Like the bougainvillea—beautiful,
unyielding, and impossible to destroy—
one woman defied the odds, rising from
the shadows of a traumatic past to build
an extraordinary future.
A Story of Resilience that Refuses to Fade
No payment required until launch.
It’s Hard to Kill a Bougainvillea
A Memoir of Survival, Resilience, and Triumph
Like the bougainvillea—beautiful, unyielding, and impossible to destroy—one woman defied the odds, rising from the shadows of a traumatic past to build an extraordinary future.
In this deeply moving memoir, Sylvia A. Alvarez tells the remarkable true story of her mother, a Cuban immigrant who endured unthinkable hardships, yet refused to be broken. Fleeing the turmoil of her homeland, she arrived in America with little more than her determination and an unshakable will to survive. Through grit, resilience, and an unwavering spirit, she carved out a new life, ultimately transforming herself into the owner of a thriving garment empire.
A testament to the power of perseverance, It’s Hard to Kill a Bougainvillea is a tribute to all those who dare to dream beyond their circumstances and fight for a future greater than their past. Heart-wrenching yet inspiring, this is the story of a woman who refused to wither—who bloomed brilliantly against all odds.
Click the player to play the “It’s Hard to Kill a Bougainvillea” song….
It’s Hard to Kill a Bougainvillea
I am dance.
Music that runs from your soul down to your feet.
Music that makes your body move to the beat
I am from songs that sing to your soul.
Music that makes youth of the old...
Full Song Lyrics
It’s Hard to Kill a Bougainvillea
I am dance.
Music that runs from your soul down to your feet.
Music that makes your body move to the beat
I am from songs that sing to your soul.
Music that makes youth of the old.
I am from sugar cane fields kissed by the sun
From sweet dark rum when the work days done
I am from plantain, pineapple, coconut cream,
From waters so blue they shimmer like dreams
(Refrain)
It’s Hard to Kill a Bougainvillea
Aun que la vida te haga llorar
(Even if life makes you cry)
El alma Vuelve amar
(The soul will love again)
I am from miles of sugar sand beaches
From the place that only love reaches
From the scent of flowers and cigars
And the air from antique cars and stories rare
(Refrain)
It’s Hard to Kill a Bougainvillea
Aun que la vida te haga llorar
(Even if life makes you cry)
El alma Vuelve amar
(The soul will love again)
De la Tierra de azucar y suenos
(From the land of sugar and dreams)
De la musica que no se va
(From the music that never fades)
Soy flor que nace del fuego
(I am a flower born of fire)
Y sigo viva a amar
(And I am still alive to love)
From roots that twist through centuries past
From laughter that lingers, shadows that last
From stories told seeking a panacea
I am proof, it’s hard to kill a bougainvillea
(Refrain)
It’s Hard to Kill a Bougainvillea
Aun que la vida te haga llorar
(Even if life makes you cry)
El alma Vuelve amar
(The soul will love again)
About the Author
Sylvia Alvarez is a dynamic force in the housing and homeownership sectors, celebrated for her visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to empowering communities. As the founder and Executive Director of the Housing and Education Alliance (HEA), Sylvia has been a trailblazer in transforming the lives of over 54,000 residents in the Tampa Bay area since 2002. Under her guidance, HEA has become a beacon of hope, providing crucial HUD-approved housing counseling and resources to those navigating the complexities of homeownership.
An esteemed appointee to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Advisory Board in Washington, DC, Sylvia has played a pivotal role in returning over $14 billion to consumers harmed by financial institutions, making a lasting impact under two presidential administrations. Her work reflects her deep commitment to advocating for fairness and transparency in the financial industry.
In addition to her work with the CFPB, Sylvia has served on a number of high-profile boards, including JP Morgan Chase’s Advisory Board, UnidosUS Housing Advisory Board, the HOPE NOW board in Washington, DC, and the Lakeview Capital Advisory Board. She is also an active member of her community, serving on the Board at Unity of Clearwater Church. Her leadership and expertise have earned her numerous accolades, including induction into the Thomas Jefferson High School Hall of Fame in Tampa, FL, a testament to her lasting influence and dedication to the Tampa Bay area.
Sylvia’s legacy is built on a foundation of hard work, integrity, and an unwavering dedication to the families she serves. She continues to fight for the rights of consumers, ensuring that homeownership remains a path to financial security for generations to come.
She is soon to become a published author of the book “It’s Hard to Kill a Bougainvillea”.
Stay tuned for release updates.
