A first-generation Latina looking to make a positive change in the world. One voice at-a-time. One story at-a-time. One connection at-at-time.  Based in Houston, Raquel has dedicated herself to healthcare advocacy and healthcare education for the last 12 years. 

Having a multi-lingual background, she has been able to expand her reach by educating different neighborhood groups around the Houston area. Through her efforts, many members of the communities who otherwise would go without proper health care have benefitted from her advocacy and received health services.  Her efforts have decreased the high percentage of members who go without basic health needs. 

She works directly with state, city, county, and other local officials to educate communities on important health topics. Raquel is also involved in active research in partnership with various entities such as her world-renowned alma mater Texas A&M University, BakerRipley, and the City of Houston.  This active research aims to identify the external environmental factors which may cause physical stressors on the elderly when participating in physical activities within their communities. Based on the results of the research, enhancements will be made to improve the neighborhood surroundings to be more age-friendly. 

Raquel possesses excellent leadership skills and is looking forward to building a coachable team that will increase the reach potential thus expanding the efforts of her "Mission with a vision". She looks forward to empowering women and contribute globally to spread her message of love and kindness to the world.

Raquel has called Houston her home for the last 30 years. She is a sports enthusiast and labels herself "gung-ho" about all things "Aggies".  Avid salsa dancer. Foodie. Lives with her furbabies and children. Enjoys the beach and quality time exploring the city and seeking adventures. Raquel is currently working on publishing her book and looks forward to sharing her life journey through speaking engagements.

Raquel "Raqi" Flores

Brilliant Beam Media

Strategic Social Media Consultant for effective and engaging B2B and B2C messaging. I help businesses take social media messaging into business results.

Social Media Director

Lena's Foundation

Ambassador

The Influencers' Connection Corner

Influencer Marketing. Livestreaming. Consulting. Brand Ambassador.

Business Influencer For Impact

Texas A&M University

A project that will study how the built environment affects older people in terms of their ability to be more physically active. These insights will be used to develop and evaluate intervention strategies (e.g. design, policy, and technology) to create age-friendly communities). Partners: Texas A&M University, University of Michigan, City of Houston, and BakerRipley.

Research Collaborator

Tech Fest Live

Walking Tall Movement

Walking Tall Movement Ambassador for the Latino community worldwide.

The Outlier Project

Member

Raquel Ideal Care

Healthcare consultant and healthcare advocate. Raquel Ideal Care LLC specializes in guiding clients through the health system in order to get access to quality healthcare for them or their loved ones. We pay special focus to members in underserved populations such as the elderly/disabled.

FOUNDER/CEO

FCC OF TEXAS

Home Health Care Manager

MEDICAL INSIGHTS & CARE UNLIMITED INC

Assistant Manager. Home Health Care Agency.

Healthcare Professional

Turning Authenticity into Influence | Houston Sports Gal | Fierce Mental Health Advocate| | "LIVE, LOVE, LEAD" | OWN Your Essence | | Encouraging humanity to "Educate, Empower, and Uplift".

As a Social Media Director at Brilliant Beam Media, my days are fueled by crafting strategies that not only captivate but also drive results for both B2B and B2C ventures. Fluent in Spanish-speaking and Spanish to English translation, I've had the privilege of bridging cultural gaps and amplifying brand voices across diverse audiences.

Beyond the boardroom, I wear the badges of a Walking Tall Movement Ambassador and a proud member of The Outlier Project with immense pride. These roles aren't just titles; they're opportunities to pay it forward. My heart beats for empowering fellow Latino entrepreneurs, especially the resilient women who navigate through cultural and personal barriers with grace and grit.

Through the intimate avenues of my podcast, coaching sessions, and the pages of my soon-to-be-released book, "Culture Clash," I don't just share stories—I share journeys. My own journey from the tumultuous streets of El Salvador to the corridors of opportunity in the United States serves as a beacon of hope. But more importantly, it's a roadmap for those who dare to dream, guiding them from the realm of possibility to the realm of action.

