Meet Yas Gonzalez | Cuban American Fashion Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Yas Gonzalez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Yas, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Starting my own business was a decision deeply rooted in my passion and belief in the power of pursuing one’s dreams. It was a journey that required self-confidence, determination, and a willingness to take risks. My thought process behind this venture was a blend of unwavering self-assurance and a desire to inspire others to follow their own dreams.

First and foremost, I had a strong belief in my vision and the value that my business idea could bring to the world. I knew that success wouldn’t come overnight, and there would be challenges along the way, but my unwavering faith in my idea kept me going. I understood that every great achievement starts with a single step, and I was willing to take that step, no matter how daunting it might seem at the outset. At the same time, I was acutely aware of the fear and self-doubt that can often hold people back from pursuing their entrepreneurial dreams. So, I wanted to set an example, to show that it’s okay to have doubts, but it’s even more important to believe in yourself and take that leap of faith. I wanted to be a source of hope and encouragement for others who might be hesitating on the edge of their own entrepreneurial journey.

Starting a business is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor, and it’s not without its uncertainties. But the process of building something from the ground up, of seeing your vision come to life, is incredibly rewarding. It’s about learning from failures, adapting to changes, and celebrating even the smallest victories. It’s a journey that can be tough, but it’s also incredibly fulfilling. I would encourage anyone with a dream, a vision, or a passion to take that first step. Believe in yourself and your ideas, and don’t let fear or doubt hold you back. Surround yourself with a support system of mentors, advisors, and like-minded individuals who can help guide you. Understand that setbacks are part of the process, but they’re also opportunities for growth.

In the end, starting your own business is not just about creating a source of income; it’s about creating a life of purpose and fulfillment. It’s about pursuing what sets your soul on fire and making a positive impact on the world. So, if you have a dream, don’t just dream it—chase it, nurture it, and watch it grow. Your journey may be challenging, but it’s a journey worth taking, and it can inspire others to do the same.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m truly passionate about my art, and what sets me apart from others is my unwavering dedication to creating pieces that bring happiness and joy to people’s lives. Every day, I have the privilege of doing what I love, and that’s something I’m incredibly proud of. My journey to where I am today professionally has been far from easy. Life, in general, is a rollercoaster filled with ups and downs, but it’s through these challenges that we grow and learn. I firmly believe that God has equipped us with the right tools to handle whatever comes our way. It’s not about the challenges themselves but rather about our perspective and how we choose to navigate them. I’ve faced my fair share of obstacles along the way, from financial hurdles to self-doubt and the pressures of building a brand. However, I’ve learned that challenges are opportunities in disguise. They push us to innovate, adapt, and become stronger individuals. Through perseverance and a never-give-up attitude, I’ve overcome these obstacles and continued to pursue my passion for art.
The most significant lesson I’ve learned on this journey is the importance of staying true to myself and my vision. It’s essential to maintain a deep connection with the art I create and to infuse each piece with love and passion. Art isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about emotion and storytelling.
What I want the world to know about my brand is that it’s created with an abundance of love. Behind every piece, there’s a profound story, a wellspring of passion, and a relentless commitment to excellence. I breathe art, and my purpose is to share that passion and creativity with every beautiful woman who wears my creations. Each piece carries a piece of my heart and soul, and I hope to inspire confidence, beauty, and joy in those who embrace my work.

In essence, my brand is a testament to the power of pursuing one’s dreams, overcoming challenges, and sharing love and creativity with the world. It’s a reminder that we all have the ability to make our lives a work of art and inspire others along the way.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?

1. **Day 1 – Little Havana:** Start with Cuban breakfast, explore the area, visit a museum, and dance to salsa music.

2. **Day 2 – Beach Day:** Enjoy South Beach, lunch by the ocean, and nightlife at the Art Deco Historic District.

3. **Day 3 – Art and Culture:** Visit the Pérez Art Museum Miami and Wynwood Walls, with lunch in Wynwood.

4. **Day 4 – Outdoor Adventure:** Take an Everglades airboat tour, visit Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, and dine in Coconut Grove.

5. **Day 5 – Island Getaway:** Day trip to Key West for sightseeing, water activities, and a sunset dinner.

6. **Day 6 – Shopping and Relaxation:** Shop at Aventura Mall, spa time, and a nice dinner in Brickell.

7. **Day 7 – Farewell:** Brunch in the Design District, a scenic boat tour of Biscayne Bay, and a rooftop dinner to end the trip.

This itinerary combines cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, shopping, relaxation, and great food to make my friend’s Miami visit unforgettable, she would love it

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Absolutely, recognizing the people and influences that have played a significant role in my journey is essential. I want to dedicate my shoutout to a few remarkable individuals and groups who have been instrumental in shaping my path.

First and foremost, I must express my gratitude to God. My faith has been a constant source of strength and guidance throughout my entrepreneurial journey. It’s in moments of uncertainty and challenges that I’ve turned to my faith for solace and found the resilience to keep moving forward. I also want to pay a heartfelt tribute to my late mother, whose memory continues to inspire and uplift me. Her unwavering love, support, and encouragement have been irreplaceable. Her energy, even in her absence, serves as a driving force behind my determination to succeed.

My family, including my wonderful husband and children, deserves a special mention. Their understanding, patience, and unwavering belief in me have provided the stability and motivation I needed to pursue my dreams. They are my pillars of strength, and I couldn’t have done it without their support. Additionally, I want to extend my appreciation to those who believed in me and my vision from the very beginning. To my investors, thank you for having faith in my ideas and providing the resources needed to bring them to life. Your support has been invaluable. My dedicated team, whose hard work and commitment have helped turn our dreams into reality, deserves recognition as well. Their passion and dedication to our shared goals drive our success every day. Last but not least, I want to express my gratitude to our incredible clients. Your trust, admiration, and appreciation for our work motivate us to continue delivering excellence. Your feedback and loyalty remind us that we’re on the right path.

In conclusion, my journey as an entrepreneur has been shaped by the love, support, mentorship, and encouragement of many remarkable individuals and groups. Their contributions have been the driving force behind my success, and I am immensely grateful for their presence in my life. Thank you all for being a part of this incredible journey with me.

Website: yasgonzalez.com

Instagram: yasgonzalezofficial

Facebook: yasgonzalezofficial

Youtube: yasgonzalezofficial

Image Credits
asiel babastro