STORIES OF IMPACT

At WESST, we believe the heart of our mission is best told through the journeys of the entrepreneurs we serve. In our Client Stories section, you’ll find inspiring accounts of New Mexican business owners—at every stage of their ventures—who have been transformed through WESST’s consulting, training, lending, and incubation support. These stories highlight how we partner with clients to turn ideas into thriving, sustainable businesses, showing the real impact of guidance, financial tools, and persistence.

From wellness centers, retail brands, and service businesses to manufacturing and tech enterprises, each narrative underscores how tailored resources, mentorship, and belief in their vision helped these founders overcome obstacles, build confidence, and grow with purpose.

Wavez Restaurant

Las Cruces, NM Lui came to WESST after being referred by Pioneer Bank. He was seeking a loan to expand their restaurant, Wavez, and take the next step in their growth. Through this referral, WESST and Lui built a relationship, learning more about his goals and exploring financing options that would support the development of his business. Rooted deeply in his Hawaiian heritage, Lui has always carried a love for the flavors, traditions, and the spirit of aloha. After he began

FOOD & BEVERAGE

Pieced by Lane

Aztec, NM Rhonda first learned about WESST through a promotional flyer and was immediately interested in our Native Women Rising (NWR) program. She attended an orientation in October 2023, and at the time, she was looking for opportunities to turn her art into a sustainable business, and she wanted to connect with other Native entrepreneurs. One of the main obstacles Rhonda faced in starting and growing her business was learning how to transition from being an artist to becom

CREATIVE ARTS

Oliva Cheese Board

Albuquerque, NM Ronmienezky “Ronmi” Cavalieri learned about WESST through her community, most notably her sister, who owned a restaurant and received support from WESST. In October 2025, Ronmi scheduled a consultation with our team and began to build a structured plan to formalize and grow her charcuterie business, Oliva Cheese Board. Like other small business owners, Ronmi had her fair share of challenges. She needed guidance to register her business, better understand licen

FOOD & BEVERAGE

Committed to Service: Judith Perez’s Growth with the Maddox Leadership Institute

By WESST | February 27, 2026 Originally from Las Cruces and now based in Hobbs, Judith Perez has been with WESST since 2023. She initially served as a Bilingual Business Consultant and has since been promoted to Women’s Business Center Director. In 2025, Judith was selected to participate in the seventh cohort of the JF Maddox Foundation’s Maddox Leadership Institute (MLI) . The Maddox Leadership Institute is a nine-month leadership development program designed to strengthe

WESST NEWS & UPDATES

Affordable Solar and Local Nonprofits Celebrate Launch of Statewide Community Solar Projects

By WESST | February 26, 2026 After years of planning following the launch of New Mexico’s community solar program, Affordable Solar is now powering up projects across the state. On February 26, Affordable Solar and its nonprofit partners gathered to celebrate five community solar projects now online, with a sixth expected by the end of the month. Together, these projects represent 30 megawatts of solar capacity, providing clean electricity to homes and organizations statewide

WESST NEWS & UPDATES

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