Introduction: A Journey of Resilience
Camilla Costa, a Brazilian entrepreneur, has made significant strides in the real estate sector of Lisbon, Portugal. Having moved from São Paulo a decade ago, she transformed her passion for architecture and investments into a successful career. At just 31 years old, she is the CEO of HillForte, a boutique real estate consultancy that caters to both local and international clients.
From Brazil to Portugal: The Beginning
Camilla’s journey began in 2015 when she left Brazil to study architecture in Lisbon. This move was a pivotal moment that introduced her to the world of real estate—a field she had not previously considered. She recalls, “The first year was the most challenging. I had to open my mind to understand that things work differently in Portugal and that navigating the bureaucracy could be difficult.”
Early Challenges and Learning Curves
Adjusting to life in a new country was not easy for Camilla. Being away from her family and friends posed emotional challenges, especially during initial hardships. Yet, she viewed these obstacles as opportunities for growth. Initially pursuing a degree in international relations, she found her true passion in architecture and soon became involved in several real estate projects. A notable incident involved mistakenly leading a client to the wrong property, which unexpectedly turned into a successful sale, highlighting the sometimes serendipitous nature of her career.
Overcoming Gender and Cultural Barriers
Operating in a male-dominated industry as a young Brazilian woman has its unique set of challenges. Camilla has faced numerous instances of discrimination, including being mistaken for a subordinate rather than the CEO. “I have lost count of how many times I was dismissed based on my accent or assumed to be less capable solely because I am a woman,” she shares. However, these experiences have fueled her drive to succeed and empower others.
Building HillForte: A Unique Vision
Three years ago, Camilla founded HillForte without external funding or partners. The company thrives on providing comprehensive real estate consultancy services, guiding clients through every stage of property acquisition. From the initial search to handing over the keys, HillForte aims to make the real estate experience seamless and rewarding.
Embracing the Golden Visa Opportunity
Recognizing a growing demand for the Golden Visa program, which offers residency to non-EU investors, Camilla integrated this service into HillForte’s offerings. She states, “My previous experience in private equity, where I was involved in raising €75 million, intensified my interest in the real estate market.” Today, HillForte not only provides access to an array of eligible funds but also collaborates with strategic legal partners for comprehensive client support.
Future Goals and Expansion
Camilla’s vision for HillForte is ambitious. She aspires to further expand the company’s footprint in the Portuguese real estate market while continuing to support her diverse team, composed mainly of women and immigrants. “We prove every day that we belong in this market and can achieve greatness together in Portugal,” she affirms.
Conclusion: A Role Model for Future Generations
Camilla Costa’s story is one of determination and vision. As she leads her team towards success in Lisbon’s competitive real estate sector, her journey serves as an inspiration for many aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women and immigrants. Her commitment to excellence and resilience challenges the status quo, paving the way for a more inclusive industry.
