2023 Fellow Focus: Issel Masses + Sembrando Sentido
Social justice warrior, risk taker, revolutionary…2023 Fellow Issel Masses of Sembrando Sentido shares more about her journey as a social impact entrepreneur.
What life experiences propelled you into the entrepreneurial space and made you decide to be your own boss?
Like many others who lived through it, working in Puerto Rico during the aftermath of Hurricanes Irma and Maria changed my life. After having lived outside of the Archipelago for over 14 years, primarily working on governance and anti-corruption at the global and local levels, I was grateful to be back during such dire times and contribute to our recovery. However, it was also heartbreaking to witness firsthand the disconnect between government decisions and the needs of our communities, even when it resulted in loss of life. It was at that moment that I made the decision to chart a new career path, returning to Puerto Rico to apply my knowledge and expertise for the betterment of the Archipielago through this anti-corruption venture.
What do you enjoy most about being a founder?
Having the opportunity and ability to forge a different path, to explore, to take risks, to innovate, and to witness and enjoy the fruits of such efforts. It involves personal and professional growth, embarking on a journey to confront the numerous challenges founders face, the constant process of unlearning and learning, and the successes and lessons derived from our experiences.
What do you wish someone had told you before you started your entrepreneurial journey?
I wish I would have known how important it is for venture leaders and entrepreneurs to share pains and gains with other fellow entrepreneurs, and to have a safe space to do so. These spaces have been critical in helping me manage unforeseen challenges, quite frankly “vent” and let go, and realize that even when it may feel lonely, you are not alone. Joining and forming support groups has made all the difference in this journey.
Tell us about an experience you had as an entrepreneur or in starting your company that exemplified one of Camelback's core values: "Belief in Mission + Vision"; "Unafraid of Failure"; "Constant Learner"; "Humble + Hungry"; and "Give First."
The creation of the digital platform Contratos En Ley speaks of being “Unafraid of Failure.”
From the get-go, and even to many seasoned experts in the field, improving transparency and oversight of public spending as a non-governmental organization in Puerto Rico was seen as “impossible.” Regarding spending in public contracting alone (which represents ~50% of total spending), the government had over 56 portals with relevant, yet limited information, often too decentralized, low quality, and incomplete to use or draw insights from. However, these challenges were preventing communities from “following the money” and being part of the critical decisions that determine their future.
Many thought this was an unattainable task, while others had concerns over my safety “if/when” we succeeded. What they didn't know was that we (including those that joined the cause along the way) decided early on that accepting this lack of transparency and colonial governance that fed corruption and mismanagement of public funds was out of the question. We were and are willing to die for this, and thus, determined to find a path. And we did. And we are just getting started.
How do you stay motivated?
I feel inspired and fulfilled when I witness a committed team that is proactive and inquisitive in the face of great challenges. It fills me with joy when we empower communities by providing them with information so they can have agency over decisions that impact their lives. I am motivated when we raise awareness about corruption and prevent the mismanagement of funds. It is gratifying when government officials seek our assistance in improving legislation or shaping policies that promote the fair and equitable use of public funds.
For me, however, it is also important to find ways to stay motivated even during difficult days. I am deeply affected when I witness the social, economic, and environmental impact of funds being used to benefit a select few, instead of fostering equitable and restorative development. It saddens me when the government slashes over 50% of our public university's budget under the pretext of "insufficient funds and austerity measures”. I am disheartened when prioritizing lucrative construction projects takes precedence over protecting our coasts and the rights of our communities to stay in their homes. And yet, even in the face of these challenges, I channel frustrations and feelings of hopelessness into renewed energy that fuels my ongoing fight for justice.
Let's talk about your legacy. How do you hope your venture will make the world a better place generations from now?
I hope that this venture contributes to expanding access to information, political power, and public resources aimed at increasing social, economic, and environmental equity. We aim to become an innovative model of technology and research tools, collaboration, and advocacy, generating and democratizing information, action and spaces for political influence. By forming equitable and horizontal alliances that adapt to the evolving work and focus of the organization, we aim to strengthen our impact.
What's your favorite book or podcast that you draw entrepreneurial inspiration from?
Radio Ambulante always grounds and inspires me. The podcast draws from historical, political and social dynamics in Latin America, by telling the stories of those who lived through it. This podcast never fails to help me reflect, feel connected to other communities and global efforts for social justice, and think differently around our approaches and strategies.
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