At 46, Luis Ernesto Clavijo has achieved what many professionals aspire to: building a successful career while remaining committed to his Latin roots and the immigrant community. Of Bolivian descent and born in the District of Columbia, Clavijo has merged his multicultural experience with a solid track record in the financial world, a sector that captivated him 17 years ago and motivated him to radically change his career from lawyer to banker. “In both careers, service has always been at the core of what I do,” he said. Today, Clavijo is the Sr. Relationship Manager of TD Bank in Washington, DC, and his main focus is supporting the Spanish-speaking community. “We want families and small business owners to be informed and to use the resources we have available for their growth and life transformation,” he expressed.
Clavijo shows that it is possible to maintain a strong connection to cultural roots while pursuing professional success.
Clavijo grew up in a home deeply connected to the Hispanic community. His parents emigrated from Bolivia to the United States in 1976 and settled in Washington. “My dad had obtained a scholarship to study here, and my mom was going to work at PAHO,” he said, referring to the Pan American Health Organization. His father was the director of the local Univision news program. As a journalist, he remained closely connected to Bolivia and the Latin community, while his mother worked at the international health agency. These backgrounds gave him a global vision early on, fueling his sense of responsibility toward both local and foreign communities. “We always spoke Spanish at home. My parents wanted us to learn English at school but never at the cost of losing our mother tongue,” he recalled.
The Shift from Law to Finance
This cultural duality shaped his identity and influenced his professional career. Throughout his life, Clavijo has witnessed various realities in Washington and Bolivia. A law graduate from American University with a bachelor's degree from George Mason University, Clavijo practiced as a lawyer for five years before discovering his true passion in finance.
“I felt that law limited me; I wanted something that offered more flexibility and could be applied to various industries while allowing me to serve the community,” he said. A friend encouraged him to venture into banking, and Clavijo was captivated by the world of finance. In 2007, he started his banking career and strengthened his connection with small businesses and the financial needs of the local community. Since then, he has used his experience to support small businesses and individuals in his community, focusing mainly on the Latino community.
Constant Support for the Latin Community Inside and Outside the Bank
One of the most important aspects of his career has been his dedication to the Latino community. As a financial advisor, Clavijo has helped emerging businesses access government contracts, especially in the construction sector. “Seeing how a small company can expand through these contracts is incredible. I feel I can contribute something significant to their growth,” he highlighted. In his current role at TD Bank, he has worked tirelessly to promote inclusion and diversity within the institution. His collaboration with the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and his leadership in initiatives such as the resource group for Latino employees are testaments to his commitment.
Beyond Financial Services
Clavijo's work in financial services also includes engaging residents, business owners and community organizations in growing areas like Skyland and other areas in Ward 7 and 8 where banking and community resources are needed where they also offer community resources. “We want the bank's resources to serve community development. Local organizations can use our facilities for meetings at no cost,” he said.
Key Connections
Clavijo has played a key role in several organizations, including the Metro Hispanic Contractors Association. His work in this association reflects his passion for providing growth opportunities to Latino entrepreneurs in the construction sector. “It is gratifying to see how businesses evolve and grow with our support, especially in the construction sector,” he said. His participation on the board of directors of The Latino Executive Network has been another cornerstone of his career. Through this platform, he has helped organize events for Latino executives, such as a recent polo tournament in Poolesville, Maryland, which offered networking opportunities to leaders from various industries. “These events foster collaboration and mutual support among Latino leaders,” he explained.
Achievements and Challenges
Throughout his career, Clavijo has helped numerous entrepreneurs take the next step. One moment he remembers fondly was when he helped a construction company expand from doing residential jobs to securing government contracts. “Seeing these businesses grow and access new opportunities is extremely satisfying,” he commented, emphasizing his commitment to entrepreneurs seeking to expand their horizons. Despite his many achievements, he admits that time management is one of his biggest challenges. “Between the demands of my job and the desire to help more people, it's hard to find balance. Sometimes business relationships are seen as transactions when they should be focused on long-term growth,” he reflected.
Legacy
With a 17-year career in finance, Luis Ernesto Clavijo demonstrates that it is possible to maintain a strong connection to cultural roots while pursuing professional success. “My Latin heritage has been crucial in everything I do. I have always sought ways for my resources to benefit the community." It is his commitment to the community that has allowed him to make a real difference in the lives of many. “We are here to listen and respond to the needs of the Latino community,” he concluded with a smile.
