Community Game Changer
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We are proud to introduce our new Community Spotlight Series: GAME CHANGER. This series will feature entrepreneurs, community champions and trailblazers dedicated to making Kern County great.
Joseph Hernandez
Owner | INMOTION
How long have you been in business?
I’ve been in business since 2004.
How/Why did you start your business/career?
When I was in my twenties I had my first opportunity to film a wedding. I was excited about this opportunity. I felt so prepared but on the day that I showed up it turned out I had mixed up the days and showed up on the wrong date. The wedding was the next day which was the worst news for me since I had to be on a plane the very next morning so there was no way I could film that wedding myself. I ended up asking my brother to take my place and he came through. Ultimately the bride was content about what I ended up creating with the material my brother captured but I could tell she wasn’t fully satisfied and that’s when the spark happened for me. From that day on I was determined to improve every part of the clients journey with me.
Why did you choose to become a member of KCHCC?
As a small business owner, you have to be willing to try new things—and that’s exactly why I joined KCHCC. I wanted to see what it was all about and explore how it might benefit my business. I’m glad I did. It’s opened up new connections, opportunities, and a real sense of community that’s been both encouraging and valuable.
What advice do you have for entrepreneurs starting their careers in Kern County?
Start by showing up. There’s a strong sense of community here in Kern County, and people genuinely want to support local businesses but you have to put yourself out there. Go to networking events, build relationships, and be consistent with your work. Don’t wait for all the lights to turn green before you begin. Start with what you have, stay open to learning, and lean into the people and resources around you. Opportunities tend to come to those who stay visible and engaged.
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We are proud to introduce our new Community Spotlight Series: GAME CHANGER. This series will feature entrepreneurs, community champions and trailblazers dedicated to making Kern County great.
NaTesha “T” Johnson
Executive Director, Entrepreneurship & Workforce Development
Bakersfield College Launchpad
How long have you been in business/in position?
Three years in position and over 25 years in industry
How/Why did you start your business/career?
I didn’t plan on going into workforce development and entrepreneurship—it kind of just happened. My background is in public administration, so I’ve always known I wanted to work with and for the community. But I fell in love with entrepreneurship when I started noticing businesses that should have been thriving struggle or fail. I couldn’t help but ask: Why? What’s missing? Where are the gaps? That curiosity sparked something in me. I dove into understanding entrepreneurial support—what truly helps a business grow and succeed. I realized that with the right guidance and resources, business owners don’t have to become just another statistic. Seeing someone’s dream come to life and watching their capacity grow—it’s powerful. It’s meaningful. And for me, it’s incredibly rewarding to be part of that journey every single day.
What advice, and from who, did you receive regarding business and your career that you still reflect upon today?
The best advice I’ve ever received—whether in life, business, or my career—came from my mother, and it still guides me to this day: You only need one yes.
You may face a thousand no’s along the way, but that one yes can open doors wide enough to outweigh them all. I’ve come to understand that a “no” isn’t always a rejection—it can be a redirection, or even a form of protection. So I’ve learned to accept the no’s as “not right now,” and to keep pushing forward. Because when that yes finally comes? That’s when everything changes. And when it does, I’m ready to take on the world.
How has being involved with KCHCC helped shape your business/business goals?
The Launchpad has maintained a longstanding partnership with the Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and together, we’ve built a force that’s truly impactful. This collaboration has not only shaped how we approach business but has also influenced how we serve our community as a whole.
Through our involvement with the Chamber, we’ve been able to look beyond Bakersfield and into our rural communities—identifying their unique needs, supporting their goals, and helping local businesses build real capacity.
As a result of this powerful partnership, we’re proud to announce that beginning this fall, we will offer a Money Matters workshop at our Arvin campus, held monthly and designed specifically for Spanish-speaking business owners. This is just one example of how collaboration leads to meaningful, community-driven impact.We’re especially proud to participate in the Chamber’s business entrepreneurship courses, where we present the technical assistance resources offered through Bakersfield College. This collaboration has become what we like to call our “tag team relationship”—we support one another, we build together, and we grow stronger together. I’m especially grateful to President and CEO Jay Tamsi for his unwavering support and partnership with the Bakersfield College Launchpad.
