Hero's Heroes + Hispanic Heritage Month!

Today we are combining two important features on our blog - National Hispanic Heritage Month, and Hero's Heroes! In the Hero's Heroes feature we introduce you to the people behind the scenes who work hard to bring you quality products and inspiration. We call them Hero's Heroes because they are how we do what we do!

We're also honoring the heritage of this member of the Hero Arts family. She is a first generation Mexican American whose parents came to California in their mid-teens. Like many first generation children, she grew up being taught to work hard in order to achieve the "American Dream" and make her parents' struggles worthwhile. You can imagine this idea didn't mesh well with her dream of making a living as an artist! Luckily her parents trusted that she would make it work and somehow find her way; which gave her the space to experience her own struggles that she would eventually feel were 100% worthwhile.

Let's get to know Yesenia Gonzalez!

What you do for Hero Arts?
I’m one of the designers that designs and illustrates products for Hero Arts. I’ve been here for about two and a half years and it’s seriously the best feeling to create something that inspires others to create as well; and even better when what’s being created is spreading positivity and kindness.

What are 3 words to describe Hero Arts?
It’s so hard to stick to just three: Family, Teamwork, Kindness

Tell us a little about your family.
I was born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area and live with my husband Josh and our 2 kitties Ebi and Nori (Japanese for Shrimp and Seaweed). And like Robin and Raun who are on the design team, I’m also a twin!

What you enjoy doing in your personal life?
I really enjoy painting and the perfect day for me is taking a sketchbook or iPad to my local coffee shop and having brunch while listening to music and drawing for a few hours. When I’m not creating I love to go hiking as well as breaking out in impromptu dance parties in my living room.

Do you have an office nickname?
A few people at the office call me Yesi!

Best vacation you’ve been to?
I’m not sure if you would call it a vacation but 3 years ago my husband (then fiancé) and I left our jobs and traveled around Southeast Asia/Asia for 4 months. We visited Japan, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. While the whole trip and individual place holds a special place in my heart, Vietnam stood out for such outgoing, kind, and generous locals and ease of travel. Of course the $1.50 bowls of pho and banh mi sandwiches didn’t hurt!

Thank you, Yesenia, for helping us to get to know you better. We are grateful that you are part of the Hero Arts family!