Gemmy Quelliz
Gemmy Quelliz
An Emerging Latina Building Her Own Empire
A Star On The Rise
Growing up in Los Mina, did you ever imagine yourself working with some of the world’s biggest brands? What fueled your ambitions in those early years?
That’s a deep question. Growing up in Los Mina, I don’t think I fully grasped the scale of what was possible, but I always had big dreams. The environment instilled a certain resilience in me—when you grow up seeing people hustle every day, you learn that nothing comes easy, but everything is possible with determination. My ambitions were fueled by a mix of necessity, passion, curiosity, and the desire to break barriers. I wanted more, not just for myself but for my family and my community. Modeling introduced me to a world far beyond what I had known, and each opportunity pushed me to aim higher. I wanted to represent where I came from with pride and show that someone from my background could work for the biggest brands and appear in the same campaigns as anyone else.
The belief that I belonged in those spaces kept me going
Jewelry Vitaly, La Ruicci / Bodysuit Mugler / Coat Mugler / Boots Stuart Weizmann
You started working in media at just 11 years old. How did those early experiences shape your confidence and work ethic?
Starting in media at such a young age taught me discipline, adaptability, and the importance of presence. At 11, I had to learn how to carry myself professionally, communicate effectively, and handle pressure—all of which shaped my confidence. Being in front of a camera or an audience at that age pushed me out of my comfort zone and made me comfortable in spaces where others might hesitate. It also instilled a strong work ethic early on. I understood that talent alone wasn’t enough; preparation, consistency, and perseverance were just as crucial. Those experiences laid the foundation for everything that came later—whether in modeling, business, or any other endeavor.
The Elite Model Look competition was a turning point in your career. What do you remember most about that experience, and how did it change your life?
Winning first place in the Elite Model Look competition was a life-changing moment. I remember the mix of excitement and nerves leading up to it, knowing that this was an opportunity that could open major doors for me.
I knew in that moment that my life was about to shift in a big way
Sunglasses Prada / Jewelry Vitaly, La Ruicci / Bodysuit Mugler / Coat Mugler
Getting signed by Elite Models afterward was the confirmation that I was stepping into a new chapter. It gave me access to the world I had only dreamed of. It meant traveling, working with global brands, and proving that someone from my background could make it on an international stage. That experience shaped my confidence, my vision, and the way I approached my career from that point on.
You enrolled in university at just 15—what drove you to pursue education at such a young age, and how did it complement your modeling career?
Enrolling in university at 15 was driven by my hunger for knowledge and my desire to build a strong foundation beyond modeling. Studying Social Communication and Journalism allowed me to develop skills in media, and public speaking—things that naturally complemented my career in front of the camera. Being in the fashion industry, I saw firsthand how important it was to understand branding, public relations, and the power of communication. My studies gave me a deeper perspective of the industry, helping me navigate interviews, negotiations, and even the business side of my career. It also reinforced the idea that I wanted to be more than just a model.
I wanted to have a voice and use my platform in meaningful ways
Jewelry Alexis Bittar / Bodysuit Mugler / Coat Famous Furs / Shoes Finesseus
Many people assume modeling is purely about looks, but there's a level of business acumen required. How did you navigate the industry and make strategic decisions about your career?
Modeling is much more than just looks.Modeling is about strategy, branding, and understanding the industry. I approached it with a business mindset, always thinking about the long-term; from choosing the right agencies to negotiating contracts and building a strong personal brand, every decision was intentional. I also made sure to align myself with brands that resonated with my values and image. Networking, staying informed, and knowing my worth were key in making smart career moves.
Breaking Barriers
Being from the Dominican Republic, a country where breaking into high-fashion modeling can seem nearly impossible, what were some of the biggest challenges you faced?
