Helena Reis
Helena Reis is a Life & Empowerment Coach, Facilitator, HR Business Advisor, Founder & CEO of Rising Numbers based in Lisbon, originally from Madeira Island.
She further tells us that, “With a strong business background, I have always been driven to pursue my entrepreneurial dreams. I am passionate about learning and constantly seek out new opportunities to expand my knowledge and skills. I find purpose in all the work I do, believing that every endeavour has the potential to make a positive impact. Living in Lisbon allows me to be part of a vibrant and dynamic business community, where I can connect with like-minded individuals who share my drive and enthusiasm.”
What were your initial years of growing up like? Tell us about your life before starting your corporate journey/venture/initiative.
Throughout my life, I have always been driven and determined to create a better future for myself. I have hustled in various ways, constantly seeking opportunities to improve my circumstances and achieve my goals.
I have worked in different areas, embracing diverse experiences that have shaped me into a well-rounded individual. These experiences have not only provided me with valuable skills but also taught me important life lessons. I believe that the school of life has been my greatest teacher, and I have always been eager to learn and grow from every situation.
At one point, I had the opportunity to live in Barcelona, which expanded my horizons and allowed me to immerse myself in a new culture. This experience further fuelled my desire to explore and embrace new opportunities.
Rather than relying solely on formal education, I have embraced the concept of being a self-made entrepreneur. I have embraced my passions and taken risks to create my own path to success. Through determination, hard work, and a continuous hunger for knowledge, I have managed to carve my own “niche” and achieve my goals.
Overall, my background is a testament to my resilience, adaptability, and relentless pursuit of personal and professional growth. I have overcome challenges and thrived in various situations, shaping me into the person I am today.
Every industry that is now a large-scale, top-notch business once started as a small idea in the minds of entrepreneurs. What was that idea or motivation that made you start your business /initiative? What motivated you within to say YES, go for it!”
The spark that ignited the idea for starting my business/initiative came from a deep-seated passion for making a meaningful difference in a field I deeply care about. I was driven by the desire to address an unmet need or solve a persistent problem that I observed was affecting myself and many people. This problem tugged at my heartstrings and ignited a fire within me, pushing me to think beyond conventional solutions.
The motivation to say “YES, go for it!” stemmed from a combination of personal conviction and the realization that if I didn’t take the initiative, perhaps no one would. I saw a gap that I could fill with my unique skills, knowledge, and passion. The thought of bringing a positive change and the potential to improve lives or processes was thrilling. It was this blend of personal passion and the desire to make an impact that convinced me to embark on this journey.
Furthermore, I found motivation in the stories of those who had faced similar challenges and succeeded. Their journeys inspired me, showing me that with determination, hard work, and a clear vision, it’s possible to turn an idea into reality. The prospect of breaking my own barriers, navigating the social patterns and building new ways to serve others, is something that will always reflect my values and vision, and that was incredibly enticing.
In essence, my decision was fuelled by a mix of personal passions, a desire to fill a gap in my own growth experience, so I became the person I did not have while figuring this intricate and beautiful journey of life.
Embarking on this venture was my way of bringing a vision to life that could potentially enrich other lives and contribute to a broader change. It was a call to action that I felt deeply within, compelling me to step forward and pursue this path.
Would you like to share with our young budding women entrepreneurs the change you would like to see in the world if given an opportunity?
The change I yearn to see in the world, especially if given an opportunity to influence it, revolves around creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in business. It’s a vision that extends beyond just breaking the glass ceiling; it involves reshaping the entire ecosystem to foster diversity, equity, and empowerment for women in every aspect of entrepreneurship.
I envision a world where women have equal access to resources, funding, mentorship, and networks that are fundamental to launching and scaling a business. Despite progress, there’s a significant gap in venture capital funding between male and female founders. I dream of a time when investment decisions are made based on the merit of the business idea and its potential impact, not the gender of the person presenting it.
To all the young budding women entrepreneurs, I say: Your voice, your ideas, and your leadership have the power to shape a new world. Remember, the change we wish to see begins with the steps we take today. No matter how big or small, you can make a change everyday.
What’s the most important thing you have learned in your personal life and professional journey? What is your personal motto in life?
The most important lesson I’ve learned in both my personal life and professional journey is the profound truth that nothing is permanent. This realization, simple yet profound, has been a guiding light through the ups and downs, successes and failures, joys and sorrows that have marked my path.
My personal motto in life, which encapsulates this lesson, is: “Embrace change, for it is the only constant.” This motto reminds me to stay open, flexible, and ready to adapt to whatever life throws my way. It encourages me to view change not as a threat but as an opportunity for growth, learning, and new beginnings.
The realization that nothing is permanent is liberating. It teaches us to live more fully, love more deeply, and appreciate the transient beauty of life with all its twists and turns. It is a reminder to not get too attached to the current state of affairs but to remain fluid, embracing the journey of continuous transformation that life is.
With your grit and determination, you are making a considerable impact, breaking through, and serving as role models for many budding entrepreneurs. What would you want to say to our young women leaders/audience reading this?
Become the person you always wanted to have in your life. Be your own role model first!