We recently connected with Gia Huynh and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Gia, thanks for sharing your insights with our community today. Part of your success, no doubt, is due to your work ethic and so we’d love if you could open up about where you got your work ethic from?
My strong work ethic is deeply rooted in the values instilled by my parents while I was growing up in Vietnam, despite our modest circumstances. They imparted the invaluable lesson that one must diligently work for both necessities and aspirations. These teachings continue to shape my character to this very day and I hope to pass that along to my son.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
Our candy, known as “mut rau cau,” is a cherished Vietnamese tradition that has been passed down through centuries and holds a special place in our hearts, as we savor it each year during the Lunar New Year celebration. This tradition inspired me to embark on a journey to create a business with a unique artistic touch, putting my own distinctive mark on this age-old treat.
Coming from a background of adversity, marked by poverty and abusive relationships, I was never able to finish the 5th grade. I’ve always carried a sense of insecurity about my background and education. However, as I grew up and faced many life challenges, destiny took an unexpected turn. About 3.5 years ago, during the COVID-19 pandemic, I found myself homeless with my 5-week-old baby. Despite these hardships, I worked tirelessly day and night to make something extraordinary happen. Eventually, destiny smiled upon me, and I founded Silky Gem. At that time, I was working in a nail salon, making $400-$500 a week as a single mom. I’d work from 9 AM to 7 PM at the salon, then return home to spend time with my son before staying up until 3 or 4 in the morning, crafting candies and creating content. I’ve emerged as a resilient and empowered woman. My hope is that my story will serve as an inspiration for other women to recognize their inherent worth and strength.
After three months of relentless effort, we finally had a breakthrough when we achieved a significant sales milestone, and from there, everything took off. In just 18 months, Silky Gem has sold over 2 million pieces of candy and more than 160,000 collection boxes, with our success reaching a global audience. We even received recognition from Cardi B for our candies.
We are also thrilled to announce the opening of America’s very first crystal candy store in Gaithersburg, MD, a lifelong dream that has now become a beautiful reality. The joy of making this dream come true is immeasurable.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Three of my most prominent qualities are my unwavering self-worth, boundless determination, and relentless drive. During a period of homelessness with my infant, I unearthed an inner strength that propelled me towards success. I am committed to spreading the message that one can achieve anything through sheer determination and a resolute mindset.
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
My family has played an instrumental role in guiding me through the challenging path of overcoming self-esteem issues. They have stood by my side throughout my entire journey, offering unwavering support and love. Furthermore, the experience of motherhood, and the presence of my son, has enabled me to develop a depth of character I never thought possible. They are the bedrock of my life, providing me with strength and a sense of purpose.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.silkygem.com
- Instagram: Silky.gem
- Facebook: Silky Gem
- Linkedin: Silky Gem
- Twitter: Silky Gem Crystal Candy
- Youtube: Silky Gem Crystal Candy
