Meet Emmanuel Milian

We were lucky to catch up with Emmanuel Milian recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Emmanuel with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?

Once upon a time, in a bustling city where cultures blended like the vibrant colors of a canvas, there lived a young man named Emmanuel Milian. Emmanuel was the son of immigrants, the first in his family to be born in America. His parents, who had come from humble beginnings, sacrificed everything they knew to give him the chance at a life they had only dreamed of. Their journey wasn’t easy—leaving behind their homeland, their families, and their comfort to start anew in a foreign land. They worked tirelessly, often at jobs that required long hours and hard labor, with little recognition. But they held onto a belief: that their sacrifices would lay the groundwork for their son to create a future they could never have imagined.

Emmanuel grew up with a deep sense of pride in the stories his parents shared—stories of struggle, resilience, and an unwavering determination to build a better life. From them, he learned the value of hard work, of never taking anything for granted, and of always being grateful for the opportunities that came his way. Yet, despite all the lessons, Emmanuel found himself at a crossroads in his journey. Like many others, he was burdened by the weight of his ancestors’ dreams and expectations. He sometimes wondered if he could live up to the legacy they had built.

There was one moment, though, that changed everything. Emmanuel was in a life changing accident where he survived unscathed and unharmed, felt like blessing and a warning. He had just received a second chance at life with this new found perspective. Sitting in his dorm room, reflecting on the path he had taken, he thought about the long nights his parents had spent working, the sleepless hours his grandparents had endured to make sure their family survived, and the dreams his ancestors had clung to, even when it seemed like hope was a far-off star.

That was when it hit him: He wasn’t just building his own future—he was building the future of all those who came before him. He realized that the work ethic, the sacrifices, the determination—these were not just his traits, they were the heartbeat of his entire lineage, passed down through the generations, waiting for someone to carry it forward.

With that realization, Emmanuel made a promise to himself: to honor the sacrifices made for him by forging his own path, no matter how difficult it seemed all while honoring and doing it in the name of God. He understood that success wouldn’t come quickly or easily, but it was never about instant gratification—it was about consistency, about showing up every day and putting in the effort. He started setting small, achievable goals each day, and even when the weight of his family’s dreams felt heavy on his shoulders, he carried it with pride.

As he began to embrace the challenges of his journey, Emmanuel noticed something powerful happening. He wasn’t just building a career or accumulating knowledge—he was also creating a foundation for his future generations, laying down the very bricks that would help them rise even higher than he had. He saw his family’s sacrifices not as burdens but as the fuel for his drive. Each step forward, no matter how small, was a tribute to them.

But it wasn’t just about achieving success for himself. Emmanuel understood that the real power of his journey lay in the lessons he could pass on. He made it his mission to share his story with younger relatives, to remind them of the strength that ran through their veins, and to encourage them to continue the work his family had started.

Over time, Emmanuel’s work ethic transformed into something far deeper. It was no longer just about achieving goals—it became about building a legacy of resilience, determination, and pride for every generation that would follow. His ancestors’ sacrifices had given him a head start, but it was his unwavering commitment to continue pushing forward, to honor their dreams, that would ultimately create a future they could all be proud of.

Emmanuel Milian was no longer just the product of his ancestors’ sacrifices. He was the one who would ensure that those sacrifices would never be in vain—transforming dreams into reality, one step at a time, for generations to come. Honoring his faith and family became his fueling purpose.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

Thank you for the opportunity to share more about myself and Forsaken Grail. My name is Emmanuel Milian, and I’m the founder of Forsaken Grail, a fashion brand with a deeply personal mission. At Forsaken Grail, we are committed to creating sustainable, one-of-a-kind fashion pieces that not only upcycle materials but also explore the complex duality between the carnal world and the spiritual realm. Through every design, we aim to evoke the tension between the raw, physical world we inhabit and the higher, spiritual essence we seek to understand.

What excites me most about Forsaken Grail is how it blends artistry with sustainability. Every piece we create is a reflection of both the tangible and intangible—beautiful, functional fashion that makes a statement. Our goal is to provide our customers with wearable art that makes them feel highly sought-after, even if abandoned or forgotten. We believe that the clothes we wear should carry meaning and tell a story, not just be an accessory to our lives.

What makes Forsaken Grail unique is our commitment to upcycling materials and transforming them into something entirely new. We source fabrics and materials that would otherwise be discarded, breathing new life into them by giving them a second chance. This process is deeply connected to the duality we explore in our designs—the idea that something can be both discarded and yet imbued with incredible value and purpose.

Currently, we are in an exciting phase of growth, working on expanding our collections and reaching more people who are passionate about fashion that tells a story and aligns with their values. We’re also preparing for upcoming collaborations and events such as fashion show runways and pop ups that will allow us to further expand our vision and continue pushing the boundaries of sustainable fashion.

At Forsaken Grail, we don’t just want to make clothes—we want to create pieces that resonate on a deeper level. Each design is crafted with the intention of sparking thought and reflection, allowing our customers to feel both powerful and connected to something greater than themselves. Through this process, we are building a brand that’s not just about style, but about embracing the complexity and beauty of being both human and divine.

Thank you for taking the time to learn more about Forsaken Grail. I’m excited for the journey ahead and to continue creating fashion that speaks to the heart and soul.

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?