What advice do you have for entrepreneurs starting their businesses/careers in Kern County?
My advice to any entrepreneur starting a business or career in Kern County is this: take advantage of every opportunity and resource available to you—not just those tied to grants or funding. Too often, I see people overlook valuable programs simply because they’re not offering immediate financial support. But some of the most impactful growth comes from business development, mentorship, and professional training. These experiences build your foundation, sharpen your skills, and prepare you for long-term success. So my biggest piece of advice? Absorb everything. Take in all the knowledge and technical assistance you can, no matter where it comes from. It may not seem essential now, but you’ll be grateful for it when it’s time to take your business to the next level.
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We are proud to introduce our new Community Spotlight Series: GAME CHANGER. This series will feature entrepreneurs, community champions and trailblazers dedicated to making Kern County great.
Juan Villalobos
AltaOne Federal Credit Union | Branch Manager
How long have you been in your current position?
My career began at 19, but it really started long before that, as a child translating for my parents during their banking transactions. Experiencing the reliance of Spanish-speaking parents on their children for such vital information sparked a desire in me. I wanted to ensure that Spanish speakers could understand critical financial matters.
When did you start your entrepreneurship of Night Owl Creations J | Villalobos Events LLC?
I started my business in 2020, right in the middle of COVID. Even though the world was in isolation, it felt more important than ever to celebrate milestones. What began as drive-by balloon setups has grown into a solid business dedicated to making every celebration unforgettable.
What advice, and from who, did you receive regarding business and your career that you still reflect upon today?
The best advice I ever received came from my father. He always said, ‘Échale ganas, porque no hay de otra.’ It means, ‘Give it your all, because there’s no other way.’
Why did you choose to become a diplomat of KCHCC?
I chose to become a diplomat because I deeply believe in the mission and vision of the Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Now, I not only get to experience their incredible events but also contribute by lending a helping hand. It’s a way for me to actively support and promote the values I believe in.
What advice do you have for entrepreneurs starting their businesses/careers in Kern County?
Starting something new can be scary, but have to believe in yourself and just go for it. Be willing to take risks and try things that others haven’t, or even revisit old ideas. Joining the Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is a great way to spread the word about your business or brand, and you’ll also gain invaluable advice and support from other business owners and professionals. Échale ganas, y si se puede!
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We are proud to introduce our new Community Spotlight Series: GAME CHANGER. This series will feature entrepreneurs, community champions and trailblazers dedicated to making Kern County great.
Romeo Agbalog
Senior Advisor to the Chancellor | Kern Community College District
How long have you been in business/in position?
My career in public service has spanned 26 years, 20 of which as an elected official, and includes local and state government, education, and nonprofit leadership experience.
How/Why did you start your business/career?
My career began by a combination of both accident and necessity. See, I became a father at a very young age. Just out of high school and in desperate need of a job, I learned that a local logistics company was hiring students for the summer. Eager to go to work, I applied, but discovered that I wasn’t qualified due to no longer being a student. Fatefully, the hiring manager saw something in me that I didn’t see in myself and held a spot open for me, so long as I enrolled back in school. This marked the beginning of my relationship with Bakersfield College, rural education, and the Kern Community College District. I enrolled at BC the same day and got the job, but I was nearly two weeks into the semester and the only course section that was still open was Political Science. This class would later lead to volunteer opportunities, internships, and later jobs in public service, opening doors that otherwise would not have been available to a young, single parent from a rural community.
What advice, and from whom, did you receive regarding business and your career that you still reflect upon today?
Some of my favorite quotes are as follows: “Many of life’s failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up,” Thomas Edison. “Never mistake activity for achievement,” John Wooden. “Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak out and remove all doubt,” Abraham Lincoln.
