We’re looking forward to introducing you to Yas Gonzalez. Check out our conversation below.
Yas, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What do you think others are secretly struggling with—but never say?
I think one of the biggest struggles people face, but rarely talk about, is loneliness. Even in a world that’s more connected than ever through social media and technology, many people feel isolated in their daily lives. It’s something people often hide out of fear of being judged or appearing weak, but it affects mental health, relationships, and even our sense of purpose.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Yas Gonzalez, and I’m a fashion designer, creative director, and founder of House of Yas. My work blends couture craftsmanship with storytelling, often drawing inspiration from culture, legacy, and meaningful causes. Beyond design, I also run The Yas Gonzalez Foundation, which supports emerging artists and creates programs for children with autism and other special needs. What makes my brand unique is that it’s not only about fashion it’s about purpose, innovation, and community. Right now, I’m working on collections that bring together sustainability, technology, and art, in partnership with Baby Lock Sewing Machines and Tacony, while also building platforms like the Miami Fashion Show to give visibility to other designers and voices in our community.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
The person who saw me clearly before I could see myself was my husband, Asiel Babastro. He recognized my vision, my creativity, and my strength at times when I still doubted myself. He has always reminded me of my potential and encouraged me to step fully into it, even before I realized how far I could go.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes, there were times I wanted to give up. Times when the weight of life pressed so heavily on me that I questioned my purpose, my strength, even my worth. I am not perfect, I struggle, I suffer, and I have feared I’ve failed. But I’ve also learned that in the cracks of our darkest moments, light finds its way in. Every stumble carved resilience into my soul, every heartbreak taught me to love deeper, every loss reminded me to live fuller. I’ve stood in silence with tears that no one saw, and still found the courage to lift my head high and move forward. I carry the scars, but I wear them as proof that I survived and that survival is its own kind of beauty. My story is not one of perfection, but of persistence. And through every stage of my life, I have learned that even in brokenness, there is power… and even in despair, there is hope.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
A project I am committed to, no matter how long it takes, is helping children and young adults with disabilities discover their voices as artists and pursue their dreams. For me, it’s not just about teaching, it’s about truly paying attention, guiding them, and being present in their journey. I want them to feel seen, supported, and believed in. At the same time, I am deeply committed to the bigger questions surrounding autism: understanding where it comes from, why we are seeing such a dramatic increase in diagnoses, and how we can create better solutions for these children. I know this is not a project with an easy answer or a quick fix. But it is the work of my heart, and I will dedicate my life to being part of the search for answers and the fight to make the world a more compassionate and supportive place for them.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. When do you feel most at peace?
When with my kids and family.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://houseofyas.com
- Instagram: @yasgonzalezofficial
- Linkedin: Yas Gonzalez
- Twitter: yasgonzalezyas
- Facebook: Yas Gonzalez
- Youtube: YasGonzalez
Image Credits
Photo: Asiel Babastro
