Viva Sole- Oana Story

Oana Jarca

Founder of VIVA SOLE SHOES

-ROMANIA-

What inspired you to start your brand?

I am an immigrant woman who walked a lot of difficult steps to where she is today, but never in uncomfortable shoes. That's why Viva Sole exists. For women who want to float effortlessly through life.

How has your immigrant journey shaped your business?

Moving to the United States taught me resilience, adaptability, and the courage to start over. As an immigrant, I learned that opportunities are created through hard work, persistence, and a willingness to take risks. Those lessons became the foundation of Viva Sole. Building a brand from scratch in a new country pushed me to trust my vision, embrace challenges, and create products that empower women to confidently pursue their own journeys, no matter where they begin.

What challenges did you face building your brand?

One of the biggest challenges was entering a highly competitive industry without the resources of an established fashion house. I had to learn every aspect of the business—from product development and sourcing to branding and marketing—while balancing motherhood, work, and my studies. There were moments of uncertainty, but every obstacle strengthened my belief in the vision behind Viva Sole: creating beautiful shoes that women can truly live in.

What are you most proud of?

I am most proud of turning an idea into a reality. As an immigrant, mother, and entrepreneur, there were many reasons to wait for the "perfect time," but I chose to begin anyway. Seeing Viva Sole come to life, from the first sketches to the finished collection, reminds me that perseverance can transform dreams into something tangible. More than anything, I am proud of creating a brand that celebrates women's strength, ambition, and individuality.

What makes your brand unique?

A luxury comfort footwear brand founded by an immigrant woman, inspired by resilience and designed for ambitious women who refuse to choose between beauty and comfort

What does being part of FEMMENAS mean to you?

Being part of Femmenas means joining a community of women who support, inspire, and elevate one another. Entrepreneurship can often feel lonely, especially when building something from the ground up, so being surrounded by women who understand the journey is incredibly meaningful. It is an opportunity to share experiences, learn from each other, and contribute to a network that encourages women to dream bigger and lead with confidence.