On April 9th, I had the pleasure of attending #Ad2TheConvo: Hustlers Panel & Networking at RichesArt Gallery in East Austin — an event hosted by Ad 2 Austin and sponsored by Spotter. I walked in expecting a solid panel discussion and some casual networking. I walked out feeling deeply inspired, more connected to the local creative scene, and affirmed in my own journey as a communications professional exploring new ground.
The night centered on a panel of four women entrepreneurs — all self-made, all proudly tied to their culture, and all navigating the highs and lows of side-hustling in Austin. Panelists included Julia Wezio, co-founder of ATX Grand Prix Club; Karla Martinez, founder of Betty Bobble; Kassandra Chapa, founder of Firulais Co.; and Marisa Garza, founder of KEFI by MG. Each of these women shared the story of how they launched their ventures, what keeps them motivated, and how their personal and cultural identities are woven into the fabric of their brands.
One of the strongest themes of the night was representation — not just as a buzzword, but as a real and necessary act of visibility. Several panelists spoke candidly about the importance of seeing other women of color in spaces that historically haven’t reflected their lived experiences. Whether it was access to startup capital, building a client base, or even being taken seriously in creative and business communities, these women emphasized that the hustle isn’t just about business. It’s about making space — for yourself, for your community, and for the next generation of creators and entrepreneurs.
What I appreciated most was the authenticity and vulnerability in the room. These weren’t curated soundbites or polished PR statements — they were real stories of trial and error, of adapting on the fly, and of staying grounded in a deeper purpose. From working full-time jobs while building businesses on the side, to facing burnout and finding new paths forward, the panelists reminded us that the hustle is human. Their journeys aren’t linear, and neither is success — a sentiment that felt particularly encouraging as I reflect on my own career pivot.
As someone with a background in sustainability and public engagement, I’ve been carving a new path in the marketing and communications world — one that’s more aligned with my values, my voice, and the communities I want to serve. Part of that journey means reconnecting with Austin’s creative ecosystem and showing up in spaces like this one. The more I engage with local events and professional groups like Ad 2 Austin, the more I realize how much value there is in community — not just for opportunities or networking, but for real conversation, collaboration, and mutual growth.
Another standout aspect of the event was the energy in the room — a mix of creative professionals, marketers, designers, and founders, all gathered with curiosity and openness. Between the panel and networking sessions, I had the chance to connect with people at various stages of their professional journeys, from recent grads to seasoned creatives. Conversations flowed easily — not just about work, but about shared values, side projects, dreams, and the reality of navigating the ever-changing world of entrepreneurship and communication. That sense of camaraderie is something I’ve missed and deeply appreciated.
Events like this serve as powerful reminders of the importance of local, grassroots storytelling — the kind that doesn’t always make headlines but builds strong, authentic connections where it counts. Whether it’s a customized style accessories, a culturally rooted pet products, or a racing club that’s reimagining accessibility in motorsports, the stories shared on this panel reflected the diversity, resilience, and innovation that define Austin’s creative hustle.
A heartfelt thanks to Ad 2 Austin for curating such an intentional and inspiring space, and to Spotter for sponsoring and supporting emerging voices in the community. As I continue exploring what’s next for me — whether through freelance work, finding a traditional job, or launching my own marketing studio — I’m reminded that showing up, staying curious, and building real relationships will always be part of the process.
If you’re in the marketing, comms, or creative industries and haven’t yet tapped into Austin’s local professional organization chapters and networking spaces, I highly recommend getting involved. There’s so much talent here, and even more heart behind the work being done.
