Today we have the honor to introduce you to Espree Devora, though she might not need much of an introduction since she has been one of the most often (and consistently) mentioned and nominated people when we ask for recommendations for our inspiring stories series. Check out our interview with her below.
Espree, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I always knew I was an entrepreneur, I just didn’t know that’s what it was called. Walking through Westwood Village where I grew up I would look at empty office spaces and daydream what businesses I would put in the vacant spots. These fantasies started at 7 years old so cartoon merch were some of my initial ideas. It’s hard to believe I even remember those daydreams. By 6th grade my dad gifted me my first video camera. That sparked my future love for media production. He also had a home office where I’d play on this computer discovering programming and chat rooms. By end of high school/early college I was reading business and real estate investing books continuing to dream big. Eventually I built what became the first action sports social network, was the first female to raise money in the action sports industry for a tech company which later became a media network when MySpace popularity took over. That love for media and startups evolved into my company today, WeAreLATech, which unites LA tech professionals via unique offline life Experiences and an LA tech focused podcast. Additionally, my team built the community the main mobile app powering the calendar for all LA tech events put on by any community organizer. Check out the podcast at WeAreLATech.fm and ‘Experience’ Club at WeAreLATech.club
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Every day is a struggle. It’s not easy running a community centric business. The main challenge is being financially sustainable. I want WeAreLATech to be accessible, while still being curated. I never charge enough for most of what I produce because I am so focused on serving people… This has been an issue. I learned the hard way that in order to best serve community I must build a financially smart company and equally live a healthy lifestyle while doing so.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about WeAreLATech – what should we know? What do you do, for those who aren’t familiar?
Okay, what do I do? I care. Deeply. About other people’s success. I specialize in creating memorable offline ‘Experiences’ for the tech community. I am proud I’ve helped foster many meaningful relationships including a recent wedding that happened via connections made at WeAreLATech. What sets me apart is my bold heart and passion to deliver excellence and make true positive impact in people’s lives.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Valuing myself while continuing to serves others for their sake, not mine. It’s not about “Me”. It’s about “We”.
Contact Info:
- Website: wearelatech.club
Image Credit:
Calvin Lee and Gerald Gonzales
Getting in touch: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
