When you speak to Bryan Flores, you instantly feel the heart behind every word. Originally from Puerto Rico, Bryan came to the U.S. during high school, knowing only one English phrase: “How are you?” But it was clear from early on—language wasn’t going to hold him back from making a difference.
After years in the banking world, Bryan had built what many would consider a successful corporate career. But something felt off. “It never felt like I was helping,” he admits. That’s when fate stepped in—through a CrossFit gym. The gym’s owners, also founders of The Grow Group, introduced him to the nonprofit’s mission: helping individuals with disabilities secure meaningful employment. That’s when Bryan found what he had been missing—purpose.
Through his work with The Grow Group, Bryan became a job coach, assisting clients with everything from building résumés to practicing interviews, and even coaching employers on how to best support team members with accommodations. Over time, his dedication and impact became undeniable. But Bryan didn’t stop there. Recognizing the broader need, The Grow Group expanded its mission to support underrepresented communities—including Latinos and African Americans—on their path to professional success.
One of Bryan’s proudest contributions is leading the Latinos in Finance program, launched in 2022 in partnership with UnidosUS and Bank of America. This initiative trains participants in career skills while providing something that many often overlook: access to technology. “We’ve given away 173 laptops so far,” he beams. “We’re the only city in the U.S. running this program that does that.” For many participants, a laptop isn’t just a device—it’s a gateway to opportunity.
And those opportunities are transforming lives. Bryan shares the story of a young woman who went from working as a cashier making $15 an hour to landing a $25/hour job with Bank of America. “That changes everything—not just for her, but for her whole family.”
As a Puerto Rican who once struggled to find his voice in a corporate environment, Bryan understands the importance of representation and self-worth. “For a long time, I didn’t feel like I belonged,” he recalls. “But once I learned to be myself—to be authentic—everything changed.” His advice to other Latinos? Don’t try to hide who you are to fit in. “You can learn a new culture, a new language, but never lose your roots.”
Bryan also emphasizes the role of community in his journey. This year, he became more involved with the Tampa Bay Latin Chamber, seeking to expand his network and learn from others. “It’s been amazing,” he says. “I’ve grown so much just by connecting with people, hearing new perspectives, and collaborating with other professionals who care deeply about our community.”
Looking ahead, Bryan is excited to take Latinos in Finance even further. The program will soon include FinTech and cybersecurity components, reflecting the evolving needs of today’s workforce. “We’re not just placing people in jobs. We’re preparing them for sustainable, future-ready careers.”
What drives Bryan every day is simple: impact. Whether it’s helping a homeless client get their first apartment, coaching someone through their first interview, or offering a word of encouragement, Bryan shows up with heart. “There’s no such thing as failure,” he says. “Only learning.”
In a world that often pushes conformity, Bryan Flores reminds us that authenticity, service, and compassion are what truly open doors. His story is a testament to what happens when you stop chasing titles and start changing lives. And for Bryan, that journey has only just begun.
To learn more about The Grow Group, visit www.thegrowgroup.org
Written by Paula Sofia Gómez, MBA², IT PMP®, CSM®
Certified in Cybersecurity by (ISC)², Singer & Songwriter
www.paulasofiasinger.com | @paulasofiasinger
