Embracing Dreams and Diversity:
From Childhood Dreams to Entrepreneurial Triumphs
A Dreamer’s Journey
In the vibrant landscapes of my childhood in Ecuador, I nurtured dreams that seemed as vast as the sky itself. As the sun cast its golden glow on our mango tree, my cousins and I, young hearts full of curiosity, found joy in the simplest of things. While they reveled in adventurous games, I discovered a different way to play, one that would shape my path to empowerment.
A mango tree, a symbol of abundance and growth, stood tall in our garden. My cousins and I, all around ten years old, shared the warm Ecuadorian days beneath its welcoming branches. While they raced and wrestled, I felt a yearning for something different, something beyond the ordinary. And so, an idea blossomed, transforming my role in our youthful escapades.
The Seed of Entrepreneurship
Enlisting my cousins’ help, we embarked on a mission to empty the mango tree of its treasures. Armed with water and small bags, we set to work. Peeling, cutting, and packaging mangoes became our mission. My cousins found delight in climbing the tree, while I found purpose in crafting a new kind of playtime. Those mangoes became more than fruit; they were the first steps towards the entrepreneurial spirit that would guide me.
Lessons from Visionaries
As the years passed, I carried the essence of my childhood dreams within me. Jim Rohn’s words echoed in my mind: “Work harder on yourself than on your job.” Meanwhile, Michelle Obama’s message of embracing change resonated deeply. The dreams of my illiterate grandparents and my own aspirations converged, igniting a fire within me to transcend the barriers life had placed before us.
A Journey to Finding My Voice
Amidst my dreams, I ventured into the world of journalism, my heart ablaze with a passion for truth and justice. I spoke out against inequality and advocated for equal treatment, even if it meant challenging the status quo. This tenacity carried me through journalism school and onto television screens. Yet, life’s twists brought me to Iceland, where I encountered the harsh reality of being an immigrant.
From Dreams to Challenges
Transitioning to Iceland presented challenges, but also remarkable moments of connection and acceptance. My journey took me to Isafjorð, where the warmth of the people enveloped me, proving that a sense of belonging knows no boundaries. My stepfather’s Esso gas station became a haven for me to immerse myself in bookkeeping, yet also a gateway to dreams of working alongside icons like Oprah.
Empowerment Through Diversity and Dreams
My journey from mango trees to becoming an entrepreneur unfolded like a story whispered in the wind. Two degrees, dreams, and determination led me to establish my own consultancy business. Through Niba, I empower aspiring entrepreneurs, and my podcast, Ideas Forge, fuels innovation.
As I look back, I’ve realized that dreams are the threads that weave our journey. Just as my dreams transformed a mango tree into a playground of possibility, your dreams have the power to shape your destiny. In a world of shifts and changes, remember that every step you take adds to the tapestry of your story. Embrace your journey, for it is uniquely yours, and together, we can empower ourselves and others.
Nathalia Bardales Araujo Tómasdóttir, affectionately known as Niba, is an entrepreneur, storyteller, and advocate for empowerment. With a passion for embracing dreams and celebrating diversity, Niba’s journey from childhood mango trees to entrepreneurial success reflects the resilience of the human spirit. Through her consultancy, Niba is dedicated to guiding aspiring entrepreneurs towards their goals, embodying the essence of empowerment that she carries from her Ecuadorian roots to her Icelandic endeavors.
