Alumni Business Spotlight: Kyshama Montes-Belardo and Island Bello LLC
Resilient | Resourceful | Purpose-driven
Every skill came from a story—and every story
started with a problem I figured out.
Meet Kyshama Montes-Belardo, the powerhouse behind Island Bello LLC, a management company rooted in real-life experience, personal integrity, and the quiet but impactful confidence that comes from solving problems most people would rather avoid.
From Law Office Leader to Problem Solver
Kyshama began her professional journey at just 23, managing a law firm on St. Croix. While at the law firm, Kyshama quickly became known for her resourcefulness, grit, and an unshakable moral compass. “I learned everything hands-on,” she shares. “But after 14 years, I saw how unjust the justice system could be. Sometimes people with money walked free while others with real cases were overlooked. That didn’t sit right with me.” This moment of truth led Kyshama to pivot-choosing purpose over prestige and flexibility over burnout.
Complex Days & Mr. Ferguson’s Unforgettable Honesty
Asking Kyshama about her time at Complex, and she immediately lights up: “Pizza Day in the lunchroom was a favorite-those were the simple joys!” But it was her Algebra teacher, Mr. Ferguson, who made the deepest impact. “He was brutally honest. Once, he told me to ‘go play in traffic,’ and believe it or not, that stuck with me. It taught me not to waste anyone’s time-especially someone who’s trying to teach you something. That shaped how I move through life.”
Words to Her Younger Self & Current Students
If she could talk to her 16-year-old self? She wouldn’t change a thing. “Every failure gave me a skill. That’s how I got here.” Her advice for current students is just as direct: “Every day you wake up is a blessing. Every failure reminds you that you’re human. Keep showing up.”
What is Island Bello LLC?
Island Bello LLC is a consulting and management company that helps individuals and small businesses navigate life’s most stressful situations- with honesty, heart, and solutions that make sense. Her services include: Credit evaluations & financial planning, Legal process support & document creation, Property management & home buying assistance, Project & business management, and Customized solutions based on your needs.
“I’ve always been the one people call when they need something done, whether it’s fixing a budget or managing a remodel. Eventually, I realized these skills were valuable-and deserved to be part of something I could build on my own terms.”