2020 was a year of loss but, in the same breath, it was also a year of new beginnings for 34-year-old Jennifer Peñate. She returned to Aruba during a difficult time after losing her job abroad and in the midst of the pandemic. However, it was during this challenging period that her focus on what has now materialized into her business, Studio 22, took shape. “This was the moment I had to reconsider my career path. It was a time full of challenges, but it was also an opportunity for a fresh start,” Jennifer explains. And indeed, this new beginning went hand in hand with the support and assistance from Qredits. This entrepreneurship story is one Jennifer wants to share with other entrepreneurs in Aruba to realize that sometimes it takes a push, self-confidence, and support to turn dreams into reality. This is the story of how Jennifer is changing the way we look at fitness; this is the story of the creation of Studio 22 Wellness Movement.
Fitness has always been a passion for Jennifer, but her vision was more tied to the 'wellness' aspect. The idea to train women originated from a friend who asked her for training. With her knowledge and dedication, Jennifer guided her friend, and gradually, more people started seeking her help. Although Jennifer also trained men, she realized that her focus was on helping women. Why? Simply because she could better understand their specific needs. “I had no doubts; I was confident it was the right time to take this step, although I did have some fear because it meant venturing into something new and unknown as I had no previous experience in entrepreneurship."
The name "Studio 22" came from a vision where at some point Jennifer was clear; she wanted something small, more personalized, with specific equipment only, and in a central location. The only thing she wasn’t completely clear on was the name. “When I started the process of creating this place, I kept seeing the number 22 everywhere. I decided to look up the meaning of the number 22 in numerology and found out it meant “Master Builder”. That was a perfect "fit" for me. The place is basically a studio, so it became Studio 22 Wellness Movement.”
Jennifer heard about Qredits through a friend who was new to the business world, and she decided to make contact to learn more. From the first call, the service and communication stood out. “Simply excellent.” The initial online process made the journey even easier and more convenient for Jennifer. “What stood out the most for me was how attentive they were and how much they guided and helped you through the process. It was my first time creating a business plan, for example, and I had no idea where to start. But Qredits had everything well thought out. They also have a lot of material on their website, from templates to short videos explaining how and what is important to keep in mind.”
Looking ahead to the next 5 years, Jennifer envisions leading a successful and well-recognized boutique gym studio within the wellness community in Aruba. Her goal is to expand the variety of services, including nutritional guidance and mental health support. Jennifer aims to create a solid support community in her studio where clients can achieve their fitness goals while finding a sense of belonging and motivation. On a personal level: “I want to continue developing myself in the wellness area to stay "on top" of the best practices and trends in the industry. I am committed to continuous improvement in the pursuit of health and well-being."
Would you recommend Qredits to other people/future entrepreneurs? Absolutely yes!
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