From Vision to Wellness: Building Hope Through Entrepreneurship

When Dr. Marlena launched Eucalyptus Hope and Wellness in 2026, she set out with a powerful mission: to create products, services, and experiences that support people wherever they are on their wellness journey. While completing her Doctor of Social Work degree at USC and working full-time as a therapist, she transformed her passion for mental health, creativity, and healing into two businesses: Eucalyptus Hope and Wellness, A Licensed Clinical Social Worker Professional Corporation and Eucalyptus Hope and Wellness, LLC.

Marlena’s entrepreneurial journey was inspired by a family legacy of hard work, faith, creativity, and service. Growing up, she watched her mother and stepfather operate their own beauty business, where she learned firsthand the value of perseverance, customer service, and entrepreneurship. Her mother’s creativity, resilience, and unwavering encouragement sparked Marlena’s passion for helping others and creating meaningful products and experiences. Influenced by family members who modeled leadership, business ownership, faith, and community service, Marlena developed a vision of building businesses that promote hope, wellness, and personal growth while making a positive impact in the lives of others.

Since becoming a client of the NEW Women’s Business Center in March 2026, Marlena has actively invested in her entrepreneurial growth by participating in 16 workshops, trainings, and networking events. She successfully completed the 12 Steps for Launching a Business Training Series, earning her Certificate of Completion while gaining valuable knowledge in business planning, branding, financing, marketing, and business development. With the support and resources provided through WBC, Marlena successfully launched both Eucalyptus Hope and Wellness, LLC and Eucalyptus Hope and Wellness, A Licensed Clinical Social Worker Professional Corporation in 2026. Through her engagement with WBC programs and events, she has strengthened her entrepreneurial skills, expanded her professional network, and built a solid foundation for the continued growth and success of her businesses.

WBC’s support helped Marlena move from having a vision to building a structured plan for long-term success. Through workshops, networking opportunities, and one-on-one guidance, she expanded her understanding of entrepreneurship, connected with fellow business owners, and gained confidence as she launched both businesses.

One of her most memorable experiences was attending EmpowerHER: Women Business Owners as CEOs, where she was inspired by the power of community, collaboration, and women supporting one another’s success.