July 13, 2021

This week’s Up-and-Comer is Lucinda Noronha, chief people officer at Landscape Garden Centers.

Name: Lucinda Noronha

Age: 36

Hometown: I am originally from Caraguatatuba, a coastal city in the state of Sao Paulo, Brazil, but moved to Gainesville, Florida, at the age of 12.

What brought you to Sioux Falls?

It was definitely a long road to get here. Although I grew up in Florida, I have lived in many places prior to landing in Sioux Falls. Ultimately, I moved here as a result of my husband’s job. He commutes to different towns each day, and Sioux Falls is very central to the locations he oversees.

What keeps you in Sioux Falls?

Sioux Falls is definitely a growing city, but the Midwestern, small-town values are very ingrained in the community. It’s the best of both worlds and is hard to beat!

What’s your favorite thing about your job?

Getting an opportunity to create something new in a well-established family-owned company. Working each day, side by side, with a local industry leader while developing the next generation of talent is extremely rewarding.

How did you get connected to your industry?

The “Green Industry” was completely new to me. As the relocation plans were happening, I was approached by a recruiter representing a “company looking for someone to start their HR department”– and here I am!

Describe Landscape Garden Centers in three words.

Integrity. Professionalism. Giving.

What is something someone might be surprised to learn about you?

My dream growing up was to become a marine biologist. As a teenager, I read the complete set of “The Ocean World of Jacques Cousteau.”

What’s your favorite way to give back to your community?

I really enjoy learning about people and cultures, as well as facilitating that experience for others. Any time I can assist with ESL (English as a second language) classes or serve as a liaison between businesses and individuals, I will do it.

What’s one business you’d like to see in Sioux Falls that isn’t here now?

It would be fantastic if there were a place that would host live Latin music with an open dance floor, as well as offer some lessons a night or two a week.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

I definitely see myself being more involved in the community. Sioux Falls is a great city that is growing exponentially, and I would love to continue to be part of that.