As a Guatemalan woman , I've always had a great passion for starting businesses and creating something from scratch. Even as a child, I loved selling things, and although it seemed like a game, I was already planting that seed.

My name is Regina , and I am the proud owner of Felinos and Saudade .

At FELINOS , we specialize in importing and selling cat products, mainly high-quality cat treats and food, because I believe our feline friends deserve the best.

At SAUDADE , we design personalized keepsakes , such as charms and rings, that preserve precious memories: fur, whiskers, or ashes of our pets. We also create unique accessories to preserve breast milk, a baby's first tooth, and other special mementos.

She faced challenges and obstacles, but always found a way to overcome them. My journey has been a process of learning and growth, full of joyful moments and also difficulties. I studied Industrial Design and worked in graphic design, but it was in children's event design and baking where my entrepreneurial journey began.

Alongside children's events, I discovered the market for bento boxes for kids and decided to import them from Japan. For several years, it was a very successful business. I taught baking and nutrition workshops for schools, and my children's and teens' accessories business was thriving. I supplied several bento shops and had a very active Facebook group for moms and school supply stores. I loved seeing families enjoy my products and knowing I was making a difference in their lives.

But with the pandemic, everything changed. It was a devastating blow, with financial losses and immense difficulties in surviving, as we had to stop and close down overnight. However, I didn't give up. Instead, I sought new opportunities and explored the pet market in Guatemala. And that's how FELINOS was born , with the mission of providing high-quality products to pamper our feline friends. Today, we have a wonderful community of cat lovers at FELINOS, where we share tips, experiences, and our love for our furry companions.

I believe the key to success is finding what motivates you and working hard to achieve your goals. It doesn't require a huge investment, just the desire to do it. Passion and determination are fundamental to achieving success. In Guatemala, I know we can move forward if we work without fear and with confidence in our abilities. As women, we must support each other and believe in our potential.

My message to women who are starting their own journey is: don't be afraid and take that first step. Life is too short not to venture out. With determination, creativity, and perseverance, we can achieve anything we set our minds to. So, if you're a woman looking for inspiration to start your own business, I say: don't give up! Keep going, even when it seems impossible.

Regina Garrido

📱 wa.me/50258991413

📷 @felinos.gt

📷 @saudadeguatemala