Always A Student

I was recently asked by my high school Principal to be the guest speaker at the 2010 Senior Award Ceremony. Without hesitation, I accepted.

For me, it was a challenge and also an opportunity to meet many young men and women as they get ready to launch life after high school. Murry Bergtraum High School in New York City has always been a place close to my heart. Walking those hallways made me think of the community of teachers and friends I built and my beloved volleyball team. As I approached the auditorium I automatically went back to the time when I was a high school student myself. Back then everything was possible (not that it’s been so long!) and there was no fear whatsoever to talk about my goals and dreams.

One of the key points I shared with the graduating class of 2010 is the importance of finding mentors. I can go on and on about all the mentors I met over the years who helped me become the person I am today. While making this point, I came to the realization that I want to live my life as “a student.” When we do, we see endless possibilities with every opportunity. We are humble. We are not afraid to fail and try again.

Welcome to my Blog

Dear friends,

Welcome to my blog! I am so excited to launch my website and share with you my journey into entrepreneurship! Please check back as I will be updating my blog frequently.

The Sky is the limit!

Amalia

I have always been a creative person and like many women - a handbag lover. Several years ago my love of handbags, led me to conceive of an idea for an innovative interchangeable handbag. In 2010, I licensed that idea to a large accessory brand. Now I am excited to bring you my newest creation, The Flipbag.

Prior to entering the world of accessory design, I worked in the entertainment industry. I got my start as a project manager in New York City’s vibrant music scene. Over the years, I have worked with a high-profile group of artists including Shakira, Enrique Iglesias, Jennifer Lopez, Mark Anthony, Ricky Martin, Tito Puente and Celia Cruz, among others. I then transitioned into Television as a News Reporter for Univision in Denver, Colorado. As a Journalist, I was fortunate to interview influential political figures including Laura Bush, Elaine Lan Chao, Senator Ken Salazar, Senator John Edwards, Elizabeth Edwards, Teresa Heinz Kerry, Federico Pena, Pete Coors, Dolores Huerta and Eva Longoria (Actress and Activist). Working with all those celebrities was rewarding, exciting and challenging but not nearly as exciting, challenging and rewarding as being an entrepreneur in New York City.

Today I am active with Ladies Who Launch, the first new media company to provide resources and connections for women entrepreneurs. Ladies Who Launch has been instrumental in my journey as an accessory entrepreneur. I am also a member of WEN (Women Entrepreneurs Network) at the Eugene Lang Entrepreneurship Center at Columbia University and a member of LIMA: The International Licensing Industry Merchandiser’s Association.

I am currently working on expanding my line and I’m looking forward to creating more fashionable accessories to make women’s lives easier. I’m confident you’ll enjoy my Flipbag.