In our section “Every Hispanic immigrant has their story” this month we bring you the story of Gonzalo Galeano, a young entrepreneur who is passionate about sales and being able to help those who appreciate and need it.

 

Seeing so many young people who want to improve themselves and focus on what they are truly passionate about excites us and inspires respect and admiration.

 

Gonzalo started his own car sales business in Hollywood, Florida, but before that, he had worked in a friend's business in the same industry. There, he gained enough experience to open his own company. His passion for sales had inspired him years earlier to open his own mobile shoe sales truck, featuring a well-known brand popular with young people. With his truck, Solekicks on Wheels, he has participated in various events in Miami, Broward, and Palm Beach counties, promoting his innovative idea.

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When did you arrive in the United States and why?

I arrived in the United States at the age of 9. My parents made the decision to emigrate from Colombia in search of better opportunities and a more stable future for our family. Gonzalo is originally from Armenia, Colombia

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Do you feel that this is where you really want to be, or do you think that upon retiring you would like to return to your native country?

I love living in the United States and I greatly value the opportunities it has given me. However, in the long term, I would like to retire and live in a Latin American country where I can enjoy a quieter life and feel more connected to my roots.

 

What did you study?

I studied Political Science at Florida Atlantic University (FAU) in Boca Raton, where I graduated in 2010. In 2009, I interned in Washington, D.C., at the Attorney General's office. At that time, my dream was to study law and become a lawyer. However, after working at several law firms, I realized that this path didn't make me happy. I then decided to venture into the world of sales, starting at a friend's car dealership. That experience was key, as it allowed me to develop sales skills and start my own business: AUTOPLAZA, my own used car dealership located in Hollywood, Florida. If you had to advise young people who are about to begin a university degree, what would you recommend?

I would tell them to understand that university isn't for everyone. The most important thing is that they study or dedicate themselves to something that truly makes them happy and that they are willing to work with passion and discipline.

 

Within your work, what area do you like the most and which has given you the greatest satisfaction?

Definitely sales and customer service. I find it rewarding to help people make important decisions and provide them with a positive experience, going beyond simply closing a sale.

 

Regarding immigrants who take the wrong path, what position do you take to guide them?

I firmly believe in leading by example. I always try to guide and motivate other immigrants to make the right decisions, reminding them that opportunities exist, but they require effort, perseverance, and responsibility. The right path may be slower, but it's the only one that's truly worthwhile.

 

What do you like to do in your free time? Do you have any particular hobbies?

I love sneakers. I'm a collector and I opened a mobile shop called SoleKicks on Wheels, which we use to participate in different events in South Florida. I also really enjoy playing and watching soccer.

 

What do you want most in life, both professionally and personally?

Professionally, I want to continue growing as an entrepreneur and expand my projects. Personally, I desire stability, peace of mind, and the opportunity to enjoy the fruits of my labor with my family.

 

As a young entrepreneur, what do you consider the worst mistake made by those who pursue the “American Dream”?

One of the biggest mistakes is failing to focus on reality, seeking quick results, and choosing paths that don't generate long-term growth. Success isn't immediate; it requires patience, financial literacy, and perseverance.

I believe the true “American Dream” is not just about making money, but about building a life with purpose, integrity, and balance, without forgetting where we come from.