Meet Prospera North Carolina Regional Board Member Zurilma Anuel
Zurilma Anuel is a passionate advocate for equity and inclusive entrepreneurship. As Director of the Western Women’s Business Center—a program of Carolina Small Business Development Fund—she helps entrepreneurs across North Carolina gain access to coaching, capital, and opportunity. Her background in community development and her deep understanding of the challenges Latino small business owners face led her to first serve on Prospera’s Technical Assistance Committee. Today, she continues that commitment as a valued member of our North Carolina Regional Board. Keep reading to get to know her better!
What is your company’s mission and products/services?
The Western Women’s Business Center is a program of Carolina Small Business Development Fund, a statewide nonprofit Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) with a mission to foster economic development in the state of North Carolina. The Western Women’s Business Center meets the needs of entrepreneurs through one-on-one business coaching, workshops, and access to capital.
What have you enjoyed the most so far about serving on Prospera’s Regional Board?
I was motivated to serve because I’ve seen firsthand the challenges that Latino small business owners face, especially here in North Carolina. Language barriers, limited access to capital, limited resources, and a lack of culturally relevant support often hold back incredibly talented and hardworking entrepreneurs.
Being part of the board gives me the opportunity to contribute to solutions—providing tools, guidance, and encouragement that can truly change the trajectory of a small business. I’ve been a big fan of Prospera’s work for years. Their consistent impact and deep commitment to uplifting Latino entrepreneurs is inspiring, and it’s an honor to support their mission.
Which are the three words that best describe you?
The three words that best describe me are passionate, loyal, and driven. I pour my heart into everything I do—especially when it comes to supporting others. I’m deeply committed to making a meaningful impact and will always show up with purpose and determination.
How do you achieve work/life balance?
I achieved better work/life balance after doing an exercise called “The Clock.” It helped me reflect on how I was spending my time, and I realized I wasn’t giving enough attention to my family. That experience made me more intentional about creating balance in my life. Now, I make it a priority to divide my time in a way that honors both my commitments and my personal life. It’s not always perfect, but having that awareness helps me stay grounded and present.
How do you stay informed about trends in your industry?
I stay informed about trends in the CDFI industry by actively engaging with national networks like OFN (Opportunity Finance Network), NALCAB (National Association for Latino Community Asset Builders), attending conferences, and participating in webinars focused on community development, access to capital, and inclusive economic growth. I also make a point to stay connected with peers across North Carolina and the Appalachia Region to share insights and challenges.
What is one item still on your bucket list?
One item still on my bucket list is running a half marathon. I got really close—I once ran 10 miles—but I’ve never quite followed through. I tend to pick it up and then drop it again when life gets busy. But it’s still something I really want to accomplish, both as a personal challenge and a way to prove to myself that I can commit fully to a long-term goal just for me.
At Prospera, we’re grateful to count on Zurilma’s leadership and continued support as part of Prospera’s North Carolina Regional Board.
