Meet Vanessa Santiago of Wepa Fit in Central Phoenix

Today we’d like to introduce you to Vanessa Santiago.

Vanessa, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I began my interest in nutrition as a teenager while experiencing the loss of family members due to chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and cancer. I was present throughout their treatments and recovery and at that moment, I decided that disease was not going to be part of my life, I was always reading health magazines, learning about supplements, and encouraging my friends to exercise with me. I decided to study Nutrition and Dietetics and combined it with Physical Education. In 2002 after completing my degrees at the University of Puerto Rico, I moved to AZ with my two little daughters 3 and 7 years old. Although I knew English, I couldn’t speak it which I didn’t realize until I moved here lol. It was very though, as a single mom in a foreign country and the language barrier. I had to rely on food stamps and work cleaning houses or at very low paid jobs while pursuing a masters degree in Public Health with an emphasis on community education and health promotion.

I also got certified as a Personal Trainer and Group Exercise instructor. I have worked as a health coach for the Wellness Council of AZ, as an adjunct Faculty for Maricopa Community Colleges, I was also part of a research program at ASU School of Nutrition, and as an independent contractor for the City of Scottsdale.

In 2015, I created Wepa Fit to empower women to feel good in their own skin. Wepa fit it’s about looking good AND feeling good with a focus on educating individuals about gut health and using food as medicine. Wepa fit was the result of wanting to own my time and getting paid what I think I am worthwhile helping others live a healthier life.

At the present time, I run my business from anywhere I want (online) and I am part of a virtual/radio show called “Nosotras Las Mujeres ” and I am a real state investor. My daughters are now 20 and 24 years and I am a happy single mom and business woman.

I am juice plus a franchise owner, which misión is to help individuals Bridge the gap between what they and we really should eat. It’s a Vegan company that prepares fruits and vegetables in capsules or gummies (children eat free).

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It was NOT smooth at all. First coming to the states with $1,000.00 and two babies, no job or family. Learning the language to the point of feeling comfortable to interview for a real job took me six years! Being a single parent trying to raise two girls in such a corrupted world was the hardest.

Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Wepa Fit – what should we know?
I specialize in helping business owners transform their bodies and take control of their health in only 13 weeks. I write individualized fitness and meal plans, provide health coaching, help people clean their kitchens, grocery store tours/label reading and I am known for being a vegan bodybuilder, eating fruits and vegetables and teaching nutrition classes. 🙂

What sets me apart from others is that I lead by example.

What is your favorite childhood memory?
Going to the beach with my dad and brother.

Contact Info:

• Website: wepafit.com www.vsantiago.juiceplus.com
• Phone: 480-236-7397
• Email: wepafit2018@gmail.com
• Instagram: wepa fit

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