Today we’d like to introduce you to Luciana Tavares.
Hi Luciana, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I began my career in a humble role as an office assistant, taking on small tasks and learning the foundations of how an accounting office operates. Over time, my curiosity and determination helped me grow into leadership positions, eventually managing all areas of the company. Along the way, I truly fell in love with the profession. I often say I didn’t choose accounting, it chose me. In fact, I was in my final year of nursing school when I made the life changing decision to drop everything and switch to accounting. It was a leap of faith, but one that led me to discover my true passion and purpose.
My parents originally moved here from Brazil when I was just 2 years old. Growing up as the child of first-generation immigrants was often challenging. I watched my parents work incredibly hard to give me a better future while navigating language barriers, cultural differences, and learning from mistakes along the way. I did everything I could to help, and those experiences shaped who I am today.
When I began my career, I discovered my true calling: helping other first-generation immigrants like my family who struggle to understand U.S. laws and taxes. I saw a real need in the community. Many individuals and small businesses were facing obstacles with taxes, bookkeeping, and compliance, especially where language or cultural barriers existed. That’s what inspired me to create Nextcellent Consulting, a 100% virtual firm designed to make professional accounting and tax services more accessible. Today, we proudly serve clients in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, ensuring they feel fully understood and supported.
What started as just me has now grown in less than two years into a team of six serving clients not only across the Carolinas but also in multiple states. My journey has been built on persistence, adaptability, and the belief that with the right support, entrepreneurs can thrive. Today, I’m proud that our firm delivers more than numbers, we bring clarity, confidence, and peace of mind.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t always been a smooth road, but I’m grateful for the journey. Before opening my own firm, I had the privilege of working for another small accounting practice where I had a wonderful role model. When I first joined, the firm had only two employees, and over the years I watched it grow. As the office manager, I had a front-row seat to that growth. I experienced firsthand what worked and what didn’t, the importance of systems, communication, and leadership, but also the challenges that come with scaling a business. Those lessons became invaluable when I started my own practice. They gave me the confidence to know what to focus on, what to avoid, and how to build a firm that could grow sustainably while keeping client service at the center.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
At Nextcellent Consulting, we specialize in helping individuals and small businesses with bookkeeping, tax preparation, compliance, and business consulting. Operating 100% remotely, we proudly serve in English, Portuguese, and Spanish.
What sets us apart is not only our expertise but also the way we connect with people. I’m especially proud of the social media presence I’ve built, with followers growing every single day. I use those platforms to support and inspire, creating videos that break down complicated laws and tax concepts into simple, practical language. For many, it’s the first time they feel these topics are actually accessible and understandable.
I take pride in being more than just a tax preparer, I see myself as an educator and motivator. I love to inspire and challenge my clients to reach the next level in both their businesses and their personal financial journeys. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of giving multiple public speeches, sharing knowledge and encouragement with wider audiences. That passion for teaching, combined with professional guidance, cultural understanding, and community inspiration, is what truly sets Nextcellent apart.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Be patient, stay consistent, and never stop learning. Set up systems early, learn from mistakes, and believe in yourself even when no one else does. And remember: the most important part is your team, so value them, because they’re an extension of you and your business. Invest in teaching them, supporting them, and making them feel valued.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.nextcellent.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nextcellent/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Nextcellent/
