A rising high school senior, Isabella Sofía Barr is a proactive Latina passionate about diverse subjects. She combined her interests in science and various dessert programs on TV to start Dolce Bella Desserts and sell her delightful creations. When the Covid-19 pandemic hit, Isabella seized an opportunity, and she started baking desserts actively.
Isabella was born in Arlington, Virginia, and inherited her Hispanic heritage from her mother, who is Venezuelan. Although she hasn’t been able to visit Venezuela for the last couple of years, Isabella feels very close to her Latino heritage. She says that her family loves their Latin culture, flavors, humor, and characterizing entrepreneurial spirit. This love displays in her desserts, most of which are inspired by Latin American creations.
Isabella’s father is from Texas, so she grew up in a bicultural family, which she says “has given [her] a broad view of customs and flavors.” She started baking while spending time with her family. Her experience and passion for desserts led her to attempt various recipes and methods that she found “fascinating and intricate.”
At her venture’s early stage, Isabella focuses on spreading the word and advertising locally as much as possible. She dedicated many years to perfecting her baking skills and techniques, and now she is confident in her entrepreneurship and ability to meet a sweet-tooth need. “My style and flavors will be what sets my business apart from other local businesses,” she told IQ Latino. In her hardworking fashion, Isabella tries to improve her creations continually and promote Dolce Bella Desserts daily.
Still a high school student, Isabella’s determination can be evidenced in her cumulative GPA of 4.2, as well as in her participation at her school’s IT Program, Spanish Honor Society (in a leadership position), NHS, Science Honor Society, Varsity Tennis Team, Taekwondo, Drama Club, Lion’s Club, and as a student tutor. Isabella also works in a restaurant as a hostess in Montclair, VA, where she grew up.
She advises fellow Latinos to “embrace the richness that our culture and flavors bring to the table.” Despite the short time she has spent in Venezuela, she largely owes her tenacity and passion to her culture. “No matter what hardships we face, don’t be afraid to fail and try again and again. We Latinos have a lot to offer to the world.”
Follow @dolcebelladesserts on Instagram or reach out to her at dolcebelladesserts@gmail.com. As she continues to explore where her passion and business can grow, she hopes to continue with Dolce Bella Desserts as she transitions to college next year.