Bernina Contrera: Peruvian Immigrant, Entrepreneur

“I came to America on January 28, 2001,” says Bernina Contreras. That was the day that she decided to change her life, her job, her husband, and her country. She says even her personality changed. A graphic artist, Bernina owned a print shop in Peru, a profession that she loved despite the toxic inks and chemicals. The toxins were not the only things that were hurting her; Bernina was also a victim of domestic abuse. “When I arrived in America, I was hurt, bruised, and betrayed,” she remembers sadly.

Bernina left Peru as a refugee, fleeing the terror of the Sendero Luminoso, or Shining Path, an extremist guerilla group that uses violence to spread its message. She arrived in California with her child, desperate to begin a new life. She began working two jobs, fighting her way out of poverty, when she met a new man whom she hoped would share her life. She soon realized that she had fallen into the same trap, once again becoming the victim of domestic abuse. But Bernina’s luck was about to change. Her therapist recommended that she call AnewAmerica and soon after she attended her first Business Incubation class in Spanish.

Through AnewAmerica’s program, Bernina learned to write a business and asset plan, develop a budget and marketing strategy, and build her credit. “The most important part of AnewAmerica’s support was the advice.” She also saved $2,200 in AnewAmerica’s Individual Development Account program. With her new skills and savings she was able to acquire a $25,000 loan from Circle Bank to start a house cleaning business. Her business became successful thanks to her education and hard work.

But Bernina’s story does not end there. While she was very proud of her house cleaning business, she also had a desire to pursue a career in cake decorating. She decided it was time to open a second business. “I have had this idea for many years, but AnewAmerica gave me the push I needed to make it happen.” By this time she had met and married a kind man who was helping to run the first business, giving her the opportunity to expand her entrepreneurial activities. She returned to Circle Bank and was granted a second loan for $35,000. “There are not many banks that will help people start a business. I recommend that everyone knock on the door of Circle Bank,” she says. “The owner truly wants to help Latinos and without their support, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

Bernina has been working hard on market research and advertising; she also relies on word of mouth. With the income from her two businesses she is saving for retirement and for her children’s futures. At AnewAmerica she also learned about social responsibility and is offering baking classes at her new shop. “This type of community service is like community art, there is a lot of tradition in cake baking and decorating. Many Latinos become discouraged because there are not classes offered in Spanish. I plan to motivate the people and help them discover their talents.”

Gaby’s Cake Supply
179 San Marin Drive
(In the San Marin Plaza Shopping Center)
Novato, CA 94945
(415) 897-4581