My mission is simple yet profound: to give voice to the voiceless, to provide platforms for the overlooked, and to equip aspiring entrepreneurs with the tools they need to thrive. And as we continue on this transformative journey together, let's not forget the power of community. On LinkedIn, I've cultivated not just connections but a family—a tribe of diverse souls united by shared dreams and mutual support.

Join me, not just as a spectator, but as a fellow architect of change. Together, let's shatter barriers, rewrite narratives, and pave the way for a future where every dream is not just realized but celebrated.

Benita Lee Professional Services

🌍 International Import/Export Operations strategy
🌎 Trade Compliance & Supply Chain specialist
🌍 Dual-designated Certified Customs Specialist (CCS), in Canada & the U.S.
🌍 Business Development Services & Social media strategy

Management Advisor

Canadian Heavy Oil Association

▪️Content writer
▪️Social Media campaigns / Event promotions
▪️Digital Engagement 
▪️Audience Growth

Social Media Communications

Supply Chain Canada - West

▪️Campaign membership renewals
▪️Promote and participate in Supply Chain Canada - West events: 
     HACK•A•THONS -Bill S-211, Fighting against Forced Labour in Supply Chains, Shortages in Trade
     Post-It Events

Industry Specialist, Trade Compliance 

Progressive Plan International

• Management Advisor (Fractional Role)
• Subject Matter Expert on cross-border trade and supply chain management 
• Relationship Development

TRADE FORWARD

▪️ Canadian Subject Matter Expert, Trade Compliance
▪️ Chemical Classification Specialist 
▪️ Software reseller of Trade Analytics tool

Contract Specialist

Inter Pipeline

🔵 Supported the Midstream Marketing group to understand non-resident import challenges for commodities imported into USA  (Exports)
🔴 Supported Heartland Petrochemical operations and transportation group to manage Customs Broker support in pre-commissioning stages of a mega project in Alberta (Imports)

Consultant (Trade Compliance Project)

Trican Well Service Ltd. (Oil & Gas Services)

🌎 Governance of US & CAN Importer Numbers and associated NRIs 
🔵 Recovered 2 Mil USD in unresolved TIB claims over 6 months
🌏 Export Sanctions (EU, CA, US on Russia) 
🌍 Dismantle EMEA Operations and repatriate physical assets
🌎 Free Trade Programs management

Sr. Customs & Compliance Specialist

Cenovus Energy

🔴 CEI & FCCL Upstream Operations (Supply Chain Management unit)
🔵 CEMSL Midstream Operations (Marketing, Transportation & Power unit)
Customs Compliance Advice & Analysis of end to end value chain - from exploration, production to shipment into US market.

Customs Compliance Advisor

Agrium

(Now Nutrien)
🌎 Wholesale/Retail/Supply-Chain/Sales & Distribution, Global Logistics, Customs & Trade  Compliance roles

Six different positions with 4 different departments over a 15 year span: 

• Facilities Management
• Energy Raw Materials & Supply Chain Mgt. 
• Sales & Distribution / Global Logistics 
• Global Customs Compliance

Analyst/Advisor, MM, Supply Chain, Global Logistics & Distribution, Customs Compliance 

Murphy Oil, Marine Logistics & Customs

🌏 Academic research and business analysis  (Marine Logistics & Customs unit) 
🌏 White paper on socioeconomic conditions of offshore projects in SE Asia and China
🌏 White paper: The Female Expatriate Advantage (received an A+ for academic & work experience)

Marine Logistics & Customs Analyst

Management Consultant | Trade Compliance Professional | Certified Customs Specialist in Canada & United States (CCS) | End-to-end Supply Chain Management | Avid Reader

With a quarter of a century of experience in supply chain, customs and trade compliance,
Benita Lee helps companies navigate the complex regulatory landscape of global trade. 

