Being a minority woman seeking success as a pizza entrepreneur in a foreign country, especially in a metropolis like Los Angeles, can be very challenging. In fact, my apprenticeship has lasted for six long years, and I have yet to achieve true success. Although I wake up each morning more determined than the day before to pursue success, for now, I have only managed to lay the foundation for it. From day one of my American life, I have had to struggle in an environment dominated by men who often underestimate my determination and will to win.

For example, I remember during my first weeks in Los Angeles, I rented a room on Airbnb, and the host helped me find a job in a restaurant on the California coast. Unfortunately, it was not an easy experience as I found myself ostracized by the other employees in the kitchen. Everyone spoke only Spanish and had joined closed groups of very distrustful people. As the only Italian-speaking employee, no one spoke to me or asked if I had any skills to be assigned to different tasks.

Fortunately, Los Angeles, despite all the difficulties, still offers opportunities to change jobs to try to improve oneself, and I have always tried to get out of situations like the one just described as soon as possible.

I faced many challenges, including the difficulty of finding a job where I could be valued, the lack of funding, and the difficulty of finding a clientele willing to experience pizza made by a female pizza maker. However, I never lost hope and continued to pursue my dream of becoming a successful pizza maker.

I learned that success takes time, patience, and perseverance. I had to work hard to establish the right connections and build my reputation in the industry. I am still working tirelessly to create a unique and quality product that can stand out from the competition and best represent the Italian culinary tradition.

Despite the challenges I have encountered, I have always believed in myself and continued to fight for my dream. I feel the desire to prove that I am equal to my male colleagues and that my gender is not an obstacle that can prevent me from becoming a successful pizza maker.

Today, I am proud to say that I have established a small but thriving company that is gaining recognition and accolades in the pizza industry. I am proving that with determination, passion, and hard work, one can overcome challenges and achieve success.

I am aware that my journey has not been easy, and there are still many obstacles to overcome. However, I am determined to keep fighting for my dream and to inspire other minority women to pursue their goals and not give up in the face of difficulties.

Karen Pisciotto