We were lucky to catch up with Gabriela Gonzalez recently and have shared our conversation below.
Gabriela, first a big thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and insights with us today. I’m sure many of our readers will benefit from your wisdom, and one of the areas where we think your insight might be most helpful is related to imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is holding so many people back from reaching their true and highest potential and so we’d love to hear about your journey and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
To be honest, I didn’t “overcome” it in one dramatic moment, I grew through it. I carried a lot of emotional weight. I was constantly hearing negativity, people doubting me, even laughing at the idea that I could create something valuable. For a long time, I internalized that.
But imposter syndrome feeds off the belief that we don’t belong in the spaces we’ve earned. So, I started reminding myself that my story, my background, my perspective. All of that is my value. I got into UGC (user-generated content) creation with nothing but a phone and a vision, and slowly, brand by brand, message by message, I started to realize: “Wait. They see something in me. Maybe I should too.”
What changed wasn’t the outside validation, it was when I stopped waiting for permission to believe in myself. I stopped comparing my path to others. I leaned into being raw, real, and resourceful. And that’s when everything started shifting. Now, brands reach out to me. They want me, my energy, my creativity.
So no, I didn’t silence imposter syndrome. I learned to speak louder than it. And if you’re reading this and doubting yourself, let me say this clearly: your past doesn’t disqualify you. It prepares you. Keep showing up. Even if your voice shakes, even if nobody claps at first. You’re not an imposter, you’re just getting started.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I’m Gabriela, a UGC creator based in Los Angeles, originally from Guatemala. I specialize in creating content that feels honest, relatable, and human. My work is all about helping brands build genuine connections with their audience through storytelling that resonates.
My journey into content creation happened naturally. I started by sharing simple, everyday moments, and over time, I saw how powerful it is when people feel seen through content. That’s what drew me into UGC, the ability to create work that’s not overly polished, but real. Content that feels like it’s coming from a friend, not a brand.
Coming from a background where I’ve had to build things from the ground up, I carry that same drive and intentionality into every project I take on. I’ve collaborated with brands in beauty, lifestyle, and wellness industries where trust and authenticity truly matter. I always aim to create content that not only performs, but feels right.
For me, UGC is more than just a type of content, it’s about connection. It’s about showing up with purpose, and helping brands speak to people in a way that’s natural and true.
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?
Three things have really shaped my journey as a UGC creator: adaptability, storytelling, and consistency.
Adaptability is huge in this space. Trends change fast, platforms evolve, and every brand has a different voice. Being able to pivot quickly whether that’s trying a new format, learning a new editing style, or shifting your creative direction is essential. My advice: stay curious and open. Don’t be afraid to experiment or start small. That’s where real growth happens.
Storytelling is at the heart of what makes UGC powerful. It’s not just about showcasing a product, it’s about making the viewer feel something or see themselves in the content. You don’t need fancy equipment to do that; you just need to understand the why behind the message. The best way to improve? Watch what resonates with you and study why it works. Then practice telling your own stories in a way that feels natural and true to you.
Lastly, consistency. Not just in how often you post, but in showing up with intention. UGC is a long game. It takes time to build trust, refine your style, and attract the right collaborations. The key is to keep going even when it feels slow. Small steps add up.
To anyone just starting out: trust your voice. You don’t need to be perfect, you just need to be real. Brands are looking for that now more than ever.
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?
If I had to name one person who’s been absolutely instrumental in my journey, it’s my partner, Oscar. He’s more than just my boyfriend, he’s my anchor. He carries this quiet strength and discipline that’s incredibly grounding. When the creative world feels unpredictable or overwhelming, Oscar is the steady force that keeps me balanced.
What makes him truly special is how he understands the value of persistence without pressure. He’s never pushed me to rush or be perfect; instead, he listens, encourages, and reminds me to trust my own pace. That kind of support coming from someone who knows what it means to commit and endure tough situations has helped me build resilience and confidence in my work.
He’s also been a sounding board for ideas and a safe space to be vulnerable. The conversations we have, whether about the challenges I’m facing or the small victories, give me clarity and calm
Beyond him, I owe a lot to my family. Those regular calls with them, hearing their voices and feeling that unconditional love across the miles, fuel my motivation. Their belief in me, even from far away, is a constant reminder of where I come from and why I’m doing this.
And then there are my friends, both here and back home, who cheer me on in the small moments and the big wins. Their support is the kind that doesn’t need to be loud but is felt deeply. They keep me connected and remind me that I’m not doing this alone.
All of that combined. Oscar, my family, my friends, it’s the foundation that lets me show up fully as a creator. Success isn’t just about skills or strategy; it’s about the people who hold you up when things get tough, and I’m incredibly grateful for mine.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/gabs.gz
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabs.gz/
- Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@gabsdotgz?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
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