Raise Her Up: Lourdes Juan

The What

What sparked your entrepreneurial spirit?

Growing up, my mom had three jobs while my dad finished his engineering degree. He eventually started his own business and my mom continued to work multiple jobs. Entrepreneurship is about being a problem solver and not being scared of the work. My parents set that example for me and sparked that entrepreneurial spirit pretty early on—even if they didn’t know it.

Can you tell us more about both of your businesses?

Hive Developments is an urban planning consultancy company. We focus on community engagement consulting for developers looking to build commercial or mixed-use developments in established areas. Soma Hammam & Spa is the Hotel Spa in the Marriott Hotel in Seton, where we provide traditional aesthetic services. Our signature treatment is the Hammam, a wellness ritual rooted in ancient spa bathing traditions. Soma is focused on ensuring clients get their regular dose of guilt-free self care!

How do you balance running two businesses and still make time for yourself?

I joke about this, but it certainly helps that I own a spa. For me, it’s about knowing that making time for myself means I’m more effective and productive when it’s time to hustle.

What ignited you to start your charity, Leftovers?

Recognizing general food injustice. We do not have a food shortage problem, we have a food waste and distribution problem. I wanted to do something about that. We ensure nutritious food is kept out of the landfill and instead redirect approximately 6000 lbs per week to over 50 service agencies and into the hands of those who need it most.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give your younger self?

Think of others and surround yourself with people that do the same.

One thing, people would be surprised to hear about you?

I curse. A lot.