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Carolim Mendoza is a resilient and visionary leader, founder of Dallas Strategies, a partner agency of Benefits & Care based in Dallas, Texas. Her journey exemplifies the power of perseverance and dedication to a dream. Today, she proudly leads a team of 10 agents who share her passion for transforming lives through health insurance. However, this success didn’t come easily; it is the result of a journey filled with sacrifices, hard work, and determination.
Carolim’s professional career began in Venezuela, where she worked in international business. With strong skills in the corporate sector and a results-oriented mindset, she enjoyed her work but also dreamed of new opportunities.
However, economic and political challenges led her to make a difficult decision: emigrate to the United States. "Leaving my country was not easy, but I knew it was necessary. I wanted to build something bigger for myself and my family," Carolim says.
Once settled in Florida, Carolim dreamed of starting her own business. During that time, she met two people who introduced her to the world of health insurance. Although she was initially hesitant, as she was focused on other projects, something inside her told her that this was the right path.
With her health insurance license and later her Property and Casualty license, Carolim prepared herself for new challenges, although she didn’t yet realize how transformative this decision would be.
“I spent six weeks studying to earn my health insurance license. It was an intense process, but I was determined to achieve it. I even faced issues at work because I used my breaks to study. I almost got fired, but nothing stopped me,” she remembered.
In search of greater opportunities, Carolim moved to Dallas, Texas. There, she started from scratch, facing challenges that tested her resilience. “I arrived in a new city with no family, no friends, and an uncertain future, but I knew I had to move forward,” she shares.
During her first year in Dallas, she worked as a retail manager, facing workweeks of up to 65 hours. Despite her limited time, she never lost sight of her goal to focus on insurance. "I knew this sacrifice would be worth it. I kept telling myself that once I was financially stable, I would make the leap to what I really wanted to do," she explains.
In 2021, Carolim received an offer to work as a captive agent at CVS Pharmacy. The position combined a base salary with commissions, an attractive opportunity that she accepted to gain experience in the industry.
However, there was an additional challenge: the language barrier. "I didn’t speak fluent English, but I knew I had to overcome that obstacle. I learned through practice, by observing and listening. Today, I can propose a plan and communicate with any client, even if my English isn’t perfect," she says proudly.
The true turning point in Carolim’s professional life came in 2022 when she received a call from José Ruiz, CEO of Benefits & Care. “José reached out because he had heard about my work and wanted to meet with me. From the very beginning, I felt it was a unique opportunity. He shared his vision with me and offered me a chance to join his team,” she recalls.
Despite receiving offers from other large agencies, Carolim decided to take a chance on José and Benefits & Care. "Something told me this was the right place. José not only provides us with resources but is also always available to support us. I’m deeply grateful for the trust he placed in me," she says.
This marked the birth of Dallas Strategies, a partner agency of Benefits & Care, based in Dallas. Since then, Carolim has built a team of 10 agents dedicated to her vision of delivering exceptional and high-quality service to their clients.
Carolim describes her team as a family united by a common purpose. "It’s not just a job; it’s a commitment. My team is made up of talented individuals who share my passion and vision," she explains.
Building a strong team has not been easy. Carolim admits she has had to turn down individuals who did not demonstrate the necessary commitment. "I prefer to work with people who truly value this opportunity. It’s a demanding job, and we need to be aligned to achieve our goals."
Carolim doesn’t forget the support she has received from Benefits & Care, especially from José Ruiz. "José has not only provided us with resources but has also transmitted his dedication and effort to our team in Dallas. Thanks to him, we’ve been able to grow and establish a solid foundation," she expresses.
She also gratefully acknowledges other team members who have been fundamental to her success: Sandra Vengoechea, Jorge Ruiz P, Jorge Ruiz B, and Alfredo Rojas. "Each one of them has played an important role in our journey. I’m deeply thankful for their help and commitment," she adds.
With her team firmly established and the support of Benefits & Care, Carolim is excited about the future. "Dallas Strategies has a bright future. We will continue working, growing, and helping more people. Every sacrifice has been worth it, and I know the best is yet to come," she concludes.
At Benefits & Care, we are deeply grateful to have Carolim Mendoza, for her tireless effort, unwavering commitment, and exceptional leadership. Her work has not only been key to the growth of Dallas Strategies but has also left a significant mark on our agency. Through her self-sufficiency, responsibility, intelligence, and professionalism, she has strengthened our values and made a meaningful difference in the lives of agents and clients. Thank you, Carolim, for being an inspiration to all of us!
