We recently connected with Natalie Guzman and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Natalie, appreciate you sitting with us today to share your wisdom with our readers. So, let’s start with resilience – where do you get your resilience from?
My resilience comes largely from my upbringing with a strong single mother. Watching her navigate life’s challenges with unwavering strength and a positive outlook has had a profound impact on me. She taught me to find the good in every situation, even when it seems invisible to others. Her ability to remain unbroken by adversity inspired me to do the same.
Additionally, as a Latina, I feel a strong sense of responsibility to represent my community. I believe that my journey is not just about me; it’s about the young girls who have dreams and aspirations. I want to show them that they can overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. My mother’s strength and my cultural heritage fuel my determination to be a role model and uplift those around me.”
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
As a proud mother of two young children and the owner of The Walk Inn, a unique Dominican speakeasy cocktail bar and restaurant in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, I feel deeply connected to my roots. My parents’ families migrated from the Dominican Republic in the late 1970s, working tirelessly to achieve the American dream. Their hard work and perseverance inspire me every day.
The Walk Inn is not just a restaurant; it’s a celebration of our Latino heritage and a stand against gentrification in our community. We focus on authentic Latin dishes and carefully curated cocktails, aiming to create an inviting atmosphere where everyone feels at home. With over 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry, I knew that creating this venue was my calling.
I take immense pride in bringing together my fellow Latinos, whether they’re enjoying dinner or dancing on our lively Thursday Latin nights. My goal is to ensure that every guest leaves with a sense of joy and a feeling of jubilee in their hearts. The support from the Latin community fuels my passion and drives me to continuously improve and grow. It’s a true honor to contribute to our culture and create a space where everyone feels valued and celebrated.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back on my journey, I would highlight three qualities that have been most impactful: being open-minded, persistent, and hopeful.
Being open-minded has allowed me to embrace new ideas and perspectives, which is crucial in the ever-evolving hospitality industry. Persistence has been my guiding force, helping me navigate challenges and keep pushing forward, even when the road gets tough. Lastly, maintaining hope has been essential; it fuels my passion and keeps my vision alive, especially during difficult times.
Additionally, having a strong support team has been invaluable. Surrounding myself with people who believe in my vision and encourage me has made all the difference in keeping me motivated and focused.
To those who are early in their journey, my advice is simple: keep going. Hard work and dedication will always pay off in the long run. It’s normal to experience doubt, but don’t let it dictate your outcome. Trust in your vision and believe that the universe will align to support you. Faith is a vital ingredient in the recipe for success; it has been my anchor through every challenge and triumph. Embrace these qualities, build a supportive network, and you’ll find your path will unfold in ways you never imagined.
What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
The most impactful thing my parents did for me was instilling a strong work ethic. They taught me the value of hard work and dedication, showing me that success comes from effort and resilience. As immigrants, they broke barriers and faced numerous challenges, yet they persevered. Their lives were a testament to the belief that with determination, anyone can overcome oppression and achieve their dreams.
They worked multiple jobs to provide a healthy and supportive environment for my siblings and me, demonstrating what it means to strive for a better life. Watching them fight for our family’s future inspired me to do the same. Their commitment to our family and their relentless pursuit of better opportunities shaped my understanding of hard work and the importance of resilience. Their example has been a guiding force in my own journey, reminding me that dedication and perseverance can help us rise above challenges and create a brighter future.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.thewalkinn.com
- Instagram: @Thewalkinn_NY
- Other: TikTok. @thewalkinnbk
Image Credits
Pictures were taken on my phone.
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