As businesses expand internationally and technologies reshape supply chains, her work
ensures that operations remain compliant, efficient, and future-ready.

A Certified Customs Specialist in both the U.S. and Canada, she has advised companies
across upstream, midstream, and refinery sectors on trade compliance governance, risk
mitigation, HS classification, free trade agreements, and ERP/GTM system alignment.

Use the blue "schedule a meeting" link under profile picture. The fee will be credited to your first invoice. 

Purchase a block of 10 to 20 hours per month and receive a discounted rate. 

Unused hours roll over to next month and never expire.

Benita Lee, B. Mgt., CCS

𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗲 𝗶𝘀 𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗱. Connection makes it easy. 🤝

I’m thrilled to be joining a powerhouse panel in Calgary on November 26th | 3 to 6 pm MST to unpack real-world strategies for navigating import tariffs and trade complexity. Sabrina A. Bandali, a leading trade lawyer from Bennett Jones will be speaking followed by what will likely be a lively panel - Kevin Orr, Greg Gerritsen, CITP, LCB, Mackenzie West and myself.  

Hosted by GHY International, this in-person event brings together industry leaders, compliance experts, and cross-border problem-solvers to share insights that matter. 

Let's dive into the tactics that help importers move with confidence -especially in today’s shifting regulatory landscape.

Whether you're a seasoned trade professional or just starting out, this is a chance to connect, learn, and elevate your impact. Professional Development points are available.  Bonus points for those who bring their leaders and CEOs. 😜- I'll be inviting mine.  

If you're in Calgary or nearby, I’d love to see you there. Drop a comment if you're attending or message me if you'd like to connect at the event! 

Link to register in comments. Don't miss this opportunity.  💡

#SupplyChain #TradeCompliance #Networking #CalgaryEvents #GlobalTrade

Benita  Lee, B. Mgt., Certified Customs Specialist, US/CA

Trade Advisor | Helping organizations grow—through compliance, connection, and communication | Proud Energy Ambassador

𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗧𝗢𝗥 𝗛𝗢𝗨𝗥 last week was uplifting, so I had to share for Wellness Wednesday.   

Thank you to Lori Ann LaRocco for inviting me to spend an hour with her incredible students at the Pollee and Rose Allen School of Logistics and Trade. 

Their curiosity, energy, and willingness to ask big questions reminded me why mentorship matters so much.

There’s something special about being in a space where people are not only learning the rules of trade - but learning how to build confidence, courage, and community along the way. 

That’s the kind of hour that makes my heart smile. 
It also reminded me of one of the most meaningful messages in Lori Ann and Abbey's book, "Embracing Your Past to Empower Your Future":
that our experiences - the wins, the struggles, the detours - can become fuel for someone else's journey.

If you haven’t read it yet, I highly recommend it.
Every purchase also contributes to the “Each One, Teach One” stipend, which helps students buy textbooks and continue their education. A small act that makes a big difference. 💞

Here’s to paying knowledge forward. To lifting as we climb and to every student out there building their future, one question at a time.  

For more detail about the school, the book and the stipend: https://lnkd.in/g88yfNeY

Giving to others, creates wellness beyond measure.  Who's read TRADE WAR or any of Lori Ann's books?  

#WellnessWednesday #Mentorship #GlobalTrade #Logistics

So pumped to be on this panel discussion next week.  It's not every day we get to hear Sabrina A. Bandali in Calgary!  Let's connect over BBQ, CCS points and #TradeTalk.  

#Networking #Panel #ProfessionalDevelopment

🚀 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝗡𝗘𝗫𝗧 𝗪𝗘𝗘𝗞 — 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘄𝗲’𝗿𝗲 𝗯𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗽𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗱𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗖𝗮𝗹𝗴𝗮𝗿𝘆. If you work in international trade or customs, this is the room you want to be in. 

