Spotlight Juan Francisco Martinez Lara, BAS Project Manager

Q & A: An Interview with Juan Francisco Martinez Lara on his first 100 days as the Business Acceleration Services Project Manager at Sunshine Enterprises. Juan joined Sunshine Enterprises in early May to revitalize the 90 Day coaching program. 

Q: What appealed to you about Sunshine Enterprises?

A:  I want to apply my knowledge and experience to Sunshine because I want to work amongst diverse cultures and ethnicities. I worked for close to 6 years at the Mexican consulate office in Chicago where I served a primarily Hispanic clientele. It is important to me to apply my talents towards serving vulnerable communities across the city. Sunshine Enterprises is a natural fit for my career because of my background in business and coaching alongside my interest in educational organizations.

Q: What are your hopes for the next year at Sunshine Enterprises?

A:  In my first year, I want to master my understanding of the Business Acceleration Services (BAS) process.  Primarily, I am focused on improving the 90 Day Coaching program.  After a student graduates the Community Business Academy, they are individually placed with a professional business coach who helps them reach entrepreneurial milestones.  Strong connections between alumni and coaches lead to better results.  I am working towards improving the coach pairing process and giving alumni the right resources they need.

Q: Why do you like most about working for Sunshine Enterprises?

A:  At Sunshine, I get to offer people the tools they need to have successful businesses.  When you give entrepreneurs the right tools, you empower them to achieve their dreams.  The communities we support are not only economically disadvantaged; typically, they are in need of much more support.  Entrepreneurship is an avenue of resilience and growth for many and I’m happy I get to contribute to that journey.

Q: What has surprised you about your first 100 days at Sunshine Enterprises?

A: The organization has a lot of potential and is at a high growth stage.   I am pleasantly surprised by how many opportunities we have to change lives.  Our relationship with Rising Tide is extremely impactful to how we collectively operate and offer resources.

Q: What are 3 words you would use to describe Sunshine Enterprises?

A: Heart, Teamwork, Vision