How has being involved with KCHCC helped shape your business/business goals?
It’s exciting to be part of an organization that is always looking for new and innovative ways to engage and educate its members and the community. There’s never enough hours in the day to do the things we always want to do, so it’s inspiring to be involved with organizations that you know are actively working to make a difference. It’s time well invested.
What advice do you have for entrepreneurs starting their businesses/careers in Kern County?
Some of my other words of advice either gained by experience or shared to me by friends and mentors are: 1) Tread lightly, you never know when the toes you step on today may be connected to the rear-end you may have to kiss tomorrow. 2) Everyone is blessed with tools in their toolbox. Never misuse your tools, it’s easy to damage and destroy, it’s always harder to build. Rather use your tools to build God’s kingdom. 3) Fear is the absence of faith. 4) Never promise what you can’t deliver and always deliver more than you promised. 5) In all that you do, go out to spread the gospel, and when necessary use words. 6) Leadership is about building people up, not tearing them down. It’s about helping others achieve more than they ever could on their own.
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We are proud to introduce our new Community Spotlight Series: GAME CHANGER. This series will feature entrepreneurs, community champions and trailblazers dedicated to making Kern County great.
Nikka Cabello
Brokerage Specialist
Cushman & Wakefield
How long have you been in business/in position?
I’ve been with Cushman & Wakefield for 10.5 years. In addition to my career, I’ve been the KCHCC Diplomat Co-Chair for 5 years, Volunteer Chair for the Latino Food Festival Menudo and Pozole Cook-Off and Dia de los Muertos for 2 years, and have been on the Philippine Weekend, Inc. committee for 20+ years.
How/Why did you start your business/career?
I started my career by chance—I didn’t plan to go into the commercial real estate field, but once I got my foot in the door, I quickly realized how much I enjoy it. I love the fast-paced nature of the industry and being able to support my team of industrial brokers by crafting marketing materials, helping them meet deadlines, and ultimately reach their revenue goals.
What advice, and from who, did you receive regarding business and your career that you still reflect upon today?
One piece of personal advice from a mentor and close friend that’s always stuck with me was to not let people’s comments or opinions get to me, to develop thick skin. That mindset reminds me not to take things personally, even when challenges come up, and that you simply can’t make everyone happy, and that’s okay.
Why did you choose to become a member of KCHCC?
I became a member because I wanted to be a part of an organization that actively supports local businesses, especially those in underserved communities. They offer a welcoming environment where professionals and individuals from all backgrounds can connect, collaborate, and grow together.
Their mission aligns with my values and I knew that being involved would give me access to resources and a network of professionals and individuals all working toward common goals.
What advice do you have for entrepreneurs starting their businesses/careers in Kern County?
Don’t be afraid to start small, but think big. Be consistent, stay teachable, and surround yourself with people who challenge and inspire you. Kern County has a strong network of support—you just have to tap into it. Utilize local organizations like KCHCC, show up to community events, and never stop learning.
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We are proud to introduce our new Community Spotlight Series: GAME CHANGER. This series will feature entrepreneurs, community champions and trailblazers dedicated to making Kern County great.
Juan David Quintana
Owner | Aura Lounge
How/Why did you start your business/career?
Since I was young I have always looked up to my dad. He is a successful entrepreneur which inspired me to have an interest in business. Then in my early 20s I began to mirror him in his businesses and try to learn by being more hands on. Then when the opportunity presented itself for me to run my own business I knew I was confident in what I wanted to do and was adequately prepared.
What advice, and from who, did you receive regarding business and your career that you still reflect upon today?
I took many valuable pieces of advice growing up not only from my dad but from many other business owners who I have built strong and positive relationships with. One of the most valuable pieces of advice I’ve learned is that “If you’re going to do something, do it with everything you’ve got.”
How has KCHCC networking events increased visibility or have helped establish new connections in the community?
