Today we’d like to introduce you to Elena Navarro Castro.
Hi Elena, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I am originally from San Bruno, California. Growing up in California is definitely very different from growing up in Houston. I moved to Houston before I was 16 years old so I’ve spent quite some time here. Once I moved here it was hard to adjust. I was the new girl from California and for some reason, I was treated differently. I guess now I understand why. My whole life I felt like I was destined to do more and try to make a difference with things that come my way. I was never shy to express that and I believe that’s what got me to my current place in life. It’s important to seek opportunities and to take them; even if they do not work out in the end.
Just like anyone else; I’ve struggled to achieve certain goals. School was hard for me. I wasn’t the popular girl, didn’t have the greatest grades or had a Mercedes to drive to school. Instead, I was the girl who laid low most of high school and kept to myself. In a way that motivated me to become someone who can stand out and voice her voice. While working as a preschool teacher; I started to seek modeling opportunities and any opportunity that would help me grow confidently. I was able to get a real opportunity to model for a clothing brand. It was exciting and felt great to see myself on the website. That gave me an even bigger push to try new things and expand my way of thinking.
Once Covid-19 got serious modeling did change but it didn’t change my drive. With the little money I had and with the help of my mom; we started a small jewelry business. Daly’s Jewels are all created by hand and designed by us. Although it wasn’t a big success, it made us happy to see customers wear our pieces. From there I taught myself marketing and how to connect with people through social media. In the process of that I taught myself more about the beauty industry and decided that was going to be my new project. NC Cosmetics coming…..when I have it more figured out. Fast forwarding to 2020, I got the chance to obtain my real estate license and now I’m working with a top producing company; Compean Group. From this opportunity, I was able to learn more about real estate, marketing, social media and how to better connect with people.
Looking back, I wouldn’t change anything. I was supposed to go through the hardships, the mental roller-coasters and criticism from others. My advice is to never listen to negativity and to fully believe you can achieve your goals.
I am not done though, I am only getting started!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t been a smooth road. There’s a lot of personal stuff I had to go through growing up. I was studying to be a plastic surgeon when I realized I wasn’t interested in going to school for 8+ years. Realizing that really brought me down because it made me feel lost. I was really broke; I had spent a lot of money on college and college supplies. My parents are divorced so I felt like I had to live up to two different visions. I felt like I failed my parents but I accepted it for what it is and continued to search for opportunities.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’ve tried many ways to make money and to make a name for myself. Getting into real estate, most specifically joining the Compean Group will get me there. I do a little bit of everything here. I go to appointments, tour houses, help organize community events, online work, create marketing flyers, help manage social media accounts and more! I’d like to specialize in marketing, business markup and working as a real estate agent. Outside of real estate I hope to specialize in cosmetics/beauty industry. Around the office I think I’m known for being the youngest here, the loudest and down to try new things. I’m proud of my confidence and how far I’ve come in and outside of my career. What sets me apart is how I think. I am very open to new ideas, new styles and new approaches. Also, my experience with other lines of work; such as modeling and teaching.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Do your research. Never stop looking and always ask. No matter what response you get, always ask. Surround yourself with people who want to achieve their goals as well.
Contact Info:
- Email: elena@thecompeangroup.com
- Website: https://www.thecompeangroup.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elenasnc/
