#PassionWednesday with Guromi's ft. Stitched by Storm
Passionate minds pave the way for a promising future this #PassionWednesday! This week, we feature "Guromi ft. Stitched by Storm."
In a world that often moves at a dizzying pace, it's refreshing to encounter individuals who manage to balance the demands of academics with a thriving creative pursuit.
Meet Rax Tan, a dedicated second-year nursing student and the creative force behind "Guromi." He is accompanied by Mikaela Castronuevo, a third-year BS Psychology student and the driving mind behind "Stitched by Storm." Together, they have brought whimsical crochet businesses that have surely been a hit among the trendy students of USLS.
When asked why they started the business, both of them revealed that their interest in the craft started as a hobby during the pandemic. Soon, it bloomed into a passion that they both decided to share after meeting at last year's Lasallian Days when Rax and Mikaela had their business stalls right next to each other. As if it were fate, the two realized how their products perfectly complemented each other, leading to the powerful collaboration they have now.
Through their businesses, Rax transforms colorful threads into creatively adorable crocheted keychains and plushies, while Mikaela weaves the same threads into functional accessories such as themed bucket hats and pouches. Rax highlights the difference in their niche, which we have seen to be the root of their complementary partnership.
Guromi's ft. Stitched by Storm has been quite iconic for the students of USLS because of its unique designs and carefully handmade quality. Guromi's owner, Rax Tan, revealed that he will soon be releasing "starter kits" for those who want to try their hand at crocheting their own unique plushies.
With this in mind, we asked for their advice for those who also wish to turn their hobbies into a thriving business that could provide them with both enjoyment and benefits:
"Love the hustle, and it all comes down to discipline, commitment, and perseverance. Given that nursing is already a very demanding course, finding time for rest can be challenging," Rax said.
"If you're happy doing what you're doing, then nobody can tell you that you're not successful," Mikaela said, quoting Harry Styles.
"Balancing both isn't easy, especially with crochet being so time-consuming. Sometimes I go to school with my bag full of yarn and no yellow pad in sight. It all really comes down to time management and prioritization. Know when to put which one first," she added.
Through Guromi's ft. Stitched by Storm, the stitches of compassion and creativity are intertwined, creating a tapestry of care that is as beautiful as it is inspiring.
Rax Tan and Mikaela Castronuevo, the nursing and psychology students behind Guromi's and Stitched by Storm, are shining examples of how pursuing one's passion can be a source of strength and balance in the midst of life's challenges.