KCHCC networking events have played a huge role in increasing my visibility in the community and creating new business connections. KCHCC helps you interact with people you wouldn’t normally talk to in your day-to-day life and gives your an opportunity to make new relationships that can be assets to you and your business.
Why did you choose to become a member of KCHCC?
I chose to become a member of KCHCC because I knew they had a community full of very positive and successful individuals. I also chose to become a member because I felt like I can be an asset to that community and build strong and valuable relationships.
What advice do you have for entrepreneurs starting their businesses/careers in Kern County?
My advice to entrepreneurs starting their business would obviously have to be “If you’re going to do something, do it with everything you’ve got!” I also would say, “Don’t give up.”
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We are proud to introduce our new Community Spotlight Series: GAME CHANGER. This series will feature entrepreneurs, community champions and trailblazers dedicated to making Kern County great.
Tim Terrio
Founder/President
TERRIO Physical Therapy, Integrate 3 P, Health Through Wholeness/AdaptiSport/The DREAMS Project,
Terrio Properties, Terrio LiveWell, League of Dreams
How/Why did you start your business/career?
My career started as a Certified Athletic Trainer for the LA Dodgers Minor Leagues, which brought me to Bakersfield in 1989. I decided to leave professional baseball to get my Physical Therapy Degree. In 1993 I moved back to Bakersfield at a PT. After working for a large corporation and a locally owned PT company, I started TERRIO Therapy in 1998 with the belief “There has to be a better way!” of doing this. My initial goal was to replace my salary as a PT. From one location and 1 employee TERRIO continued to grow and diversify, adding clinics, contracts and services. TERRIO is now a network of 11 outpatient clinics and multiple contracts with 260+ employees. Realizing the need for professional management for the company, I hired Ken Beurmann 12 years ago to oversee operations and finance. One of the best decisions I’ve made, freed me up to begin exploring other interests. I realized that I am a visionary (idea guy) but needed an implementer to make my visions a reality. I now have 2 mastermind groups of business executives, launched a new leadership program, and have created a multi-tier entrepreneur program (The DREAMS Project that will roll out this year). I’m also in the planning phase of opening AdaptiSport, Bakersfield’s first non-profit wellness center for adults with disabilities.
What advice, and from who, did you receive regarding business and your career that you still reflect upon today?
When I first opened TERRIO, I knew I was a really good PT but knew nothing about business, so I created an advisory board of businesspeople to help me learn and to navigate the journey. In 2005, I was extended the opportunity to join YPO, Young Presidents Organization. This was a major pivot point, as I learned from larger businesses in diverse industries how they looked at scaling. Although, I’m no longer involved in YPO, I continue to meet regularly with a small group of former members to develop my business skills. Finding a diverse group of business leaders is invaluable to continued growth and success.
Why did you choose to become a member of KCHCC?
Over the years, I watched the KCHCC grow and develop. I love the energy and enthusiasm they bring to the community. We share a passion for inclusion and diversity. A true representation of the community we live in! How can you not want to be part of that?!?
What advice do you have for entrepreneurs starting their businesses/careers in Kern County?
Start with your ‘why’ (purpose) and have a clear understanding of your core values, strengths and weaknesses. Always make sure that you stay true to your purpose and values. Learn from those who’ve been there before, surround yourself with great people who challenge you and become a lifelong learner. Hire people that align with your purpose, values and mission. All of these will help overcome the adversity and obstacles that will be part of the journey. It is also vital to connect with other businesses and business owners in a spirit of cooperation, provide value and never take more than you give. Being in business can be difficult, but with the right support systems can be very rewarding.
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We are proud to introduce our new Community Spotlight Series: GAME CHANGER. This series will feature entrepreneurs, community champions and trailblazers dedicated to making Kern County great.
Yessenia Ramirez
Vice President; Business Banking Relationship Manager
Bank of America
How long have you been in business/in your position?
