Laura Renata Rubio grew up in a single-mom household, where she learned the value of hard work and dedication. But traditional jobs weren’t for her—she even got fired from her first job at age 14 by her own mom. That’s when she realized she had two choices: become self-employed or risk being homeless. She wisely chose the former.

Her journey began with support from Mi Casa Resource Center, a nonprofit in Denver that empowers entrepreneurs. After taking a business class at Mi Casa, Laura gained the knowledge and confidence to pursue her dream. With her new skills and a $400 investment, she set out to create something meaningful.

When she first arrived in Taxco, Mexico, Laura believed her silver jewelry investment would open doors. But in a town where soap operas and soccer take precedence, she quickly learned she had to earn her place. She returned to Denver with her small collection, sold most of it, reinvested, and—most importantly—built lifelong relationships with artisan families.

More than 20 years later, those same families are now passing down their silversmithing skills to the next generation—continuing a tradition of creativity, quality, and craftsmanship.