Today we’d like to introduce you to Gabi Garcia-Gallont.
Hi Gabi, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
Graphic Designer by profession; halfway through my career, I had my first job, which had nothing to do with my line of study. I became part of the event and fashion scene in Guatemala in 2008, a year in which the industry was emerging. I came across a team that wanted to make a breakthrough. I found people who were passionate not only about what they did but about teaching what they knew so we could all be better. People who believed in Guatemala and wanted to see the industry grow.
Not so long after, I decided to take on the life of the entrepreneur, and although I didn’t think about having a company, I did think about working for myself on the projects that I liked with people who contributed to me.
So, I have the privilege of having studied something that I don’t do now, but in exchange, I have found something that I am passionate about and that has become my daily life: Event Production. Being a part of something entirely new at the time was a unique privilege. It required not just problem-solving but also a ‘do it all’ mentality because we were all learning together.
The skill set I’ve cultivated through walking a new ground has sharpened my ability to execute effectively and, at the same time, instilled in me a sense of humility and a strong work ethic. I approach every project with dedication and relisence, recognizing that there’s always more to learn and ways to improve.
In the event production industry, I’ve discovered a variety of facets and angles, each offering unique challenges and opportunities for growth. While mastering them takes time, I embrace the journey and am committed to continuous learning and improvement. My versatility allows me to adapt to various projects and contexts, whether it’s organizing corporate conferences, music festivals, runways, or cultural events. By immersing myself in diverse experiences, I broaden my expertise and contribute effectively to the success of any project I undertake.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
My journey in the event production industry has been extremely fun but has also had its challenges. Being a woman and starting at a young age, I often came across people who did not believe I was capable of leading their projects and companies. More than once, I faced (and still do) the perception of looking even younger than I was. Additionally, being a woman in a male-dominated field, I found myself trying to prove people wrong, and having that constant need to prove I was good presented its own set of obstacles.
But to overcome both of those, I always look to surround myself with people who believe in me because that automatically empowers me, and that is something that is projected outwards. I think I have always had a team that supports me not only as a woman but as a professional. And for me, that is what is important. Because there are many things that we cannot control, but respect is earned, as a man or as a woman, and that is something we have control over.
So, building a supportive environment has been a significant achievement, but it hasn’t erased my insecurities. Despite the progress I’ve made and the validation and recognition I receive from others, self-doubt still creeps in regularly. It’s a constant battle against the nagging voice that questions my abilities and worth. Being part of different projects means that each of them will bring its own set of challenges, and with it, the fear of failure looms large. Will I be good enough? Can I rise to the occasion? These doubts linger, a reminder that the journey of self-discovery and growth is ongoing, and overcoming insecurities is a journey in itself.
However, these struggles have only fueled my determination to succeed, and I’ve learned to navigate and overcome them with resilience and perseverance.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I specialize in the Event Industry. I lead and produce events of all kinds, taking on multiple roles as needed. Whether it’s project manager, or event producer, stage manager, or runway director, I’m ready to dive in. From corporate events to art exhibits, concerts, runways, parades, film festivals, and congresses, I’ve done a bit of it all.
I am very proud about having achieved all these things as an Independent Professional. I don’t have the advantage of a big brand or company backing me up. I am where I am today because of my dedication and stubbornness. I have found a way to make a name for myself. Along the way, I have come across people who have contributed enormously, and I have built meaningful long-term relationships with clients, but at the end of the day, establishing a reputation for myself has been essential because my work is my brand. I have been able to let my work speak for itself and build credibility in the industry.
After many years of hard work and amazing experiences, my work has made me part of creative and impactful projects and has taken me to different countries, leading and executing events with passion and dedication. It’s a challenging yet rewarding journey, and I’m proud to make an impact in the world of event production wherever I go.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
When seeking a mentor, one of my key criteria is their openness to teaching and their genuine desire to help me improve. I believe it’s essential to find someone who not only inspires me but also values my growth. A great mentor, like a good leader, creates a safe and supportive environment where I feel comfortable making mistakes or asking questions, knowing they’ll provide constructive guidance rather than criticism. To me, this mentorship dynamic fosters a culture of continuous learning and personal development, ultimately helping me reach my full potential.
It’s easy to get distracted by people we idealize, wishing to emulate their success or lifestyle. However, it’s crucial to discern between those we admire from afar and those who truly have our best interests at heart. Finding a mentor isn’t about projecting ourselves onto someone else; it’s about seeking guidance from someone who genuinely cares about our growth and development. Trust and mutual respect are key components of a successful mentorship relationship. It’s about finding someone who will support us, challenge us, and help us navigate our own unique path to success.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.unicorniodorado.com
- Instagram: @unicorniodoradogt
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabigarciagallont/
Image Credits
Diego Ascoli
Andres Amaya
Derek Ray
Javier Asturias
Franz Ippish