I began my professional career in 2011, shortly after graduating from UC Santa Cruz as the first in my family to attend college. It wasn’t just the start of a job — it was the start of a promise: to open doors, not just for myself, but for others like me. Today, as a Business Banking Relationship Manager, I have the privilege of serving business owners and entrepreneurs every day — not just with financial tools, but with advocacy, trust, and a true understanding of their journey. It’s been 14 years, and my passion continues to grow. Titles may change, but my mission never has.
What advice, and from whom, did you receive regarding business and your career that you still reflect upon today?
The best advice I’ve ever received came from my mother. Growing up, I would often hear her say: “Haz todo con dignidad, aunque nadie lo vea.” It means: Do everything with dignity, even when no one’s watching.
That stayed with me. In a world that often rewards loudness or shortcuts, her words reminded me that integrity is quiet, but powerful. That how you do things matters just as much as what you do. And that even when no one claps — your work still speaks for you.
It’s a mindset I carry into every client conversation, every decision, and every challenge I face. Because dignity doesn’t need an audience… it just needs heart.
Why did you choose to become a member of KCHCC?
I became a member of KCHCC because I saw more than just a chamber — I saw a community. A space where professionals from diverse industries, cultures, and backgrounds come together with a shared purpose: to support, uplift, and grow alongside one another.
While rooted in Hispanic values and culture, the Chamber is incredibly welcoming and inclusive. The moment I walked into my first event, I felt the energy: warm, genuine, and full of possibility. I’ve never left a meeting without learning something new or feeling reenergized by the people in the room.
As someone who believes deeply in service and representation, I knew I wanted to be part of something that not only empowers Latino voices, but also creates space for meaningful collaboration across our entire community. KCHCC has given me the opportunity to connect, to serve, and to belong — in a space that truly feels like home.
What advice do you have for entrepreneurs starting their businesses/careers in Kern County?
Believe in your voice — even when it shakes. Starting a business or stepping into a new career can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re paving your own way. But if you lead with purpose, stay curious, and surround yourself with community, you won’t walk alone. In Kern County, there’s space for dreamers, builders, and innovators. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, share your story, or take up space. There’s so much power in simply showing up.
And most of all: Échale ganas.
Even on the hard days.
Especially on the hard days.
You never know who’s watching you and silently thinking: “If they can… maybe I can too.”
That’s why I do what I do — not just as a Business Banker, but as someone who truly believes in the people behind the ideas.
Let’s build something together.
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We are proud to introduce our new Community Spotlight Series: GAME CHANGER. This series will feature entrepreneurs, community champions and trailblazers dedicated to making Kern County great.
We are proud to introduce our new Community Spotlight Series: GAME CHANGER. This series will feature entrepreneurs, community champions and trailblazers dedicated to making Kern County great.
Anaiza Prado
Communications and Community Engagement Specialist
Clinica Sierra Vista
How long have you been in business/in position?
I’ve been involved in community engagement since 2017, starting as a volunteer in my hometown of Arvin, CA. Today, I continue serving communities close to my heart across Kern County as a Communications and Community Engagement Specialist at Clinica Sierra Vista.
How/Why did you start your business/career?
My career in community engagement began as a volunteer. I’ve always had a passion for giving back and bringing opportunities to communities that otherwise wouldn’t be available. I was invited to get involved by the late Mayor of Arvin, Olivia Trujillo, during her time with the local Chamber of Commerce. One of the highlights of my early work was helping organize the City of Arvin’s first-ever pumpkin patch event.
What advice, and from who, did you receive regarding business and your career that you still reflect upon today?
Someone I still turn to for advice and guidance is my former supervisor, Jake Slayton, CEO of Goodwill Industries. He taught me the importance of giving back, serving others, and leading with compassion in everything I do.
Why did you choose to become a member of KCHCC?
I chose to become a part of KCHCC to grow partnerships with local organizations and advocates for health equity in our local community.
What advice do you have for entrepreneurs starting their businesses/careers in Kern County?
