Dori Araiza

Between launching her own advertising firm at just 23, raising four children, and supporting events such as the Cattle Baron’s Ball, Dori Araiza has plenty to be proud of.

Now, Araiza hopes to give Dallas sports fans something to be proud of, as well. She and her family have founded Dallas Trinity FC, the city’s first professional women’s soccer team.

As part of the new USL Super League, Dallas Trinity FC competes at the highest level of women’s soccer globally. Araiza oversees the marketing side of the business, which includes merchandise, advertising, marketing, social media, events, player appearances, and sponsorships.

“It’s opened my world to a whole new sphere of community,” Araiza said. “I work with all kinds of charities in all different capacities. We have been focusing on organizations related to women, sports, and specifically the Dallas community.”

Outside of her professional achievements, service plays a vital role in Araiza’s life. In addition to her membership in the Cattle Baron’s Ball committee, the Ursuline alum has served as president of the Preston Hollow Early Childhood Association and co-chaired the Catholic Foundation, where she helped raise more than $1 million for charity.

Her biggest challenge, Araiza said, is being a working mom to her children, who are between the ages of 11 and 3. She called finding the balance between her professional and home lives a moving target. 10 years from now, Araiza said, she might be able to combine the two.

“I do think it would be fun to be in business with my kids one day,” she said. “Within my own career, I hope that Dallas Trinity FC has been able to be what we hope it will be for the city of Dallas.”

What advice do you have for other young professionals?

Focus on your professional connections, work experience, and building real relationships. They will get you much further than your GPA. Be a quick learner and understand how to close a deal. Also, learn to negotiate — it’s a life skill. 

What was your first job and what did you learn from it?

My first job was when I was 16 years old. FIG (Fashion Industry Gallery) had just launched, and I was their first intern. One of my first responsibilities was to cold call. I learned the importance of getting on the phone with people, asking for business, navigating tricky conversations, how to be confident when speaking. I also learned the importance of being a good listener, asking the right questions, and how to add value.

What (or who) motivated you to get involved in the community?

My faith has always been something that motivates me to give back. Attending Ursuline, our motto was “serviam.” Service has been a part of every part of my life. 

What’s on your bucket list?

A year abroad.

What accomplishment are you the proudest of and why?

Professionally, I have so much to be proud of. I launched my own company at the age of 23 and had a nice run in the magazine world. Now, being able to launch the first professional women’s soccer team for the city of Dallas has been really exciting.

Personally, my four kids are what I’m most proud of. There’s no job more important than being a mom.

What was your toughest business or personal challenge?

It’s ongoing … being a working mom. I have four kids: 11, 8, 6, and 3 years old. Finding the balance is always a moving target. I still believe it’s impossible to be the best mom and best at your job at the same time. Right now, I’m all in on my career and doing the best I can as a mom. A supportive husband makes things easier!

How do you motivate yourself and others?

For others — lead by example. I find myself motivated if I have a passion for something. If it speaks to me, I’m all in.

What was your “lightbulb moment” that led you to your career?

When I was 13, I spent my spring break in the marketing closet at SELF Magazine in NYC helping out my aunt who worked there. It opened my eyes to the world of NYC, the beauty industry, and life in the magazine world.

What’s a fun fact that someone wouldn’t know about you?

I speak Spanish

What would you tell an 18-year-old you?

Give yourself grace and all your hard work will eventually pay off.