Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Magdalena Hess . We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Magdalena , thank you for being such a positive, uplifting person. We’ve noticed that so many of the successful folks we’ve had the good fortune of connecting with have high levels of optimism and so we’d love to hear about your optimism and where you think it comes from.
Well, I learned at a very young age that optimism is the way to be. As a kid, I grew up in the inner city with its challenges, and you learn quickly to trust and pay attention to your gut
feeling. I learned to listen to my inner voice and found that it was always leading me in the right
direction.
My optimism comes from a deep understanding that everything is okay. Developing my self-love and
self-trust was essential. A book that greatly helped me grasp the concepts of self-love and optimism was
“Dying to Be Me” by Anita Moorjani, her true story. I remember obtaining this book in audio format, and
during my daily commute, I would listen to it. I re-listened to this book for months, playing it six times
over. The lesson in this book is beautifully simple: self-love. Every day, I begin my day with a sense of
gratitude and optimism.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I found my passion in the jewelry industry and began educating myself in different sectors: design, jewelry sales, diamonds, etc., and took courses at the GIA Gemological Institute of America New York Campus. I’ve spent over four decades in this amazing industry along with my late husband, renowned Award-Winning Jewelry Designer Jose Hess. Together, we expanded our collection from fine jewelry designs to silver designs, accessories, handbags, watches, and eyewear. The brand is named after him, Jose Hess. Today, I continue to maintain the integrity and quality the brand has become synonymous with while opening it up to a new generation concerned with timeless style.
Most recently, the American Jewelry Design Council, a non-profit organization of which my husband was a founding member, celebrated “The Jose Hess Design Awards” to honor my late husband’s vision of recognizing up-and-coming American Jewelry Designers. The event was held in Arizona at the Alfie Norville Gem & Mineral Museum. Six winners were nominated and received grants, as well as a trophy designed by my husband and me.
I also spend time with my non-profit called Come Laugh, where we bring fun programs and gifts to those in need, such as The Ronald McDonald House, Senior Centers, and now essential workers. This work is so special and important to me.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
The qualities that were so impactful in my journey and still true today are, Finding what you love is key. I paid attention to activities that brought me joy and discovered
my why. I’ve always had a passion for creativity. My mother was a seamstress and I have fond
memories of watching her skillfully craft beautiful dresses. I found my own creative outlet in
jewelry design and working with various gems and have expanded my designs to other
accessories.
Trust yourself… I started working in the jewelry industry as a teenager and gained valuable on-
the-job training. The interaction and the behind-the-scenes production that goes on in these
creative industries is priceless, the people I’ve met and still am in touch with, are all over the
World. My advice is Once you discover your passion, take baby steps, and find ways to
immerse yourself in that field. And Please Don’t give up!!
Education, I personally found training courses in my industry and devoted myself to studying
extensively. I believe that If you want to be a professional in your industry and be respected for
your professional knowledge, then you owe it to yourself to get that education.
However, there is also so much to learn from on the job. Whether you acquire it through formal
schooling or on-the-job training, keep learning. I always sought out someone who was already
doing what I loved and I learned from them. I’ve found that most people are eager to mentor
when they see someone with passion and enthusiasm and ready to learn. And remember to
pay it forward, it’s great to help and teach others as well, it’s so rewarding. I love mentoring
and giving back.
Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?
Well, to quote Snoop Dogg ; “I want to thank me for believing in me, I want to thank me for never quitting. And I want to thank me for being me at all times”
The quote may sound like a sense of one’s own importance, but in spirit, this represents self-love. I’ve
also been very fortunate to have two incredible mentors in my life. Firstly, my late husband, award-
winning designer Jose Hess, whom I published a book about title “The Beauty in All.” He was my biggest
supporter, always encouraging me. One of his favorite mottos was “Strong like a Bull” signifying standing
tall in your power and walking with courage, confidence, and positivity.
Secondly, my wonderful son, Attorney Josef B. Hess, has shown me that we can learn so much from our
children. He consistently provides unwavering support and positivity, and he keeps me laughing out
loud.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.maggiehess.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/josehessdesign/ @josehessdesign
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/josehessdesign/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomaggiehess/
