From Jersey Roots to the Financial Industry Clara Sierra, CEO, BluPerl Enterprises, LLC
By Gloria Romano-Barrera
Clara Sierra’s journey from a first-generation Afro Latina in New Jersey to a trailblazer in the financial industry is a testament to the power of authentic leadership. As CEO of BluPerl, Enterprises, LLC, Sierra stands as a beacon for Latinas in the financial industry—a field where, as she notes, “very few women of color” and “no Latinas” were present when she began her career.
Clara Sierra at the 2025 ALPFA Convention.
Born and raised in New Jersey to Dominican parents who immigrated in the early 1960s, Sierra’s journey was shaped by her family’s perseverance. “We get knocked down nine times, we get up 10,” she shares, crediting her parents’ resilience during the race riots in the 1960s and how their strength inspired her to overcome daily challenges.
Sierra’s path into finance began unexpectedly with a friend’s suggestion. Driven to expand opportunities for Latinos and Latinas in the industry, she built expertise in portfolio management, asset raising, sales, and client relations over 30 years. As CEO of BluPerl Enterprises, LLC, she leads the efforts in consulting asset & wealth managers on strategic planning and sales initiatives. And most recently, launching an early careers coaching program to bring more Latinos and Latinas into the financial services industry.
“I've been so blessed with so much,” she shares. “My greatest accomplishments in the financial services industry is twofold: being ableto grow the bottom line for our clients and being able to grow the incredible network of clients, colleagues, and friends within an industry I love. I'm most proud of showing the financial services industry that women of color, that Afro Latinas, can grow this industry, which I've done over the past 30 years. I have a responsibility to talk about the financial services industry. I am proud of the industry. I am proud of the work. As a role model, I have a responsibility to shed light on the fact that there's room for all of us here. We have to take those opportunities when presented to us.”
For Sierra, leadership begins with curiosity and a dedication to continuous growth. She also believes that true leaders not only master their own work but also understand the broader ecosystem.
“Be curious about your role and your craft,” she shares. “Be curious about the supporting roles. Be curious about leadership roles. I think that’s very, very important. Don’t get so blinded by the one thing that you do and you don’t understand the entire ecosystem. What is the impact of your role on other roles?”
Representation and mentorship are central for Sierra. Her leadership philosophy centers on building community and meaningful professional relationships, rather than merely attending social events. She views these connections as foundational for effective leadership.
“If you can’t see it, you can’t be it,” she says, highlighting the importance of visible role models for underrepresented groups. She encourages aspiring leaders to seek out guidance: “Get a coach, get a mentor, get a sponsor. It will change the trajectory of your career.” Sierra’s commitment to inclusive leadership extends beyond her own success. She emphasizes the importance of building a network and lifting others as you climb.
“While I’m coming up in my career, while I’m coming up in my community, I need to see people that are coming up behind me and go, Hey, let me just share my experience,” she shares. “Ask me any questions you want.” Despite the evolving challenges in corporate America, Sierra remains steadfast in her values.
“Life and business are always evolving,” she shares. “You have to continue to show up and show out and be proud of your work and be proud of your identity, and all of these things can coexist for greatness.”
Her message to Latinas and all aspiring leaders is to keep going. “Don’t stop. We stumble. Get back up,” she shares. “We get frustrated. We get overlooked. Dust yourself off and keep going.” As she says, “If you can’t see it, you can’t be it.” Thanks to leaders like Sierra, the future for Latinas in finance is brighter than ever.
“Whether it’s closing a deal, leading a team, hosting a podcast, or mentoring the next generation, my goal is to bring energy, engagement, and expertise to add value to the people I meet,” she shares.