Victoria Builds a Sustainable Fashion Business Despite Economic Challenges in Venezuela
Name of Business: Victoria & Victoria Sustainable Fashion
Business Type: Clothing and Sewing
Location: Venezuela
My name is Victoria Figueroa. I am a wife, mother, and member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. My family includes my husband, Paul, our daughter, Victoria, and my brother-in-law, Paolo. We are a Venezuelan family united by faith, resilience, and the guidance of our Heavenly Father.
In 2018, my family went through an extremely challenging time. Our country was in the midst of a severe economic crisis marked by hyperinflation and scarcity of food and basic necessities. Even though both my husband and I were working, our income was not enough to meet our needs. After much prayer, we made the difficult decision for my husband to emigrate to another country to search for better opportunities, using our savings to support his journey. Although Paul provided for us from afar, the COVID-19 pandemic brought new uncertainties. I became increasingly concerned with finding a way to generate additional income while still dedicating time to my daughter.
During that period of confinement, I sought guidance through prayer, hoping to understand what I could do to support my family. After trying various activities, I discovered a true passion for sewing. I was able to take online courses on making children’s clothing, and with the support of a seamstress friend who let me practice in her workshop, I improved my skills. I began making pajamas and selling them online. I’ll never forget the excitement of making my first sale. This small success gave me the confidence to join the self-sufficiency group How to Start or Grow My Business, where I began shaping my business idea. I also became an active participant in the Academy for Creating Enterprise, where I shared my experiences and learned from others’ journeys. Their stories strengthened me and confirmed that I was on the right path.
In 2022, I received a blessing that helped me expand my business with a business kit for sewing. This allowed me to work independently and gave me the confidence to serve more clients. With this, Victoria & Victoria Sustainable Fashion was born. Through this venture, I make, transform, and repair clothing in a way that’s environmentally responsible. I love knowing that I’m helping my family and our planet in a small way.
The principles I learned from the Academy have been invaluable. Here are two golden rules that have guided me:
Sell What the Market Buys: Clothing is a basic need, so I have focused on making and repairing garments that people truly need.
Give Value to Your Clients: I provide personalized and caring attention, making sure each client feels valued and appreciated. This has helped me create lasting relationships in my community.
Last year, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in the 2023 Academy Awards in the Start Now category, where I achieved first place among the finalists. This recognition filled me with joy and gratitude. Every principle I learned at the Academy has played a role in my success, and I feel so blessed to be able to provide for my family. This business has also inspired me to study business administration and continue learning and growing.
I know that this is only the beginning and that there is a long road ahead. I am thrilled to walk this path with my Heavenly Father by my side, feeling His guidance and inspiration every step of the way. My hope is that this business will become a legacy for my daughter and a testament to what can be achieved with faith, perseverance, and the support of a loving Father in Heaven.
