Influential Woman · Retail Accessories
Milena Morais
Owner/Founder, CHIC In Brazil
Chicagoland, IL 60611
Her Story
About Milena
Milena Morais, an entrepreneur, business developer, and industrial-organizational psychology professional, with a career background in healthcare and aviation, skillfully combines her academic expertise with a passion for creating innovative consumer brands. As the founder of CHIC In Brazil LLC, she specializes in sourcing and curating premium international products, including Brazilian 18K gold jewelry, natural stone accessories, and luxury-inspired home décor. Her mission is to make high-quality, globally inspired products accessible to consumers who value elegance, craftsmanship, and value.
Milena’s academic journey began with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology, followed by a Master’s degree in Industrial and Organizational Psychology with a concentration in Business Development. During her graduate studies, she discovered her passion for entrepreneurship and organizational growth. Inspired by her family’s history of small business ownership in Brazil, particularly her grandmother’s successful bakery, she developed a deep appreciation for the creativity, resilience, and vision required to build a business.
Drawing upon her education and entrepreneurial roots, Milena launched CHIC In Brazil to introduce distinctive Brazilian products to the U.S. market. In just over a year, she has achieved remarkable growth, expanding her business to multiple retail locations and preparing to open a flagship store on Chicago’s iconic Michigan Avenue. Beyond overseeing international supplier relationships, product development, and retail operations, Milena is designing her own collection of handbags, footwear, sunglasses, and accessories that will be manufactured in Italy and Portugal.
Recognized for her determination, creativity, and strategic mindset, Milena is building a brand centered on affordable luxury, global craftsmanship, and exceptional customer experiences. She successfully balances the demands of entrepreneurship and family life while continuing to grow her business.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Milena
01What do you attribute your success to?
My primary attribute is my strong faith. I trust in the power of faith and believe that God has guided me to my current position. I also give credit to Jesus, through God's strength, for my accomplishments. My grandmother was a resilient woman who raised seven children alone and helped raise her grandchildren, including me. She established a family built on unity and love continuing with my hardworking mother, who followed my grandmother’s example. Now, I stand here on a much larger stage, inspired by their legacy. My two little guys inspire me to be a better version of myself and a good mother. I am also thankful for my supportive husband, who has believed in my dreams from the start and helped me achieve them. He is someone who truly loves me and our growing beautiful family.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
No matter your chosen profession, make sure you’re content with it. There’s no universally right or wrong profession, as we all need money, right? However, you can earn money doing what you love. So, I recently heard that if that brings you joy, I believe you should pursue it wholeheartedly.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I believe they must have faith in themselves and their abilities. If others are capable of reaching their goals, then you are capable of reaching yours too. Focus on the positive aspects and surround yourself with wise individuals who can inspire and motivate you. Believe in their dreams, even if they don’t seem achievable at first. Keep trying, even if it doesn’t work immediately. Remember, their dreams reside within their hearts, and if nothing is impossible, they should always strive to achieve them. Believe in themselves and maintain a positive outlook. Embrace the negativity, but don’t let it deter them from pursuing their dreams. Keep going and never lose faith.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The most significant challenge lies in accepting out of the ordinary, surprising circumstances. We are a new business entering a highly challenging economic climate. Despite these obstacles, we remain committed to our venture. Therefore, the key lies in cultivating self-belief and unwavering confidence in our product. It is crucial to align our offerings with the needs and desires of our target audience. Subsequently, we must demonstrate our competence and establish credibility through consistent performance and positive outcomes.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
My faith, my family, and the principle of loving your neighbor as you love yourself are of utmost importance to me. I believe in doing good for everyone.
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