Leslie Alvarez’s life is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and an unbreakable entrepreneurial spirit. From growing up in inner-city Houston to navigating single parenthood and financial struggles, she has continuously found innovative ways to push forward. Her book, When Life Gives You Lemons, Make Tamales, encapsulates her journey of perseverance, independence, and determination to provide a better life for her children.
Overcoming a Challenging Childhood
Leslie was raised in a culturally diverse yet challenging environment. Her parents divorced when she was five, and she was primarily raised by her grandmother. Growing up in a Hispanic neighborhood without speaking Spanish made her feel like an outsider. Additionally, being raised in a strict religious household limited her interactions with people outside her faith, reinforcing her sense of isolation.
Despite these challenges, Leslie was naturally independent. Her entrepreneurial spirit surfaced at a young age when she sold homemade oatmeal cookies to save up for a bicycle. This early experience laid the foundation for her future as a problem-solver and businesswoman.
The Hustle Mentality: Making Ends Meet
After marrying young and having her first child at 20, Leslie worked tirelessly in property management while juggling motherhood. However, life took an unexpected turn when her husband left her while she was five months pregnant with their second child. Suddenly, she found herself without an income and had to figure out how to survive.
That’s when her former mother-in-law stepped in with a simple but powerful lesson—how to make and sell Mexican tamales. With just $100 worth of ingredients, Leslie turned tamale-making into a reliable side hustle. Selling tamales not only provided for her family but also became a financial lifeline whenever she needed extra income for her kids’ school trips, sports fees, or holiday expenses.
Navigating Single Parenthood and Career Growth
Balancing work and single parenthood was no easy task. Leslie often worked late hours, relying on daycare and family support to help with her children. Despite the struggles, she prioritized their well-being and ensured they had the opportunities she never did, from playing sports to attending college.
Determined to advance in her career, Leslie focused on professional certifications rather than a traditional college degree. She climbed the ranks in community management, strategically making career moves to increase her salary and provide stability for her children.
Later, she returned to college while working full-time, enrolling in an 18-credit-hour course load alongside her daughter, who was starting her freshman year. Her incredible work ethic set a powerful example for her children, showing them that perseverance and education could change lives.
Teaching the Next Generation to Hustle
Leslie instilled an entrepreneurial mindset in her children. Her son, inspired by her example, started his own business flipping sneakers, turning a small investment into a profitable venture. Her daughter also learned to make and sell cookies to pay for school expenses.
By leading with action rather than just words, Leslie demonstrated that financial independence is attainable with creativity, resourcefulness, and hustle.
Launching a Business: Community Ace
After years of working in property management, Leslie took a bold step and launched her own company, Community Ace, a full-service management and consulting firm. Within just six months, the business secured multiple contracts and hired its first full-time employee.
Leslie’s ability to transform challenges into opportunities continues to fuel her success. Her business, which she runs alongside her son, is yet another testament to her relentless drive.
Key Takeaways from Leslie Alvarez’s Journey
- Resourcefulness Leads to Opportunity – Creativity and hustle can open doors, even in the toughest situations.
- Resilience is Built Through Experience – Life’s hardships shape stronger, more adaptable individuals.
- Success is More Than Money – A fulfilling life is about passion, purpose, and perseverance.
- Sobriety and Discipline Create Growth – Removing distractions and focusing on personal growth leads to lasting success.
- Teach the Next Generation to Hustle – Leading by example ensures that children develop a strong work ethic.
Leslie Alvarez’s story is a powerful reminder that success isn’t about luck—it’s about grit, determination, and the willingness to create your own opportunities. Whether through making tamales, flipping sneakers, or launching a business, she has consistently found ways to rise above challenges.
To learn more, check out her book, When Life Gives You Lemons, Make Tamales, and keep an eye out for her upcoming release, Hot Mess Express: Ditch the Drama, Conquer Life’s Curveballs, and Reclaim Your Life After Loss.
For consulting and management services, visit Community Ace.