Be patient and stay focused on your goals. Remain committed even when progress feels slow or invisible. Remember the people you can turn to for advice, guidance, or a simple, reassuring conversation that reminds you everything will be okay. Never stop learning from those around you, and always embrace the timeless truth of staying humble and true to yourself.
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We are proud to introduce our new Community Spotlight Series: GAME CHANGER. This series will feature entrepreneurs, community champions and trailblazers dedicated to making Kern County great.
Traco Matthews
Chief Health Equity Officer/Senior Pastor
Kern Family Health Care/Church of God Bakersfield
How/Why did you start your business/career?
My purpose in life is to champion the voices and needs of people who have typically been forgotten, ignored, or marginalized. Since moving to Bakersfield in 2005, I’ve worked in multiple sectors: insurance, oil, education, nonprofit, and healthcare. I’ve worked to elevate voices, making sure that as many people as possible are aware of how the decisions that impact them are being made, and affirming their right to weigh in on those decisions.
What advice, and from who, did you receive regarding business and your career that you still reflect upon today?
The best advice I’ve received is “You can be right, and you can be effective, but often it’s hard to be both at the same time!” That advice has helped me in my 24-year marriage, as a Senior Pastor, and it’s helped me to strike the right balance in my various career positions and advocacy work. I think about that concept 3-4 times a week, and often I’ll share that same advice with others who are facing challenges in their life work or business.
Why did you choose to become a member of KCHCC?
The work KCHCC does aligns with my heart and purpose. They bring stronger visibility, enhanced resources, and an incredible network to minority-owned businesses and community leaders. I’m proud to be a member of the chamber. Together, we can move mountains. And we do!
What advice do you have for entrepreneurs starting their businesses/careers in Kern County?
Get connected. Be likable. Build trusted relationships. Those are keys to success in Kern County. As my friends Morgan Clayton and Michale Bowers often say (paraphrased), “Folks do business with people they know, they like, and they trust!” I’ve discovered that to be true across sectors in Bakersfield, so entrepreneurs who want sustained success in this market would be smart to pay attention to that advice.
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We are proud to introduce our new Community Spotlight Series: GAME CHANGER. This series will feature entrepreneurs, community champions and trailblazers dedicated to making Kern County great.
Artisa Mae Moten
Founder & Clinical Director
Awakened Consulting Inc.
How long have you been in business/in position?
I’ve been in this field since 2013, when I answered God’s call to step into my purpose. Since then, I’ve been walking in alignment as a licensed clinician, helping individuals and communities heal, grow, and transform.
How/Why did you start your business/career?
In 2017, I surrendered to the vision He placed on my heart to serve people through mental health and holistic care. I saw how much healing was needed in our families, systems, and inner lives, and I knew I was being positioned to help lead that work. Awakened Consulting Inc. was created as a response to that calling.
What advice, and from who, did you receive regarding business and your career that you still reflect upon today?
A mentor once told me, “Your assignment is bigger than your comfort zone.” That reminder pushed me through fear, setbacks, and self-doubt. Every time I want to shrink or stay small, I remember that obedience to the calling is more important than comfort.
Why did you choose to become a member of KCHCC?
Wellness belongs at every table—including business. KCHCC creates space for connection, visibility, and collaborative impact. Representation matters—and so does intention.
What advice do you have for entrepreneurs starting their businesses/careers in Kern County?
Wellness isn’t optional—it’s the foundation. Neglect it, and both your business and your character risk being compromised along the way.
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We are proud to introduce our new Community Spotlight Series: GAME CHANGER. This series will feature entrepreneurs, community champions and trailblazers dedicated to making Kern County great.
Jorge Barrientos
Director of Marketing + Public Relations
Law Office of Chain | Cohn | Clark
How/Why did you start your business/career?
I moved into the marketing world after an 8-year career in news media. I love storytelling, and I now get to continue to share stories through legal marketing. In marketing, I have developed new skills, while also having business stability – Chain | Cohn | Clark today is in its 91st year of operation.
What advice, and from whom, did you receive regarding business and your career that you still reflect upon today?
