Leadership and transformation in the Bolivian textile industry with Burbank.

From the Economics classrooms at UPB to leading one of the most disruptive textile firms in the country, the founder of Burbank has shown that true Bolivian luxury lies not only in the quality of the garment, but in the purpose of those who make it. In a sector marked by competitiveness, Adriana has woven a network of sustainability, sisterhood, and national pride that is transforming "made in Bolivia" into a statement of principles.

Businesswoman, mother, athlete, and firm advocate for female leadership from the board of Camebol La Paz, Adriana understands that entrepreneurship is a long-distance race. Whether promoting workshops in prisons or certifying her company under international sustainability standards, her vision is clear: urban fashion is the vehicle to project an authentic, diverse, and, above all, excellent Bolivia to the world. With her mind cleared by sports and her heart set on the circular economy, Adriana invites us to discover that success, just like a good garment, must be designed to last.

1. You studied Economics at UPB, how was the transition from economics to the world of fashion?

I studied Economics with the intention of contributing to the development of my country, but life took me down unexpected paths and I ended up falling in love with the textile industry. It is a sector that I am deeply passionate about due to its high demand for labor and its capacity to generate employment, especially for people with lower educational levels.

2. What were your first steps in this industry like?

I started my experience at Ametex, the largest textile company Bolivia has had. For six years I worked in the commercial area, until the company closed its doors. That event, together with my partner Mariana Turner, prompted us to take a leap towards entrepreneurship with the idea of creating a high-quality Bolivian clothing brand to be sold within the country. Thus, Burbank was born.

3. Twelve years later, Burbank has consolidated itself as a leading brand, how would you describe that path of growth?

It has been twelve years of learning and personal and professional growth. Today Burbank is a positioned brand that seeks to value national production and the pride of being Bolivian. We started with a small production and a store in La Paz; now we have four stores in La Paz, Cochabamba, and Santa Cruz, in addition to our online store.

4. What were the main challenges when starting a business in the textile field in Bolivia?

One of the big initial challenges was overcoming the aversion to Bolivian products and the perception that national products do not have good quality. At Burbank we work to change that idea: we want to create urban fashion that inspires joy, a desire to share, and pride in being oneself. We seek to tell the world the history of Bolivia, a country of resilient people, capable of making beautiful and high-quality things.

5. Beyond fashion, there is a social purpose behind the brand, what is the philosophy that guides Burbank?

At Burbank we make more than fashion: we create stories that celebrate authenticity, diversity, strength, and pride in being who we are. We are a brand committed to equal opportunities and a fairer and more conscious future. Each garment we design carries the spirit, creativity, and beauty of Bolivia to the world.

6. You have promoted initiatives with a social and environmental focus, could you tell us more about them?

We collaborate with incarcerated women, supporting them in their textile workshop so that they have work and training. In 2024, we certified as a GRI sustainable company, reaffirming our commitment to society and the environment. In addition, we promote the circular economy: we want our garments to last a long time and, when they are no longer used, they can be donated to have a new life.

7. How do you define Burbank's value proposition today?

We are a Bolivian textile industry committed to quality, design, and social and environmental values. Since our creation, we have demonstrated the highest standards of responsibility with our people, our clients, and our country.

8. You are also part of Camebol La Paz, what does collective work among women entrepreneurs mean to you?

I have belonged to Camebol La Paz since its inception, and currently I am part of its board. I firmly believe in the power of support and sisterhood among women. From there we promote spaces to share experiences, grow together, and strengthen female leadership in the business community.

9. You are an entrepreneur, mother, and athlete, how do you achieve that balance?

Sport is an essential part of my life. I love running, biking, and going to the gym. I firmly believe that there is nothing better than the balance between family life, sport, and work. Keeping my energy high and my mind clear is what allows me to keep dreaming and creating every day.

INSIGHTS:

• A book that has marked you: El imperio eres tú (The Empire is You), by Javier Moro. It connected me with history as a mirror of the human soul.

• A person you deeply admire: Women who transform from the invisible: those who sustain families, communities, and teams.

• A phrase that guides your life: "Entrepreneurship is not about having all the answers, it is about learning to walk with purpose, even in the midst of uncertainty."

• Your most precious asset: My ability to persevere.