We Won the Spark Award! Here’s What It Means (And Why It Matters)

Jun 29
3 min read

Updated: Jun 29

In May, The Real Entrepreneurs Magazine & Podcast was honored with the prestigious Spark Award by the Better Business Bureau. a recognition that celebrates innovation, impact, and ethical leadership in our region.

🏆 The Spark Award is not just another business accolade. It’s granted to emerging organizations and leaders who exemplify the highest standards of character, culture, customer service, and community commitment.

In short: It’s about doing things right, and doing them with purpose!!

This award validates everything we’ve poured into this publication. From day one, The Real Entrepreneurs Magazine has been about more than content, it’s been about connection, culture, and community. It’s about telling stories that matter, spotlighting business journeys that deserve to be seen, and strengthening the entrepreneurial spirit across borders.

A Special Moment on Stage

One of the most touching moments of the night was the introduction by the Mayor of El Paso, Renard Johnson who presented with warmth and conviction Arlette, our editor in chief, and spoke about the important role The Real Entrepreneurs Magazine & Podcast plays in uplifting our community.

When it was time to take the stage, Arlette shared a bit of the backstory that brought this dream to life. She said:

“Ever since I was a teenager, I dreamed of creating a magazine. But for many years, I couldn’t find a purpose strong enough to turn that dream into reality. But around 2019, that old idea began to grow again. I started noticing what other entrepreneurs were doing, the unique and resilient way we bring our ideas to life; the stories behind every project; the incredible work of organizations like the BBB; the resources that sometimes seem hidden… and even, everything that’s still missing in the entrepreneurial ecosystem. And just like that, one day I knew it was time. Time to create a magazine, one especially dedicated to entrepreneurs, to those who love the spirit of entrepreneurship.”

She also shared that being an entrepreneur can feel lonely at times. That’s why she envisioned this magazine like a good friend, the kind you don’t see every day, but when you do, they show up with value, inspiration, and a sense of shared purpose.

And because we live on the border, she made a clear decision:

“Supe también que debería ser bilingüe, porque vivir en la frontera es vivir en dos idiomas, y la revista debería reflejarlo con orgullo.”

That’s how The Real Entrepreneurs Magazine was born, with a mission to uplift, inform, and connect.

We only publish twice a year, not because we can’t do more, but because we believe in quality over quantity. Each edition is carefully crafted to last, to remain relevant, meaningful, and impactful. Our readers already live full, busy lives, so every page is meant to matter.

This Award Belongs to You, Too..

At the end of her speech, she said something from the heart that we’d like to share again here:

“This is not the kind of magazine that you will see everywhere, because it is not about being everywhere, but about getting to the right hands and reaching the right people. Those who are truly active in the community. People like you, committed to innovation and progress.And well… I can say that my teenage self is really happy with this project. That’s why I’m proud to personally handle the design, the layout, and most of the writing right now.But more than anything, I want to recognize the true inspiration and the real team behind this magazine: all of you. The entrepreneurs who give everything to their projects, the ones helping to build a better community, the ones who believe in authenticity and doing things right. To all of you, thank you very much.”

This Spark Award is not just a win for us. It’s a win for the entire entrepreneurial community we proudly represent. Haven’t seen the magazine yet? Get your copy and come to our next unveiling event and pick up your copy. Let’s celebrate together and continue writing the next chapter of local entrepreneurship, one real story at a time.