Julieta Tello Went From Corporate Marketer to Sustainability Champion Who Creates Businesses with a Double Bottom Line

I am passionate about using business as a force for good. Through my two ventures, The Curious Beetle and Design Junkie, I strive to create positive impact both locally and globally.

At The Curious Beetle, we empower social entrepreneurs to align profit with purpose. We help them develop strong brands that not only succeed financially but also contribute to a better world. By donating a portion of our profits to Haciendo Camino, an Argentine NGO, we support their vital work in combating child hunger and malnutrition.

Design Junkie is dedicated to preserving traditional textile arts. We collaborate with weavers and artisans in developing countries, providing them with a platform to share their unique skills and cultural heritage. By raising awareness and supporting these artisans, we aim to ensure the survival of these invaluable traditions for generations to come.

How did you come up with your business idea? What inspired you?

Design Junkie: It all started with a trip to Morocco, after seeing the intense work of carpet weavers and colorful baskets. At that time I decided that these skillful artisans deserve more worldwide exposure. Their pieces are incredibly complex. So I started buying about 8 carpets and 20 baskets. I created a basic website and posting pictures of them on my Instagram account @design.junkie. I realized my audience wanted to help as well so I travelled to different countries to buy more curated pieces from artisans. 

What were you doing before this?  How did it prepare you for the entrepreneurial life?

After moving from a small town in Patagonia, Argentina to the bustle of Buenos Aires in my early 20s, to study Marketing, I started working at multi-national companies like Kraft Foods, AB InBev, The Coca Cola Company and most recently at Unilever in the global Marketing team based in London.

I learned so much about the nuances of marketing strategies, from conception through to delivery.

What are your short/long term goals?

I just launched my Marketing Consultancy The Curious beetle. My goal is to help entrepreneurs from different countries to make a positive impact while using proven marketing strategies.  

What sacrifices have you had to make to be a successful entrepreneur?

In 2016, I left my long career in the corporate world to pursue my personal purpose and reinvent myself. I gave up the security of the 9-5 to follow my dreams and do something more meaningful with my life.

Leaving the stability of a corporate job was a significant leap of faith. I traded a predictable income, health insurance, and a defined career path for the uncertainty of entrepreneurship. The initial months were particularly challenging as I navigated the complexities of building a business from scratch. I often worked long hours, sacrificing personal time and social activities. There were times when I doubted my decisions and faced financial strain. However, the rewards of pursuing my passion have far outweighed the sacrifices. I've gained immense fulfillment, creative freedom, and the opportunity to make a positive impact on the world.

What is your biggest dream? Why? Describe your biggest vision for your business.

My biggest dream is to see a world where all businesses operate sustainably, minimizing their environmental impact and contributing positively to society. I envision a future where businesses prioritize ethical practices, social responsibility, and ecological balance.

Our planet's resources are finite, and the consequences of unsustainable practices are becoming increasingly evident. By transitioning to sustainable business models, we can mitigate climate change, protect biodiversity, and ensure a healthy and prosperous future for generations to come. My vision for my business is to lead by example, demonstrating how sustainability can be integrated into every aspect of operations. We will strive to reduce our carbon footprint, minimize waste, and source responsibly. Furthermore, we will actively support initiatives that promote environmental conservation and social justice.

By working together, businesses can drive positive change and create a more sustainable world.

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