Author Seth Godin said it best: “‘Do what you love’ is for amateurs, but ‘love what you do’ is the mantra for professionals.” That is, finding meaning in your work is vital. This kind of love fuels motivation, resilience, and creativity. It’s the difference between just showing up and truly engaging. It’s about doing things that align with your values and spark your curiosity and passion.
Why did you choose to become a member of KCHCC?
Chain | Cohn | Clark has been a longtime member of the Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce because we believe in supporting and standing with the hardworking people who make up our diverse community. As a law firm that proudly represents the everyday working man and woman in accident and injury cases, we see firsthand the importance of advocacy, access, and connection. Partnering with KCHCC allows us to further that mission by amplifying voices, building trust, and giving back to the community we are honored to serve. Personally, I have served on the KCHCC Business Education Foundation board of directors for nearly 15 years as a way to give back to a community that has given me so much.
What advice do you have for entrepreneurs starting their businesses/careers in Kern County?
Immerse yourself in our community, whether it is through KCHCC’s programs, or other local organizations’ programs, or by giving back in your own meaningful way. And invest in your community through action, not just money. Ours is a very giving community, one unlike anywhere else I have seen. If you show up and support our community, it will show up and support you.
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We are proud to introduce our new Community Spotlight Series: GAME CHANGER. This series will feature entrepreneurs, community champions and trailblazers dedicated to making Kern County great.
Cepi Willingham
Program Director & Professional Business Connector
Power Hub Bakersfield
How long have you been in business/in position?
My journey as a business owner began in 2008, carried over into 2018 and then in 2024, when I launched Power Hub Bakersfield. I launched this organization with a clear purpose and passion — to empower business owners and aspiring leaders.
How/Why did you start your business/career?
Power Hub Bakersfield was born out of a desire to bridge gaps in business knowledge and to create a platform where learning, growth, and collaboration thrive. Thanks to the mentorship of my dear friend and accountability coach, Laraine ‘Lu’ Badilla, she helped me realize I could build a legacy — one rooted in giving back, sharing knowledge, and elevating others.
What advice, and from who, did you receive regarding business and your career that you still reflect upon today?
Laraine ‘Lu’ Badilla has whole heartedly believed in my strengths and her encouragement to lead with purpose continues to guide me. Her belief and wisdom remind me that authenticity, consistency, and a heart committed to service, are the keys to lasting impact.
Why did you choose to become involved with/a member of KCHCC?
The KCHCC has provided me with a space to share the spirit of community, connection, and opportunities. It’s an organization with resources who champion business professionals that are shaping Kern County’s future.
What advice do you have for entrepreneurs starting their businesses/careers in Kern County?
Believe in your vision, seek knowledge relentlessly, and surround yourself with a supportive network of professionals that believe and inspire you to do more than you could imagine – one that will push you and keep you accountable. Remember, success is a journey of continuous growth — and I encourage every person reading this to experience our mission of ‘Mastering Your Mind and Leveling Up Your Greatness. Our goal is to inspire, educate, and elevate our community, one leader at a time!
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We are proud to introduce our new Community Spotlight Series: GAME CHANGER. This series will feature entrepreneurs, community champions and trailblazers dedicated to making Kern County great.
Dr. Lori Gonzalez
Superintendent
Lamont Elementary School District
How long have you been in business/in position?
I am currently in my fourth year serving as Superintendent at Lamont and in my eighth year overall as a Superintendent. This year also marks my 34th year in the field of education. My career began in Fresno County and has also included leadership roles in Merced County before bringing me to Kern County, where I continue to serve with purpose, pride, and with heart!
How/Why did you start your business/career?
I began my journey in education because I simply wanted to become a teacher. That calling has since evolved into a lifelong passion for creating equitable, student-centered systems that empower learners, uplift families, and strengthen communities.
What advice, and from who, did you receive regarding business and your career that you still reflect upon today?
