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The importance of second chances is the message that this former drug dealer, now manager of a pastry company, wants to convey. Antwoin Gutierrez was imprisoned 3 times and spent a total of 4 years in prison. Today, he has opened his own brand, Fresh Taste Bakery, after years of experience in kitchens and restaurants. For Brut, he bears witness.
“I began to develop my entrepreneurial spirit in a somewhat dubious way, selling illicit drugs at home. I learned sales, I learned money management, I learned ambition. And it trained me really well to become an entrepreneur and know how to manage ups and downs. That’s why I say: transform your job. If you are caught in the deal, you can easily become a business manager, set up your business.”
“I was selling marijuana, that kind of stuff. I was pretty good at sales and marketing. I was good enough to do that. But I’m not really proud of it.“After spending several years of his life selling drugs, Antwoin Gutierrez ended up being imprisoned on various occasions. Once released from prison, the young man had the possibility of obtaining accommodation and professional training, thanks to the non-profit organization “The Doe Fund”. It was then that her passion for baking was revealed. For years, he gained experience in restaurant kitchens, before opening his own brand: Fresh Taste Bakery.
“The Doe Fund helped me a lot, it gave me a framework. I also participated in entrepreneurship programs like the Defy Venture. I didn’t follow a traditional culinary school route. Everything comes from my passion and my experience.” Now, the young entrepreneur likes to share his story to encourage people to find their passion. “Since I discovered this gift, that of baking, I have been going to elementary schools, high schools, colleges, HIV clinics, prisons, to lead by example and spread my message. Even when you’ve been in prison three times, you can discover a passion.”