One of the many ways that workers are trying to get ahead in these tough economic times is to create their own small businesses. While there are many challenges to creating new ventures, this alternative is often best suited to the strong work ethic that many Latinos bring when they come to this country and inspire in their children.

In San Francisco, reporter Robynn Takayama found a daughter of Chilean immigrants who once owned her own business but left that behind to get her college degree. Instead of entering the shaky job market after graduation, she decided to reopen her old business. Her name is Paula Tejeda. But she’s better known as the “Girl from Empanada.”

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To listen to and watch a related slideshow produced by Robynn Takayama, click on the photo below.