🎙️ 𝗙𝗲𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗻 𝗲𝘅𝗰𝗲𝗽𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗿 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘂𝗽:

✅ 𝗞𝗲𝘆𝗻𝗼𝘁𝗲 𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗿: Sabrina A. Bandali — delivering a timely, insider-level look at Canada-U.S. trade policy and what to expect heading into the 2026 CUSMA review.

✅ 𝗥𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱-𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗶𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀:
 • Kevin Orr
 • Greg Gerritsen, CITP, LCB
 • Benita Lee, B. Mgt., Certified Customs Specialist, US/CA

Sharing real-world perspectives, real cases, and what’s actually happening on the ground.

💬 𝗡𝗼 𝗳𝗹𝘂𝗳𝗳. Just smart conversations, candid stories, and high-value networking over BBQ and drinks.

🎯 𝗪𝗵𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝘆𝗼𝘂’𝗿𝗲 𝗱𝗲𝗲𝗽 𝗶𝗻 𝗰𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗺𝘀 𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗴𝘆, 𝗱𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘁𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗳𝗳 𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗳𝘁𝘀, 𝗼𝗿 𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗰𝗿𝗼𝘀𝘀-𝗯𝗼𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲, 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝘂𝗶𝗹𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘆𝗼𝘂.

🪑 𝗦𝗲𝗮𝘁𝘀 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗹𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗱 — 𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻 𝟱 𝗖𝗖𝗦 𝗽𝗼𝗶𝗻𝘁𝘀 + 𝟱 𝗖𝗧𝗖𝗦 𝗰𝗿𝗲𝗱𝗶𝘁𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴.

👉 𝗥𝗲𝗴𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗻𝗼𝘄: https://lnkd.in/gJECYmb7

Connect next week and dive into the issues shaping North American trade.

Benita Lee, B. Mgt., Certified Customs Specialist, US/CA

My two cents on the IEEPA tariffs - if importers want refunds, they should create a General Ledger line named "Tariffs" separate from "Freight", separate from "Duties" and any other fees.  

The thought came to me when I watched the interview embedded into this article last year's IEEPA tariffs paid = zero, 2025 IEEPA Expenses = 14 million USD.  

Track your taxes paid.  

Tonight is the night, MENTOR HOUR with Lori Ann LaRocco.  The students have read this article and I'm going to hear their thoughts and share mine.  I'm so excited.  

#ThursdayThoughts share yours with me!

Open article: If the Supreme Court orders Trump to repay tariffs, U.S. importers say it wouldn't be 'messy' by cnb.cx

If the Supreme Court orders Trump to repay tariffs, U.S. importers say it wouldn't be 'messy'

Couldn't make it to Mexico, don't worry - we've got you covered ‼️

Come to the post-conference event, hear about the take aways, hear from speakers, meet professionals in our industry AND get an exclusive early-bird discount for the next ICPA, Inc - International Compliance Professionals Association conference in the spring.  

You might even snag a free pass!  
Next stop: San Antonio, TX ✈️

Register Now: https://lnkd.in/eaqEC3h9
Don't forget cameras and audio ON!  💻

#VirtualNetworking #TradeCompliance #USMCA

𝑶𝒏𝒍𝒚 𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒔 𝒂𝒘𝒂𝒚... your FREE virtual networking event pass is waiting. You might have missed MIC Customs Solutions' MEXICO SEMINAR: Navigating the Trade Landscape, but you don't have to miss the after-party.  

Register now for a chance to win a pass to ICPA, Inc - International Compliance Professionals Association Annual in San Antonio for 2026.  

Lila Landis, LCB CUSECO® CCEP-I CGSS | Elisabeth Sherrell, CED, CCS | Alyson Hachey | Brenda Cordova | Francisco de la Cruz 

Register and add to your calendar: https://lnkd.in/eaqEC3h9

#CustomsCompliance #USMCA #VirtualNetworking

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