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 the one who makes 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.

Entrepreneur, 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 a clear mind through sports and a 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 fashion world?

I studied Economics with the intention of contributing to my country's development, 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 because of its high demand for labor and its ability to generate employment, especially for people with lower education levels.

2. How were your first steps in this industry?

I started my experience at Ametex, the largest textile company Bolivia has ever had. For six years I worked in the commercial area, until the company closed its doors. That event, along with my partner Mariana Turner, prompted us to take a leap into entrepreneurship with the idea of creating a high-quality Bolivian clothing brand to be sold within the country. That is how 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 one 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 sector in Bolivia?

One of the great initial challenges was overcoming the aversion to Bolivian products and the perception that national products are not of 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 story of Bolivia to the world, 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 the pride of being who we are. We are a brand committed to equal opportunities and a more just and 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 became 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 customers 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 I am currently 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?

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

INSIGHTS:

• A book that left a mark on you: El imperio eres tú, 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: “To entrepreneur is not to have all the answers, it is learning to walk with purpose, even in the midst of uncertainty.”

• Your most precious asset: My ability to persevere.