‘Street Girl, a life of hardship, heroism and hope’ by Brazilian entrepreneur Rozana McGrattan
Being Brazilian too and I was curious to see how this woman dug herself out of poverty to become a six-figures entrepreneur in the UK.
The book is a page turner! I was presently surprised to find out. I simply could not put the book down and I left everything else undone that day as turned the pages to find out what happened next.
So I got compelled to write this review and interview with this amazing woman.
It could be the familiarity with the Brazilian culture and mentality described in the book. Definitely not always the friendly, warm people described by the media.
The fact is that I could not stopping thinking of that little girl who was robbed of her childhood, struggled with depression and abuse but somehow kept finding a way of bouncing back.
Rozana’s thirst for survival allowed her not only to come out on the other side but also to live an extraordinary life.
Rozana’s story
Rozana was the third youngest of ten children.
As young as four years old she had to learn to look after herself and her smaller siblings while her mum would work at a farm plantation.
At six after she lost her best friend she went to work in a neighbour farm from where her family lived and worked to help look after the German owners’ baby.
There was where Rozana first went to school and that open her up to believe that there were more possibilities out there.
However, before Rozana had the opportunity to see these possibilities for herself she became a slaved child at 9 and was sexually harassed at 13.
Entrepreneurship, leadership and resilience
Rozana’s talent showed up earlier in her teenage years when as she hosted her own radio show and won a poetry competition.
She started developing her entrepreneurial skills borrowing 30 reais and turning them into 100 in a day when she unexpectedly became homeless.
Many ups and downs later she reached deep bottom when she got robbed of her last cents and had to live on the streets of Cracolandia, an area of Sao Paulo famous for its drugs, poverty and despair.
However, through one of life’s serendipities Rosana managed to get herself some works clothes and a job.
From there she went to eventually become a Sales Director and leader of a the best sales team within a big organisation in Brazil.
Only to have to start again from scratch after coming to the UK with the excuse of learning English but really wanting to disappear after having been abducted, raped and almost killed by a maniac.
I don’t want to spoil it for you as the story is much better told by Rozana in the book.
A truly inspiring book…
It is a lesson of courage and self-believe, making things happen out of thin air by simply giving a try even if the goal seems completely out of reach.
As a numbers person I was curious to find out a bit more about her entrepreneurial journey and how she managed to make £100K in her first year of trade so I made sure I asked her some ‘money questions’ on the interview below and she replied with very useful, practical answers.
Rozana’s story is an inspiration of being true to oneself despite all the adversity and of resilience to pick herself up again and again.
A great read for any entrepreneur who would like to feel truly inspired.
You can buy the book here: Street Girl
Interview
What inspired you to share your story?
I wanted to use my experiences to help other women who might be suffering like I was, to tell them “never give up”. I also wanted to bring the plight of Brazil’s street children to light, to let people know about them.
Has your family read your book (back in Brazil and children here)? Was there anything that you worried about ie family reaction?
My family in Brazil hasn’t read the book, as they don’t Speak English. I’m in the process (with my publisher) of negotiating a Portuguese translation with a Brazilian publisher. I’ve spoken to my family about Street Girl and I’m not worried about any adverse reaction to the contents. My daughter tried to read the book, but she couldn’t get past the 1st chapter, as she said it was “too sad”. My son is too young to read it, but he can when he’s old enough.
How easy / hard was it to get a publisher and an agent?
It was very difficult to get a publisher. None of the big mainstream publishers would take it on, not because their commissioning editors didn’t like it (they loved it) but I couldn’t get it past the marketing men, who couldn’t figure out how to market it. If it’s outside their comfort zone, they’ll turn a book down, no matter how good it is. This is an indictment of the mainstream publishing industry today – if you haven’t appeared on Big Brother they’re not interested. I don’t have an agent, my co-writer (John McDonald) has been invaluable in getting this book to where it is today. He has always believed in me and, without him, I would never have written the book.
Has your book gained you more business?
No, my book hasn’t gained me more business. In fact, I’m currently losing contracts, as businesses are closing down. The culture in this country at the moment is for companies to want to pay as little as possible – both to entrepreneurs like me and to their workers. They’ll pay less for sub-standard services rather than pay a fair contract fee for proper work.
Do you have a follow up book planned?
Yes – maybe a novel – maybe more about street children throughout the world. I’m involved with various charities, including the Nelson Mandela Child Trust Foundation – they want to work with the street kids in Brazil and I’m hoping to get involved in a social project with them there. I’m also involved with Lisa Brinkworth, a journalist with whom I may be making a documentary for the BBC.
What would you say to other female entrepreneurs who are struggling to get traction in their businesses?
With business, there is no miracle formula. You must put all your time an effort into your business. This can be difficult with the demands of a family and a social life – but sacrifices need to be made. It will be worth it in the long run. Never give up!
How difficult was it to start a business in another country?
Starting my business wasn’t so hard. I was younger and very determined (I still am). I had targets and a plan. I find it’s more difficult to keep a business going – you have to be there “on top of it” all the time.
You had an amazing first year of trading reaching £100K to what do you attribute such an achievement?
Luck had a lot to do with my first year of trading – the rest was hard work. I was lucky enough to meet the right people who gave me good advice and put good contracts my way. After that, I worked from 7am to 10pm every day.
What three tips would you give you readers about money in their business?
a) The money in the business is not yours – don’t think it is.
b) Plan 3 months ahead – have enough capital to pay wages and suppliers – be prepared for late payers.
c) Invest prudently in your business – don’t try to get too big too quick – plan for 30% less turnover so, if you lose a client, the business will survive.
If you could change one thing about how you started your business, what would it be?
I never used to send out invoices on time, I would send them after 30 days, then have to wait another 30 days for clients to pay. Now, I always send out timely invoices.
What book (aside from your own) do you recommend for women in business
Most of the books I’ve read about business are in Portuguese. One of my favourites is “Estado da Mente” which translates as “Mindset” (there may be an English translation). Another good one that influenced me is “The Negotiation Book”, written by my friend, Steve Gates.
You can buy the book here: Street Girl
