Gil Gabriel Gonzales, affectionately known as Gabe, is a visionary designer and

co-founder of The Mestizo LA, a brand that beautifully marries culture and style. Though Gabe's journey into the fashion world was not conventional, it has always been a part of his DNA as a second-generation designer. Following the footsteps of his mother, who has dedicated over 50 years to the industry, Gabe's passion for design runs deep.

Born and raised in Manila, Philippines, Gabe spent his formative years immersed in the vibrant tapestry of Filipino culture. His family's travels between the United States and the Philippines exposed him to a diverse range of influences that would later shape his design philosophy. Despite his innate inclination towards fashion, Gabe initially chose to follow a path in healthcare, driven by a heartfelt desire to help others. This led him to enroll in nursing school after high school, where thereafter, he excelled in various roles in the healthcare field.

After several years in nursing, Gabe sought to expand his horizons by obtaining an MBA, paving the way for him to take on management positions within the healthcare industry.

In a unique blend of his family legacy and entrepreneurial spirit, Gabe assumed the role of CEO of his family clothing business in Manila in 2016. His passion for understanding human behavior prompted him to pursue a PhD in business psychology, furthering his commitment to professional development.

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 brought Gabe back into the healthcare

arena, where he played a pivotal role managing the Emergency Room department at

Children’s Hospital. His exceptional leadership abilities soon earned him multiple

promotions, culminating in his appointment as Chief Nursing Officer at a local hospital in Culver City, CA. Despite his success in healthcare, the flame of his fashion aspirations continued to burn brightly within him.

In 2021, alongside his partner Robert Kolosso, Gabe made the bold decision to launch

The Mestizo, a brand that reflects their mixed heritage and encourages inclusivity in

fashion. The brand's name, "Mestizo," denotes a person of mixed races, symbolizing not only Robert & Gabe's own Filipino and Caucasian background but also celebrating the amalgamation of cultures through fashion. Each item designed by The Mestizo is crafted to be accessible and wearable for everyone, embodying a unique blend of aesthetics and cultural narratives.

Now, nearly four years since realizing his dream, Gabe has fully committed his efforts to growing The Mestizo. In 2023, he made the pivotal choice to step away from the healthcare industry, dedicating himself entirely to his passion for fashion and the ongoing development of his brand. Gabe's journey is a testament to the power of following one's passions and the importance of cultural identity, illustrated through the lens of innovative design. He continues to inspire through his work, inviting others to embrace the beauty of diversity and self-expression in every piece he creates.