By: Cathy Cena & Geneviève Kyle-Lefebvre Earlier this year, the Faces: Tri-Cities Co-Authored Stories book was launched in celebration of International Women’s Day. Created by co-curators Geneviève Kyle-Lefebvre and Cathy Cena, the project brought together 50 local women to share their lived experiences and highlight the often-overlooked civic contributions shaping the Tri-Cities. More than a book, Faces is a call to collective action and a platform for community voices often underrepresented and unheard. As part of the post-launch interview series, Geneviève and Cathy had the pleasure of sitting down with Belén Welch-Almeida, a dynamic entrepreneur, economic development advisor, and community connector whose story brings a global lens to local leadership.

“This was never just about telling stories,” Belén shared. “It’s about civic visibility. Faces makes space for the voices that fuel our neighborhoods, our businesses, and our city-building.” Originally from Ecuador, Belén has worked across Canada before establishing roots in Port Coquitlam. With experience supporting more than 70 startups per year and advising Canadian companies on expansion and intellectual property, she understands the intersection of entrepreneurship, mentorship, and economic impact. Yet her focus remains grounded in people—especially newcomers and women striving to contribute meaningfully to their community. Her quote in the Faces book, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together,” reflects her belief in collective growth. Whether guiding entrepreneurs, building inclusive business ecosystems, or mentoring rising leaders, Belén brings people together with purpose.

As a former board member of the Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce, she continues to advocate for infrastructure that supports civic and economic participation: co-working labs, startup incubators, and spaces that let people innovate where they live. “We need more than retail and housing,” she said. “We need spaces that invite people to stay, build, and lead in their own city.” Her civic engagement includes volunteering with Ronald McDonald House, participating in the Poco Running Group, and supporting community well-being through mentorship and inclusion initiatives.

She sees these roles not as side activities but as integral parts of her commitment to a stronger, more connected Tri-Cities. To newcomers and young women, her advice is simple but powerful: “Build your community. Don’t wait for permission. Start where you are and lift others as you go.” Belén Welch-Almeida is more than a co-author of the Faces book. She is a civic builder, a mentor, and a powerful reminder that lasting change begins when local voices rise together. Tri-Cities Community Television is a volunteer-run media group based in the Tri-Cities region. Our mission is to support community-driven video content and independent local news stories.