Our Team / Nuestro equipo
Founding Executive Director: Dr. Nelson Soler - PhD, MBA, MS, EDFP, Enrolled Agent, QuickBooks Pro
Dr. Nelson Soler is a renowned Milwaukee-based entrepreneur, educator, and community advocate. Born into a mixed-race family in Puerto Rico and raised in poverty, he has built his life mission around empowering others to pursue their entrepreneurial and professional dreams through culturally relevant strategies and inclusive leadership.
A visionary leader, Dr. Soler has founded five organizations—two for-profit and three nonprofit—dedicated to entrepreneurship, workforce development, and equitable economic growth. His impact spans nationally, having supported the formation of more than 6,200 enterprises across Wisconsin and providing culturally tailored technical assistance to diverse entrepreneurial communities throughout the United States.
In 2017, he founded the Latino Chamber of Commerce of Southeastern Wisconsin, where he currently serves as President & CEO. Under his leadership, the Chamber has emerged as a regional powerhouse in microlending and capacity building, distributing over $2.1 million in loans, grants, and technical assistance to vulnerable businesses. Today, the organization serves over 400 enterprises annually, supports job creation and retention, and delivers more than 960 hours of training to over 500 entrepreneurs.
Dr. Soler’s academic credentials are extensive. He holds dual bachelor’s degrees in Electrical Engineering and Economics from the State University of New York at Buffalo; a Master of Business Administration and a Master of Science in International Business and Marketing from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee; and a Ph.D. in Leadership for the Advancement of Learning and Service from Cardinal Stritch University. He is also a certified Economic Development Finance Professional (EDFP), an Enrolled Agent (EA) licensed by the U.S. Department of the Treasury, and a certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor.
His exceptional leadership and community impact have earned him numerous accolades, including the U.S. Small Business Administration Wisconsin Award (2007), Region 4 Chamber Executive of the Year from the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (2009), UMOS Hispanic Man of the Year (2011), and the Community Business Development Award from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (2018).
In 2025, Dr. Soler was named a Wisconsin Titan 100, recognizing him as one of the state’s most accomplished CEOs and C-level executives for his visionary leadership, innovation, and influence.
Through his unwavering commitment to equity, entrepreneurship, and empowerment, Dr. Nelson Soler continues to serve as a catalyst for inclusive economic development—uplifting underserved communities and advancing prosperity across the nation.
Empowerment Director: Marlene Andrade
Marlene immigrated to the United States at the age of 16, overcoming the challenges of adapting to a new culture and learning a second language. Her journey inspired a lifelong commitment to serving the Spanish-speaking community, using her bilingual skills to help others navigate the barriers she once faced.
With extensive experience in the nonprofit sector, Marlene has led and supported programs focused on housing stability, rental assistance, food access, and homelessness prevention. She is passionate about connecting underserved individuals and families with the resources they need to thrive.
Marlene has completed numerous professional trainings, including DCF Civil Rights Compliance, Basic Life Support (CPR and AED), ServSafe Food Handler, HIPAA Basics, Harm Reduction, SAMHSA HHRC (Serious Mental Illness and Homelessness), and the Wisconsin Child Welfare Professional Development System. These certifications demonstrate her dedication to providing service with empathy, professionalism, and cultural sensitivity.
Outside of work, Marlene is dedicated to animal welfare and often rescues and cares for stray animals. She also co-founded a family baking business, "Postres y Comida Mary," with her mother. Her work and life are guided by the values passed down from her grandmother: lead with kindness, listen with empathy, and treat others as you wish to be treated.
Marlene continues to be a compassionate advocate and community leader, uplifting voices that too often go unheard.
marlene@latinoentrepreneurialnetwork.org
414-233-0773
Marketing Intern: Destiny Gaona
Destiny Gaona is a motivated high school student and emerging young professional with a growing passion for business, marketing, and entrepreneurship. She is currently a student at Carmen High School Southeast in Milwaukee, where she is building a strong foundation in leadership, communication, and creative problem-solving.
At just 17 years old, Destiny is already taking intentional steps toward her future by gaining hands-on experience as a Marketing Intern, where she supports branding, outreach, and promotional efforts. Through this role, she is developing practical skills in marketing strategy, content creation, and professional collaboration, while learning how organizations connect with their communities and audiences.
Driven by a desire to one day pursue a career in business and entrepreneurship, Destiny is especially interested in how marketing can be used to grow businesses, tell meaningful stories, and create opportunities for others. She brings curiosity, creativity, and a strong work ethic to everything she does, and she is committed to continuous learning and personal growth.
As a young Latina navigating the early stages of her professional journey, Destiny is inspired by leaders who uplift their communities and create pathways for success. She represents the next generation of business leaders eager to learn, ready to contribute, and focused on building a future rooted in purpose and impact.