Rafael Vite’s journey is a testament to the power of entrepreneurship, cultural understanding and community involvement. From his early days as an international student to his current role as a successful business owner and community leader, Vite has consistently demonstrated a commitment to building bridges and creating opportunities.
Vite’s story began in Saltillo, Coahuila, Mexico. In 2013, he embarked on a journey to Springfield, Missouri, to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Entrepreneurship with a minor in International Management at Missouri State University. Adjusting to a new country and culture was challenging. “Having to be far away from my family was a challenge,” Vite recalls. However, an exchange program in Canada during high school had ignited his passion for international experiences, and he quickly found a new family within the Association of International Students (AIS) at Missouri State.
AIS became a pivotal part of Vite’s college experience. He rose through the ranks, eventually becoming president of the organization. Under his leadership, AIS organized events that promoted cultural awareness and provided support for international students. His involvement with AIS also led to opportunities with the International Programs department, where he helped organize events and recruit international students.
While immersed in campus life, Vite sought opportunities to expand his business acumen. An internship with Rural First, a local tech startup, allowed him to develop his sales and marketing skills. Later, a summer internship in Hong Kong with a blockchain startup, PassKit, honed his skills in UX design and software development.
Upon returning from Hong Kong, Vite began his accelerated MBA program. It was during this time that he met his wife, Bailey. This encounter became a significant turning point in his life. As he puts it, “I just really wanted to introduce Bailey into the story because I wouldn’t be where I am today without her love and support.”
After graduating with his MBA, Vite faced the challenges of navigating the job market as an international student. Despite his qualifications and experience, finding a company willing to sponsor his visa proved difficult. Undeterred, he turned to entrepreneurship, launching an online store called Destination Bag with Bailey, selling camping gear through dropshipping. This venture allowed him to sharpen his digital marketing skills.
Vite’s entrepreneurial spirit eventually led him to a position at a local marketing agency. There, he thrived, building client relationships and crafting effective marketing strategies. His ability to connect with the Hispanic community in Springfield and Mexico led to freelance opportunities, setting the stage for his next venture.
In 2020, Vite took a leap of faith, leaving his secure job to launch his own marketing agency, Primate Digital Marketing. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Primate Digital Marketing has flourished, helping over 150 businesses with a team of 15 people and offices in Springfield, Austin and León, Mexico.
Building upon his success with Primate Digital Marketing, Vite co-founded Urban Studios in 2023, a coworking space for content creators, with Asantae Haanstad, a photographer he often hired. “Let’s make a business out of it!” Vite exclaimed, recognizing the potential to create a collaborative environment for local creatives.
Beyond his business ventures, Vite is deeply committed to community building. Recognizing the need for greater connection among Hispanic business owners in the Ozarks, he co-founded the Hispanic Networking Group in the Ozarks (HNGO) in 2021. As vice president, Vite has played a key role in organizing events that promote networking, support local nonprofits and celebrate Hispanic culture.
HNGO’s events, such as the Hispanic Carnaval and CultureFest, have drawn large crowds and raised significant funds for community organizations. “Connecting businesses with the community we serve” is HNGO’s slogan, reflecting Vite’s commitment to creating a positive impact beyond the business world.
Rafael Vite’s journey from an international student to a community leader exemplifies the transformative power of entrepreneurship, cultural understanding and community involvement. His ability to build bridges and create opportunities has not only led to his success but has also enriched the lives of those around him.
