Written by: Paloma Diaz Rivas

In a world where financial uncertainty looms large, Elizabeth Villarreal stands as a beacon of hope, reshaping the landscape of financial education and empowerment. From navigating corporate layoffs to founding MonaLiza Consulting, Elizabeth’s journey is a testament to resilience, determination, and a deep commitment to improving financial literacy.

Elizabeth’s corporate experience exposed her to the harsh realities of job insecurity and financial unpreparedness. Despite a well-funded retirement plan, she found herself among the 70% laid off during a restructuring, just three years before retirement. Witnessing colleagues struggle without emergency savings highlighted a glaring gap in financial preparedness, especially among middle and lower-class families. Motivated by this, Elizabeth embarked on a mission to educate and empower individuals to safeguard their financial futures.

MonaLiza Consulting stands out in the financial consulting space by prioritizing inclusivity. Maria’s personal experience of being ignored by financial advisors due to a modest portfolio drove her to ensure that financial services are accessible to all, irrespective of income. The firm provides tailored guidance, including financial health checks for individuals of all income levels, empowering clients to make informed decisions and achieve their long-term financial goals.

Through MonaLiza Consulting, Elizabeth has witnessed transformative moments as clients confront and understand their financial realities. The “Financial Health Check” often serves as a turning point, illuminating clients’ financial habits and inspiring them to craft strategic plans for wealth-building. This newfound understanding equips clients to face life’s challenges—such as illness or job loss—with confidence and resilience.

Elizabeth leverages her experiences as a co-author and upcoming solo author to inspire others about entrepreneurship and financial security. Her soon-to-be-released book, “Turning Adversity into Opportunity: Job Loss to Entrepreneurship,” shares lessons from her journey, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and determination in achieving dreams. As an international speaker for Latina Talk, Elizabeth tailors her messages to resonate with diverse audiences, empowering women to embrace their inner light and overcome obstacles.

Elizabeth’s initiative, “Espresso Yourself,” fosters collaboration among women entrepreneurs, providing a platform for mutual learning and growth. Drawing from her corporate experience, Elizabeth values the collaborative spirit and seeks to replicate that supportive environment within her initiative. Through this mastermind group, Elizabeth aims to assist women entrepreneurs in maximizing their potential and achieving ambitious goals.

As Elizabeth continues her mission to empower individuals and families through financial education, she remains committed to making a lasting impact. Her vision extends beyond financial literacy; it encompasses transforming mindsets, fostering resilience, and empowering women to unlock their full potential in building successful businesses.

Elizabeth Villarreal’s journey exemplifies the profound impact of dedicated advocacy in financial education. Through MonaLiza Consulting and her various initiatives, Elizabeth is empowering individuals to navigate life’s uncertainties, build secure futures, and leave lasting legacies of prosperity. Her story inspires us all to strive for financial empowerment and resilience, regardless of our backgrounds or circumstances.