We had the good fortune of connecting with Johany Torres-Maya and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Johany, how do you think about risk?
Risk taking has played a major part of my success. I truly believe in if you do the hard things in life everything else you do will be easier. Stepping out of my comfort zone and doing the things I never thought I would do, have been the things I do now the most and have helped me tremendously. Think of that one thing you can do in your career that can take you to the next level but your terrified of doing, and just do it.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am a cake artist that loves to create edible art in bright & bold colors that make a statement. When I create edible art my main intention is to always create something that hasn’t been done before. In the baking world it’s very common to see bakers make the same cakes. However, I never duplicate someone’s work, When I started baking duplicating other bakers work is all I did, If it’s what the client wanted it’s what I made. But overtime, I wasn’t happy, and I felt like a robot just making the same cakes all the time. Once I became more confident in my work, I steered away from creating cakes that other bakers already made. Instead, I sketched my own version of whatever theme it is the client wants and begin to create. In the end, I’m happy and so is the the client receiving a cake that is custom & unique.

It took me over 10 years to get where I am today. I am self taught and after many fails and mistakes, I wouldn’t change it for anything. I’m now more confident, strong, and happy in what I do. It’s easy to get lost in social media seeing others accomplishments or their “perfect” work, but it’s important to know when it’s your time, it’s your time! Not all of us can have success at the same time, sometimes we’re not even ready for it. Be patient and your time will come.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would take my best friend to Culebra, Puerto Rico. Culebra is small island surrounding a group of cays off the east coast of Puerto Rico. It’s a magical place with crystal clear water and beautiful white sand. At night if your brave and get into the ocean you can see bioluminescent that are microscopic, organisms called dinoflagellates that grow in quantities big enough to produce a “glow-in-the-dark and move in whatever direction your hand goes. The people on this small island are so kind and you’ll find some of the best Caribbean food you’ll ever eat!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
A huge shoutout to my husband Ruben Maya. Without his support & help I would not be where I am today.

Website: Www.joscakeshop.com

Instagram: @joscakes_

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