IIse Chiri
Ilse Chiri is the Founder and CEO of Lil Cutie Diaper Cakes, a Tampa-based small business she launched in 2022 after years of experience in the wellness industry, pediatrics, and at Moffitt Cancer Center. With a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences from the University of South Florida, Ilse initially pursued a career in healthcare but found her entrepreneurial calling after starting her business from the ground up—going door to door and learning B2B sales. Her handcrafted diaper cakes are not just practical baby gifts, but unique pieces that reflect her creativity, resilience, and commitment to bringing joy to families.
In addition to running her own company, Ilse has served as a licensed insurance broker and promotional model, showcasing her versatility and passion for community engagement. As a proud Latina business owner and cofounder of The Tampa Baddies, she is driven to empower others and elevate underrepresented voices. With three dogs, a supportive husband, and a deep love for travel, Ilse’s journey is a testament to how grit, creativity, and cultural pride can turn a simple idea into a celebrated brand.
• University of South Florida- B.S.
What do you attribute your success to?
Ilse attributes her success to the inspiration and support of her parents—wanting to make them proud motivated her to build something of her own, proving that she could succeed independently without relying on working for someone else.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to block out negativity, never give up, and surround yourself with like-minded people. I’ve learned to truly value genuine friendships and the support of a strong community.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field has been learning how to be a successful business owner, which is why I took a door-to-door sales job and earned my insurance license—not just for the income, but to gain hands-on training in sales and business that I could apply directly to growing my own company.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are perseverance and gratitude—I’m a first-generation college graduate, and my biggest inspiration has always been my mom, who taught me the importance of hard work and believing in myself.