Southside Spotlight: Juanita Sepulveda

Breaking Barriers: The Inspiring Journey of Juanita Sepulveda

From the fields of Frost and Corsicana, Texas, to the boardrooms of San Antonio, Juanita Sepulveda’s life story is one of resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to service. As the Partner and COO of Vanyel Investments, Juanita is at the forefront of pioneering new processes in options trading. But her path to success is as inspiring as her current role.

Humble Beginnings and Strong Roots

Born in Piedras Negras, Mexico, Juanita Sepulveda was raised in Frost and Corsicana, Texas, by migrant worker parents. Her mother decided to become a legal U.S. resident to ensure her children could access education. Lessons of resilience marked Juanita’s childhood, the importance of education, and a strong work ethic that would guide her through life.

After graduating from Corsicana High School and Navarro College, Juanita dreamed of attending medical school at Texas A&M University. But financial barriers redirected her path. Instead of letting her dreams fade, she joined the U.S. Marine Corps, where she developed discipline and a deep sense of purpose.

Juanita’s journey was far from easy. As a single mother of seven, she faced unimaginable challenges, including a period of homelessness in 2011. However, through sheer determination and faith, she persevered. She provided for her family and relentlessly pursued higher education, earning an astonishing seven degrees, including a Master of Science in Education and Business Administration.

This transformative experience ignited her passion for empowering others. Today, Juanita channels her struggles into advocacy, entrepreneurship, and mentorship, inspiring countless individuals to overcome challenges.

A Life of Service and Success

Throughout her career, Juanita has worn many hats: business development leader, government relations expert, project manager, nonprofit advocate, and proud U.S. Marine Corps veteran. Her diverse experiences have shaped her unique approach to creating opportunities for others.

As a community advocate, she uplifts women, children, and veterans. Her work transcends business—she is deeply committed to empowering others to transform their lives and achieve greatness.

Juanita’s journey is marked by a relentless determination to break barriers and provide for her family, even in adversity. Her resourcefulness, dedication to service, and ability to turn obstacles into opportunities make her a force to be reckoned with.

She is most proud of her ability to uplift others through nonprofit work, advocacy, or innovative business solutions. For Juanita, success is not just personal; it’s about lifting her community as she climbs.

Words of Wisdom

Juanita’s advice is simple yet powerful:
“Your circumstances do not define you; your determination does.”
“Turn every obstacle into an opportunity, and never underestimate the power of perseverance.”

How to Connect with Juanita

Juanita is always open to collaboration with individuals and organizations who share her passion for community impact, innovation, and empowerment. Whether through partnerships, mentorship, or joint ventures, she is eager to create positive change.

A Surprising Fact

Despite her challenges as a single mother raising seven children, Juanita earned seven degrees—a testament to the power of perseverance, education, and community support.

Juanita Sepulveda’s story reminds us that no obstacle is insurmountable with determination and faith. She is a shining example of how challenges can be transformed into opportunities and how success is most meaningful when shared with others.