We were lucky to catch up with Cynthia Gonzalez recently and have shared our conversation below.
Cynthia , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.
At age 50 I decided to retire early after 15 years of service in the Federal Government. I still have to wait til age 62 to collect my pension. But that’s OK,
After embarking in entrepreneurship by founding in October 2021 the 1st Puerto Rico Cigar Festival after 147 yrs of the last one held in 1883, certifying myself not only BarSmarts by Pernod Ricard, but also as a Cigar Sommelier Tobacconist CCST with SGM (Sotl Global Movement). I decided to start a second career in the aviation industry and graduated as a Flight Attendant in June 9th 2023 with one of the top legacy airlines in the United States.
I took a year off from the hustle and bustle of the PR Cigar Festival in order to purse my new career and dive into this new adventure. At age 52, I can say I bet on myself with everything I got and made it! My passions for the crafted cocktails, Distilled spirits, Cigars and travel has come full circle.
I have now been able to visit the Top 50Best Bars in the world and counting, smoked cigars at some of the most amazing lounges in the world. Meet people in person the industry after knowing them thru social media for years.
Cynthia , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I run several brands. Hostess with the Mostest which is dedicated to distilled spirits and Cocktails.
Mujeres y Humos Sotl of PR is about Cocktails and Cigar pairings.
Puerto Rico Cigar Festival is an annual Cigar Festival where Cigar Brands local and international present their products for attendees enjoyment. It’s plataform is about culture, history and education of the tobacco in Puerto Rico.
Certified Cigar Sommelier Tobacconists
Certified BarSmarts
Certified Flight Attendant
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
Being able to inspire others, while walking the talk.
Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?
Rule no.1 – Whatever you decide to do, do it for the right reasons.
Rule no.2 – Safeguard your vision, as only you can understand it, until it comes to fruition
Rule no.3 – Give yourself some grace. Passion, drive, tenacity, there are all personal elements withing you.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @Mujeres.y.humos
- Facebook: Puerto Rico Cigar Festival
Image Credits