Looking back on my journey, there are three qualities and areas of knowledge that have had the most profound impact on my growth and success. Each of these areas has shaped the way I approach both my brand, Forsaken Grail, and my personal development. If I were to share advice with those who are early in their journey, these would be the key areas I would highlight:

1. Learning How to Sew and Make Clothes Myself
One of the most important skills I developed was learning how to sew and create clothing by hand, rather than outsourcing the entire process. In the beginning, it seemed daunting and time-consuming, but this skill became a foundation that allowed me to fully understand and appreciate every aspect of my designs. The ability to bring my ideas to life with my own hands not only gives me creative freedom, but it also ensures that the garments we produce are a true reflection of my vision and the values of Forsaken Grail.

Advice: For those just starting out, I encourage you to invest the time and energy into learning practical, hands-on skills related to your craft. Whether it’s sewing, building, coding, or another skill, having a deep understanding of the process behind your work will give you a stronger sense of control and fulfillment. Start small—take classes, watch tutorials, or simply practice on your own. Over time, this hands-on experience will help you better communicate your ideas and be more resourceful in solving challenges.

2. Learning How to Market the Brand and Myself
As much as the creative process is crucial, understanding how to market both the brand and myself has been equally vital. In the early days, I focused mostly on the craft, thinking that the product alone would speak for itself. But I quickly realized that marketing isn’t just about selling a product—it’s about telling a story, building a connection, and positioning myself as someone who embodies the values of the brand. By learning how to share my journey, my vision, and the meaning behind Forsaken Grail, I’ve been able to connect with people who resonate with what we’re creating.

Advice: For those starting out, understand that marketing is an ongoing process of building relationships, not just transactions. Invest time in understanding who your audience is, what they care about, and how you can authentically communicate your message. Don’t be afraid to show up as yourself—people connect with people, not just brands. Social media, networking, and personal storytelling are powerful tools, so start small and stay consistent. Be genuine, and always remember that marketing is about building trust and community, not just making a sale.

3. Having the Self-Awareness and Wisdom to Seek Help in Areas I Lack In
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the value of self-awareness and knowing when to seek help in areas where I lack expertise. No one can do everything on their own, and there were many moments when I realized that to grow and push my brand forward, I needed to lean on others for guidance. Whether it was hiring someone with a particular skill, seeking mentorship, or collaborating with professionals who complemented my strengths, acknowledging that I couldn’t do everything alone has been key to my progress.

Advice: For anyone early in their journey, it’s crucial to recognize that seeking help is not a weakness—it’s a strength. No one person has all the answers, and surrounding yourself with people who bring different skills and perspectives will accelerate your growth. Don’t hesitate to ask for advice, take on mentorship, or build a support system. Be honest with yourself about where you need help, and be open to learning from those who have experience. The right team or guidance can make all the difference in taking your vision to the next level.

In conclusion, these three qualities—learning how to make things myself, mastering the art of marketing, and having the wisdom to ask for help—have been essential to my journey. For those just starting out, my advice is simple: commit to learning continuously, embrace collaboration, and don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Building something meaningful is a process, and every step you take brings you closer to turning your vision into reality.

As we end our chat, is there a book you can leave people with that’s been meaningful to you and your development?

The book that has played the most important role in my personal and professional development is the Bible, particularly the life teachings of Jesus. The wisdom within the Bible has shaped not only my perspective on life but also how I approach my work, relationships, and challenges. The teachings of Jesus, in particular, offer profound insights into leadership, perseverance, and the way I strive to live with purpose and integrity.

A few of the most valuable nuggets of wisdom that have had a lasting impact on me are:

1. “Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” (Matthew 6:33)
This teaching reminds me to keep my priorities in alignment, focusing on what is truly important—purpose, faith, and integrity—before chasing after external success. It has helped me remember that true fulfillment doesn’t come from external validation or material gain, but from living in alignment with my values and purpose. This perspective helps me stay grounded, even when the pressures of building a brand or growing my business can be overwhelming.

2. “Do to others as you would have them do to you.” (Luke 6:31)
The Golden Rule has deeply influenced how I approach my business and relationships. It has reminded me that every interaction—whether with customers, partners, or my community—should be rooted in empathy, respect, and kindness. I strive to treat others with the same level of care and integrity that I would want for myself. This approach not only strengthens my relationships but also aligns with the values that Forsaken Grail stands for—authenticity and respect.

3. “With God, all things are possible.” (Matthew 19:26)
This teaching has been a powerful reminder during moments of doubt or difficulty. In the face of challenges, I’ve learned that with faith and perseverance, even the most difficult obstacles can be overcome. It encourages me to approach each challenge not with fear, but with a belief that growth is possible, and that through hard work and faith, anything can be achieved.

4. “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven.” (Matthew 5:3)
The humility of this teaching has deeply resonated with me. It reminds me that true greatness isn’t about wealth, status, or achievements—it’s about a humble heart, open to learning, growing, and serving others. This mindset has shaped my approach to business and life, encouraging me to remain grounded and grateful, and to focus on how I can serve and contribute to others’ lives rather than just building my own success.

These teachings from Jesus have not only guided me in moments of doubt or decision, but they have also shaped the culture I want to create at Forsaken Grail—one rooted in humility, service, and authenticity. They remind me that success is not just about achieving goals, but about living in a way that reflects higher values and serves a greater purpose

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Forsakengrail.com
• Instagram: Forsakengrail
• Youtube: ForsakengrailLLC
• Other: @forsakengrail on TikTok