MassLive recently asked readers to identify people they consider Hispanic and Latino leaders in Massachusetts, working to make a difference across the state.
Profiles of these leaders will be published over the course of Hispanic Heritage Month from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15. These are people readers have identified as inspirational, who may be doing good acts for their communities. They are being recognized for their accomplishments, leadership and commitment to inspire change.
Julio César Román-Ríos
Julio César Román-Ríos, founder and owner of Micro Plant Studio in South Boston.Courtesy Photo
Age: 47
Community: Boston
His story: Julio César Román-Ríos has gone from humble beginnings to running one of the most prosperous plant companies in the region.
He is an award-winning artist, web designer, community engagement strategist, plant enthusiast and member of the LGBTQ+ community.
But perhaps his biggest title is founder and owner of the renowned Micro Plant Studio in South Boston, which is more than just a culmination of his life’s work.
“In 2017, after undergoing an unexpected surgery, Julio found comfort, optimism, and happiness in caring for his growing collection of succulent and tropical plants,” he told MassLive. “As an artist, he became fascinated by the biology of succulents and began experimenting with propagation, using cool glass tubes and other containers. Soon, his small studio apartment was filled with plants, and he began photographing them alongside his collectible tiny toys, creating dramatic environments.”
Micro Plant Studio is the first Latinx-owned plant business in New England and the first plant store to 3D design and print plant products, according to the store’s website.
The business has been featured in the Chronicle, Boston Globe, ABC and Meet Boston. Boston Magazine named Micro Plant Studio as the Best Indoor Plants in 2020 as well.
Outside of his work Mirco Plant Studio, Román-Ríos “is deeply committed to helping others develop social and emotional skills, feel safe, and find career opportunities.”
Román-Ríos was born in Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, and grew up in Hartford, Connecticut.
Raised by a single mother, Román-Ríos was the first man in his family to attend college, earning a diploma in fine arts and a bachelor of fine arts from the School of the Museum of Fine Arts at Tufts University in Boston. He later earned a master’s of public policy from Tufts University and went on to work with several non-profit organizations like Sociedad Latina, Inquilinos Boricuas en Acción and Year Up, before launching his own business.
In his own words: “Success does not follow a linear trajectory but rather resembles mountainous terrain with various challenges along the way. Sometimes, reaching a goal may require a longer, more intricate route, often leading to the most valuable lessons.”
We’re always open to hearing about more inspiring people. If you’d like to suggest someone else who should be recognized, please fill out this form.
