Giovanna Silvestre grew up in San Luis Obispo, California. She is a popular travel blogger and founder of the unique yoga wear brand Confused Girl in the City. Graduating with honors, she received her International Relations degree from University of Southern California. She went on to work in the entertainment industry for several years. Some of her accomplishments include working with director Kenneth Branagh on the Marvel film “Thor”, co-producing a short film, “The Wind in the Willows,” with Peter Jackson’s company “Weta,” and working as a post production coordinator on the ABC show, “The Mole.” Recently, she has completed a campaign with Audi in Germany. She is one of the first female influencers Audi Deutschland has worked with. As an influencer Giovanna has worked with some of the biggest global brands including T-Mobile, Vitamin Water, Coca-Cola, Target, Walmart, Skinny Cow, Skype, Match.com, Bigelow Tea, Crocs, Lindt Chocolate, Vaseline and many more.
How did you come up with the idea to base your designs on healing crystals?
“Confused Girl in the City” started as a blog 6 years ago. I was lost at the time and wanted to share my feelings with others. I figured I couldn’t be the only confused one out there. It’s funny how we feel we’re the only ones when every human being has either been there, is still there or is going to be there again! My blog took a life of its own and put me on a spiritual journey to find my true nature. Along this journey I met a healer who had a profound effect on me. He had a collection of crystals and told me to pick two to take home. I had these crystals in my room and felt so much joy when I walked past them. One day I was meditating and I had a vision of creating a line of women’s activewear that was inspired by these crystals. So with no money and an idea, I started the journey. I had no idea how I was going to make it happen but I knew I had to do it. I used my part-time job money to fund my business and step by step I was able to create an international activewear business. Now, six years later, I have sold my designs all over the world, we have been featured on Thrive Global, Yoga Digest, Yoga Magazine, Silicon Beach Magazine and on the cover of LA Yoga. We are in select stores in LA and expanding
What has surprised you most about running your own business?
How much you have to believe in yourself and be flexible. You have to be determined, but be willing to change. It’s a balance. If you are too stubborn about your direction, you might miss an opportunity and find yourself stuck.
Who are your biggest professional influences and why?
My parents, because they started from nothing and through hard work and talent were able to achieve their goals.
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Be sure to follow her on Instagram, YouTube and check out her website http://confusedgirlinthecity.com