Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Gopiao.
Jessica, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I am a twenty-something lawyer and everyday abolitionist. I wanted to find a fun way to celebrate International Women’s Day and stumbled upon Free the Girls, a non-profit that collects bras donated by women in North America in an effort to help survivors of human trafficking!
These survivors are set up to start their own small businesses by selling the donated bras in their countries. In Mozambique, El Salvador and Costa Rica, bras are highly-coveted items and sell for top dollar. Just four bras are enough to create a living wage to a survivor in Mozambique!
Back in January, I cleaned out my closet, donated my own bras, and hosted a small fundraiser with a $200.00 goal. Within 72 hours, my fundraising goal was met! I was so excited to see how much people supported the cause and wanted to take it one step further!
That’s when Mardi Bras was born. The event features a complimentary Zumba class taught by Katey Maddux, free swag and snacks, and a raffle with prizes that value up to $200.00. It’s taking place on Friday, March 8, 2019, from 7-8: 30 pm at X Miami’s rooftop—230 NE 4th St. Miami, FL 33132. Hope to see you there!
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
As a Southern California native and new lawyer, it has been very tough trying to spread the word about Mardi Bras! Sometimes I feel like Miami is a tough city to branch out and meet new people.
We’d love to hear more about what you do.
I work full-time as a business and commercial litigation attorney in downtown Miami. I have wanted to become a lawyer since my sophomore year in high school and am very proud of my achievements.
That said, I don’t want to be defined by one thing. I always make an effort to invest in other things, like supporting Free the Girls.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I do not believe in luck. Roman philosopher Seneca said it best: “Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.”
Contact Info:
- Address: 230 NE 4th St., P Floor Miami, FL 33132
- Website: Splashthat.mardibras.com
- Instagram: Instagram.com/namastewithfitness
Getting in touch: VoyageMIA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
