A Bergen County woman, who is building a business empire in the U.S. after leaving her country with nothing, spoke with News 12 about her journey to success.

Belisa Gonzalez left the Dominican Republic at just 14 years old. Instead of finishing school, she went straight to work to help support her family.

"I came here when I was 14 years old and I don't think at that age you have a grand vision for your life," she says. "But I know someone who did and that was my mom."

That same determination and hustle eventually led Gonzalez, now in her 30s, and her husband to open Summer Blends, a popular Glen Rock spot serving protein waffles, shakes, and other healthy options. She wanted to create a place where everyone feels at home.

But Summer Blends is just one piece of her success. Gonzalez also founded Monarca Ulje, a hair care brand born in her garage from a single product she created to heal her own hair.

Today, Monarca Ulje has grown into a full line, shampoos, conditioners, serums, and masks reaching thousands of customers across the U.S., Canada, and even her native Dominican Republic.

Her message to others chasing their own dreams: "If it happened for her, it can happen for them too."