By day, Veronica Calzada is a successful, completely self-made businesswoman. As the owner of Fremont-based VFMS, she and her dedicated team provide cost-effective janitorial solutions that help to protect facilities and people, while also creating clean, safe and comfortable environments. Calzada is beloved by her colleagues, given her thoughtfulness, brilliance, and unmistakable leadership skills.
By night, she is a stunning dancer, who regularly heats up the dance floor during exhibitions and competitions. She often salsas the night away, easily out-dancing performers who are half her age. She is also the matriarch of a beautiful family, taking time for their needs too. If you are seeking a powerful woman role model, look no further than remarkable Calzada.
We were delighted to first meet her at a Smart Women Business Network event hosted by “Betty’s List” some years ago. She has remained a loyal friend and supporter to both “Betty’s List” and the San Francisco Bay Times ever since. Here, she shares more about her personal story.
San Francisco Bay Times: You are such a strong, successful businesswoman. Who were some of your role models over the years?
Veronica Calzada: My mother and great grandmother were very strong women who succeeded in a male dominated society. My mother was a doctor and my great grandmother had a lot of real estate. Nowadays, I look up to my daughter Helen, who conquered the salsa community at the age of 16 and now owns her own business. (Editor’s Note: Helen Vazquez is a competitive salsa dancer and dance instructor based in the South Bay. For more information, see http://www.salsabythebay.com/helen-vazquez/)
San Francisco Bay Times: You studied dentistry at the University of Mexico City. Did you ever work as a dentist? If not, why didn’t you pursue becoming a dentist? What changed your career path?
Veronica Calzada: Yes, I did practice dentistry in Mexico City, and when I moved to the U.S., I was a surgical dental assistant for a doctor at Stanford University. After taking the National Board Test, the revalidation of my credential would have taken about 5 years to process. At the same time, a cleaning lady came knocking on my door to offer me a job as a house cleaner. Because I didn’t have a secure job at the time, I accepted and learned everything there was to know about the business. A week later, I went looking for her with a fruit basket to thank her, and the manager informed me that she had moved away. To this day, I always say, “That was an angel that crossed my path.”
San Francisco Bay Times: What are some of the challenges you have faced, running your own business, and how have you resolved those matters?
Veronica Calzada: The business world is a male-dominated field, and for that reason, the competition doubles. We cannot close deals in a bar, over beers, to obtain good contracts. On the other hand, I have been able to jump out of my high heels and let my work speak for myself, even if it requires me to get the job done.
San Francisco Bay Times: You work with a lot of other women. Sometimes we women argue a lot and can be our own worst enemies! How have you overcome such problems, in collaborating with other talented women?
Veronica Calzada: I have acquired the ability to keep a neutral and professional state of mind when it comes to women in the workplace. It can be difficult at times, because there are a lot of emotions involved, but like any great leader, we are able to move forward together.
San Francisco Bay Times: What advice would you give to other individuals who would like to start their own business?
Veronica Calzada: Never give up. My business philosophy is, “Don’t let past experiences limit you from learning and listening to the new opportunities that come to you everyday.”
San Francisco Bay Times: Does dancing contribute to your work life at all, perhaps by re-energizing you, helping with fitness, meeting contacts or fueling creative energies?
Veronica Calzada: I have always had a passion for the performing arts, and coming from a background of professional skating in Mexico, I continue to dance and even compete in World Latin Dance events. When it comes to practicing, dancing helps get my mind off work and to stay in shape. Also, who doesn’t like to dance? Especially, if you are Latina.
San Francisco Bay Times: You have also raised children. How were you able to juggle your professional life with your home life?
Veronica Calzada: Being a mom and a business owner at the same time was a definite challenge. At the same time, I’ve learned to manage my work life and personal life in an efficient way that wouldn’t compromise my mom priorities. It was always important for me to be present at all of my kids’ school and extracurricular activities, even if that meant coming back to work late hours at the office.
San Francisco Bay Times: You are such a role model for those who are hoping to be financially independent and to feel empowered. Do you have any other advice to share?
Veronica Calzada: You have to learn to delegate in your business, as well as in your personal life. Family always comes first, but that doesn’t mean that owning your own business is impossible.
For more information about VFMS, please visit http://verosfms.com/
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