From the Economics classrooms at UPB to leading one of the country's most disruptive textile firms, Burbank's founder has shown that true Bolivian luxury lies not only in the quality of the garment, but in the purpose of the person 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.

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

• 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 my country's development, but life led me down unexpected paths and I ended up falling in love with the textile industry. It is a sector I am deeply passionate about because of its high labor demand and its ability to generate employment, especially for people with lower educational levels.

  
  

• How were your first steps in this industry?

  I began 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, together with my partner Mariana Turner, pushed 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.

  
  

• Twelve years later, Burbank has established itself as a reference brand, how would you describe that growth journey?

  It has been twelve years of learning and personal and professional growth. Today Burbank is a well-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, as well as our online store.

  
  

• What were the main challenges when starting a textile business in Bolivia?

  One of the great initial challenges was overcoming aversion to Bolivian products and the perception that local goods 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 world the story of Bolivia, a country of resilient people, capable of making beautiful, high-quality things.

  
  

• 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 to a more just and conscious future. Every garment we design carries the spirit, creativity, and beauty of Bolivia to the world.

  
  

• You have driven 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 they have work and training. In 2024, we obtained GRI sustainability certification, 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, to be donated so they can have a new life.

  
  

• 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 toward our people, our customers, and our country.

  
  

• 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 beginnings, 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.

  
  

• You are an entrepreneur, mother, and athlete, how do you manage that balance?

  Sports are an essential part of my life. I love running, biking, and going to the gym. I firmly believe that there is nothing better than 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 marked you?: 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 support families, communities, and teams.

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

• Your most precious possession?: My ability to persevere.