INSPIRING LEADER MEET ERIKA TALLA

Erika is a young entrepreneur and owner of two successful businesses in South West Florida. She co-owns an Air Conditioning company with her husband, Cesar Roman, and  Hair, Nails & Skin Care Salon with her sister Leslie Talla. Like many of us, she started with a dream and, step by step, would build something magnificent. 

Erika is a mother, wife, and business women. She immigrated from Lima-Peru in 2005. Erika says, " I love this country and everything it stands for ."

As a young woman,  she worked in different industries, where she learned the meaning of the word " entrepreneur ." As years passed, she met her husband, and they started a family together. Erika and her husband would take a risk and open an Air Conditioning business. She had to make lots of sacrifices to be where she is today. Erika says, "I am almost certain that our passion, determination, and consistency have allowed us to get to where we are today."

Some risks may not pay off, but an optimistic risk-taker will always look at failure as an opportunity to learn. The willingness to experiment with new ideas is key to business growth. Erika knew this, which is why the idea of opening her own business came to light. The background, knowledge, and experience helped Erika make the critical decision to go to school and invest in her future. 

When we asked Erika about who her role model was and why she loved what she did, the first thing that she said was "my mother" 

"As a young woman, my role model was always my mother. She inspired me to be strong and independent. She owned a beauty salon in Lima- Peru and as you can imagine, growing up in that industry in a big city surrounded by hard-working women was something I admired. I always loved the environment, the comradery, and the trust people had when going into my mother's salon. That is something I loved and wanted for myself. 

Today, Erika Talla and Cesar Roman are two respected licensed professionals who serve the South West Florida area. They are known for their work ethic and commitment. "For us, it was important that everyone in our community understands the importance of quality products and services. We will go above and beyond for our customers"

When asked,  if you could give one piece of advice to someone starting a business, what would it be? Erika responded, "Understanding your motivation can help you. It will generate the feeling that you are made of stone and ready for anything- It doesn't matter when you start or how much capital you have; all it matters is the small steps you take towards your final goal. When things get hard, keep your head up high, and things will come together. 

You can find Erika at the salon, along with her sister Leslie Talla, the co-owner of Golden Hair and Nails Bar.

Story By: Esther Flores