you do. I want to encourage individuals and businesses to embrace their unique stories and use them as a powerful tool for connection and growth.

At Lozafina, diversity, the art of connecting brands with people, and our clients’ missions are always at the forefront of our work. We believe in using our skills and expertise to create meaningful connections that go beyond traditional marketing and PR.

One of our latest endeavors is the launch of a motivational planner and journal, available for preorder on Lozafina.com/shop. This planner and journal are designed to uplift people’s spirits, especially during challenging times when they need that extra encouragement to keep going. We understand the importance of mental health and the impact that positive messaging and motivation can have on an individual’s well-being. Through this product, we aim to inspire and empower individuals to overcome obstacles and pursue their goals.

Additionally, we’re excited to soon announce our collaboration with teen entrepreneur Alejandra Wells of GoShopHiya.com. Alejandra’s online jewelry boutique, Hiya, has a unique and impactful mission. For every bracelet sold, a bracelet is gifted to a teen in need of encouragement. Hiya’s brand messaging is focused on mental health awareness and suicide prevention, addressing critical issues that affect many young people today.

This collaboration with Alejandra and GoShopHiya.com aligns perfectly with our commitment to making a positive impact. We are proud to support initiatives that prioritize mental health and provide encouragement to those who need it most. Through our marketing and PR efforts, we will help amplify the message and mission of Hiya, spreading awareness and support for mental health initiatives and suicide prevention.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I would want to ensure they have an unforgettable experience. Here’s a little itinerary for a sampling of Miami because there’s no way to cover the entire city:

Day 1: Arrival and Beach Day
Start the trip by checking into the Waldorf Towers South Beach penthouse for a luxurious stay with a perfect view of the beautiful Miami Beach. (I’m a big fan of boutique hotels – especially with great architecture.) After settling in, head straight to the beach. Relax in the sun, swim in the ocean, and soak up the vibrant Miami Beach atmosphere.

Day 2: Exploring the Art Deco District
Begin the day with a delicious Cuban breakfast at a local cafe on Ocean Drive.
Explore the iconic Art Deco Historic District in Miami Beach, taking a stroll along Ocean Drive, Collins Avenue, and Washington Avenue. Admire the colorful architecture and soak in the history of the area.
In the evening, consider dining at a trendy restaurant in the district, combining art and cuisine. (There are so many it’s hard to name. So, if they can’t find one, they’re blind and tasteless, wink.)

Day 3: Miami’s Nightlife with DJ RERE
Reach out to DJ RERE, Miami’s hottest female DJ. Find out where she’s performing and plan a night out at one of the city’s top clubs or hotels where she’s spinning. Experience Miami’s electrifying nightlife, dancing the night away to DJ RERE’s beats. She’s fire!

Day 4: Explore Brickell
Take a day to explore the vibrant neighborhood of Brickell. Start with a brunch at one of the chic cafes.
Wander through Brickell City Centre for some upscale shopping and enjoy the modern atmosphere.
In the evening, have dinner at a trendy Brickell restaurant and sample some of Miami’s finest cuisine.

Day 5: Water Adventures
Dedicate a day to water adventures. Consider taking a boat tour of Biscayne Bay, where you can enjoy beautiful views of Miami’s skyline and possibly spot some celebrity homes.
Try water sports like jet-skiing or paddleboarding, or simply relax on the sandy shores of Key Biscayne.

Day 6: Cultural Exploration
Visit the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) to explore contemporary art and immerse yourself in Miami’s cultural scene.
In the afternoon, take a stroll through Little Havana for a taste of Cuban culture. Enjoy authentic Cuban cuisine and don’t forget to grab a cafecito.

Day 7: Farewell and Farewell Dinner
Spend your last day enjoying the beach, taking in the sun, and making the most of your final moments in Miami.
For a memorable farewell dinner, consider dining at a renowned restaurant with a panoramic view of the Miami skyline.

Miami offers an incredible mix of culture, entertainment, and natural beauty. It’s a city where you can enjoy both the vibrant nightlife and the serene beach life. Exploring its diverse neighborhoods and experiencing the local culture is what makes Miami such a special destination.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely, there are several individuals and groups that deserve my heartfelt shoutout and recognition for their invaluable support and influence in my journey as an entrepreneur.

First and foremost, I’d like to give a big “Thank you, Next” moment to my past experiences, including leaving a toxic relationship. While those times were undoubtedly challenging, they ultimately led me to a path of self-discovery and personal growth that allowed me to find my true calling as an entrepreneur. I believe that every experience, good or bad, shapes us, and I’m grateful for the lessons I learned along the way.

My daughters, Alejandra and Gabriella, are my pillars of strength. Their unwavering support and belief in me have been a constant source of motivation. They inspire me to keep pushing forward and set an example of resilience and determination.

I must also acknowledge the incredible influence of my immigrant parents, Rose and Benjamin Loza. Their tenacity, hard work, and determination have been a driving force behind my own pursuit of success. They instilled in me the values of perseverance and dedication, which have served as the foundation for my entrepreneurial journey.

I am deeply grateful to the key mentors who have played a pivotal role in my career. Bridget Belsky, Joey DeLoa, Danelle Schlegelmilch, Monique Farmer, and Katie Bruno have guided me through the ups and downs of the business woes behind the marketing and PR world. Their wisdom, advice, and mentorship have been instrumental in helping me navigate the complexities of the industry and achieve success.

Last but not least, I want to express my appreciation to my clients and the Lozafina Team. Their trust in me and my firm, Lozafina, has allowed me the creative freedom to explore innovative ideas and strategies. Their collaboration and partnership have been integral to our mutual growth and success.

In essence, I owe a debt of gratitude to these individuals, experiences, and relationships that have shaped my entrepreneurial journey. Without their support, encouragement, and guidance, I wouldn’t be where I am today, leading Lozafina and making a positive impact in the world of marketing and public relations.

Website: https://www.lozafina.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lozafina

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josefina-loza/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/LozaFina

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LozafinaLLC/

Image Credits
Group photo of Lozafina team is by Edwige Gayibor Three person-image of a gentleman in yellow African print, myself in a white dress, and a colleague in a yellow dress was taken by Tootie Claxton. Photo of three women all in black was taken by Anis Apovo. The others are candid photos at events and at Key West, Florida.

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMiami is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.