Published September 15, 2022.

Iliana G. Perez, Ph.D., Director of Research and Entrepreneurship of Immigrants Rising, and four Immigrants Rising entrepreneurship program participants and grant recipients share their perspectives and personal drives toward entrepreneurship.

“As people of color, growing up in poverty pushes us. I think the added layer of being status ambiguous pushed me even harder,” said Alessandro Negrete.

“In the absence of comprehensive immigration reform, more undocumented people will be pushed toward entrepreneurship over the next few years,” said Iliana G. Perez.

“Without papers, working for yourself is not only a way to survive,” said Denea Joseph. “In many instances, it’s a way to thrive.”

“Many in our community, we have no other choice than hustling,” said Armando Ibañez. “They may not know it but they are entrepreneurs in the community.”

“I will tell you that the same stands for a lot of immigrant folks I know, including my mom,” said Zacil Vazquez. “They have to work twice as hard to be able to provide for themselves. They have to be able to come to this country, learn the language, learn the customs and make something of themselves.”

Read the full story: Shut out of DACA, and traditional jobs, young immigrants start businesses to get ahead (Los Angeles Times)