Friday Interview: Rebeca Riofrio

Rebeca Riofrio is a very impressive woman. She is the CEO of Art in Fusion TV, which aim is to show the link between business and art. I had the pleasure of meeting her this week.

What sparked the idea for Art in Fusion?

Seeing the necessity among young artists, who mostly end up giving up on their dreams due to lack of funding to support their craft we decided to create a platform to teach them a few basic business steps for success . We create opportunities for amazing talent that is out there and would otherwise be neglected – thereafter we also develop media platforms for business and video production company.

 Has it been difficult balancing art and business at the same time?

This factor can be challenging as many times the creativity can be limited by given budgets. If you know how to plan ahead this wouldn’t be a major problem but is challenging but not impossible.

Did your experience working with Martha Gellhorn have any impact on your career path?

Certainly – Martha Gellhorn ‘to the people that don’t know’ is today considered one of the greatest war correspondents of the 20th century –  her voice is something i got deep inside me – she is most definitely a great example and inspiration in my life.  During the 4 years that I worked for her I had the opportunity to talk to Nelson Mandela – meet the Clintons – Rockefellers – Shakespeare’s relatives, amazing writers and correspondences  – such experiences were a huge impact in my life.

Do you think it is difficult to start a business in London?

I  think that all is relative to your own vision and goals. London is a great place to make you a good future.

What are you top 3 tips for someone who want to start their own business today?

If you have an idea for a business you feel passionate about, my advice would be that before putting all your eggs in one basket to do a self-evaluation. Be truthful and ask yourself questions like, if you would be able to do this every day 24/7? Are you able to handle constructive (and sometimes hurtful) criticism?  Do you have the skills and abilities to convert this passion to a successful business, and if not, how will you obtain them? Also, think about how you will react to the possibilities of changing systems and concepts around such business? Finally check your finances and see how feasible it is for you to go all the way in regards to time and monetary investment. This is my pragmatic but straightforward advice and I encourage you to follow your guts and incorporate your passion in whatever you do.

Youtube : Art in Fusion TV
LinkedIn: Rebeca Riofrio 
Facebook: ART IN FUSION TV 
Facebook: REBECA RIOFRIO (public figure)
Twitter: @RebecaRiofrio
Instagram: @rebecariofrio_artinfusiontv

Rebeca is one of the mentors at the Migrant Business Accelerator.
If you wish to help migrants become entrepreneurs and change their lives for the better, get in touch with This Foreigner Can Social Enterprise.