One piece of advice that continues to shape my leadership came from a mentor early in my career: building an educational ecosystem where every child thrives is not the work of one. It takes intentional collaboration with students, teachers, staff, leaders, and families. That collective vision is at the heart of how I lead and serve.
Why did you choose to become involved with/a member of KCHCC?
The Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce has been a valued partner because of its deep commitment to community, education, and cultural responsiveness. I appreciate how KCHCC uplifts the Hispanic voice, something that resonates deeply with our district’s mission and my personal belief in honoring the identities and strengths of the families we serve.
What advice do you have for entrepreneurs starting their businesses/careers in Kern County?
When I first came to Kern County, I made a deliberate effort to get involved with organizations like KCHCC. Doing so helped me build meaningful relationships, understand the unique needs of the community, and create partnerships that enhance our work. My advice to entrepreneurs is this: Get connected. Join local networks. Be visible and engaged. Building community is essential to building impact.
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We are proud to introduce our new Community Spotlight Series: GAME CHANGER. This series will feature entrepreneurs, community champions and trailblazers dedicated to making Kern County great.
Tamara Baker
Executive Director
Alzheimer’s Disease Association of Kern County, Inc. (ADAKC)
How long have you been in business/in position?
Since March 2024
How/Why did you start your business/career?
I joined ADAKC last year, seeing it as both a meaningful way to support my community and a personal way to honor my grandfather, who had Alzheimer’s. He was diagnosed when I was 10 and passed away when I was 22, so I witnessed firsthand the toll this disease takes—not just on the individual, but on the entire family. My grandmother was his primary caregiver and experienced severe burnout, something we work hard to prevent for families here at ADAKC.
What advice, and from who, did you receive regarding business and your career that you still reflect upon today?
When I worked at Kern Economic Development Corporation and found myself stressing, Richard Chapman shared a piece of advice that stuck with me: “The key to happiness begins with embracing what we can control and releasing what we can’t.” That wisdom has become my personal mantra during stressful times.
Why did you choose to become a member of KCHCC?
I’ve been involved in community work in Kern County for nearly 10 years, and KCHCC has consistently stood out as a supportive and impactful organization. Their strong reputation is well-earned. ADAKC is proud to be part of such a respected and engaged network of community leaders.
What advice do you have for entrepreneurs starting their businesses/careers in Kern County?
Make sure the foundation of your business is strong—especially when it comes to HR and financial management. Without that stability, everything else can quickly fall apart like a house of cards. Solid internal structures set the stage for long-term success. Also, everything is “figureoutable”… remember that when self-doubt starts to creep in.
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Mariachi San Marcos
Music, Arts and Entertainment
How long have you been in business/in position?
We have been a family owned business for 35 years.
How/Why did you start your business/career?
Starting a family mariachi was the dream of our parents Jose Laris (Father/Founder) and Teresa Laris (Mother/Founder). They raised 10 children and asked themselves, what do we do with these many kids in the house? Let’s share with them and teach them the music that we love, mariachi! Jose Laris was already a local musician and played the trumpet in a small town called Villa Hidalgo, Jalisco.
What advice, and from who, did you receive regarding business and your career that you still reflect upon today?
A member of Mariachi Vargas the best mariachi in the world that was also Jose Laris best friend told him, if you want to be the best, you have to do what the best groups do such as having Discipline, Integrity, Professionalism, attention to small details, respect, and most important quality! This message was routinely preached and is still preached with the members of Mariachi San Marcos.
Why did you choose to become a member of or active with KCHCC?
The Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce serves a big purpose and bigger role in our community. When COVID happened they stepped up and served the community, they also provide scholarships to students in Kern County, they hold authentic and cultural events, but most importantly the hispanic chamber embodies the same values and mindset that we hold in our group, excellence! How could we not be a part of that!
What advice do you have for entrepreneurs starting their businesses/careers in Kern County?
Find your talent/passion, hold yourself to high standards, and be unique, don’t copy others. Force others to copy you and/or serve as the model of excellence/expertise in your area!