Breaking into high-fashion modeling from the Dominican Republic was an uphill battle, but not my first challenge in life. I grew up facing hunger and emotional instability, and by the age of 7, I was working—selling candies, cookies and coffee on the streets to help my family. My surroundings exposed me to danger, delinquency, prostitution, and drugs, but I refused to let that define me. The fashion industry itself came with its own obstacles; lack of representation, limited opportunities, and the struggle to be taken seriously on a global stage. Those early life experiences gave me purpose, I learned to fight for my place, to see every “no” as motivation, and to carve my own path in an industry where people like me were often overlooked.
Tell us about your experience upon arrival in the U.S. and subsequently the first year of living here?
My first years in the U.S. were far from easy. I had to sacrifice a lot to make one of my biggest dreams a reality—buying my family a house. At the beginning, modeling wasn’t enough to sustain me, so I took on extra jobs while sleeping on a couch just to get by. It was a period of struggle, but also of growth. Those challenges taught me the value of hard work. Every sacrifice I made was a step toward building a better future, not just for myself, but for my loved ones.
You’ve worked with major brands like Sephora, L’Oréal, and Macy’s. Was there a particular moment when you realized, “I made it”?
Working with brands like Sephora, Maybelline, Garnier, L’Oréal, Target, Kohl’s, Forever 21, Bloomingdales, Steve Madden, Macy’s and others was a dream come true, but I don’t think there was a single moment where I thought, “I made it.” Instead, it was a series of milestones—seeing myself in a major campaign, walking into a store and spotting my face, or getting booked for jobs I once thought were out of reach. One moment that really hit me was when I was finally able to buy my family a house. That was when I truly felt the impact of my hard work. Success, to me, wasn’t just about being in big campaigns—it was about using those opportunities to change my life and the lives of those I love.
How did you overcome the industry’s Eurocentric beauty standards and carve out space for yourself as a Dominican model?
Overcoming the industry’s Eurocentric beauty standards wasn’t easy, but I refused to let them define my worth. I knew that representation mattered, and I was determined to carve out space for myself as a Dominican model. Instead of trying to fit into a mold, I embraced my uniqueness—my features, my heritage, my story. It took persistence, and knowing my value. I aligned myself with agencies and brands that celebrated diversity, and I didn’t shy away from speaking up about the need for more inclusivity.
Were there ever moments where you felt underestimated or overlooked in the fashion world? How did you push forward?
Absolutely, but I never let rejection define me. I stayed resilient, worked harder, and used every setback as fuel to prove I belonged.
What does representation mean to you, and what advice can you share to empower other aspiring Dominican models?
Representation means visibility, breaking barriers, and showing that Dominican beauty belongs on the global stage. My advice to aspiring models is to embrace their uniqueness, stay persistent, and never shrink themselves to fit industry standards.
Create your own path, know your worth, and stay true to yourself. Your authenticity is your power.
Jewelry La Ruicci, Alexis Bittar / Two-Piece Maui by Lolita / Shoes Esor Marie
A New Chapter
Moving to the United States at 18 must have been a culture shock. What were the biggest adjustments you had to make?
Moving to the U.S. at 18 was a huge culture shock. The biggest adjustment was being away from my family and spending most of my time alone. I went from a warm, familiar environment to navigating everything on my own; a new language, a new culture, and new challenges. It was tough, but it taught me independence, how to push through and stay focused on my goals—knowing that every sacrifice was for a greater purpose.
What was the most challenging part of transitioning from life in Santo Domingo to navigating the competitive world of international modeling?
The hardest part was going from a place that I always belonged and was never judged by my looks to an industry where I had to constantly prove myself. I faced cultural differences, language barriers, and the pressure of competing in a space where few looked like me. I embraced every challenge as a learning opportunity and never let obstacles shake my determination to succeed.
Looking back, what are some moments you learned from in your journey from Los Mina to the U.S., in your career or personal life that shaped who you are today?
Every challenge; from selling candies in the streets of Los Mina at 7 to sleeping on a couch for years in the U.S. taught me determination and also gave me a grateful heart. Rejection in modeling pushed me to work harder, and being away from my family taught me independence. Each struggle undeniably shaped my character, proving that no obstacle is bigger than my purpose.
How did you balance staying true to your Dominican roots while embracing new opportunities in the U.S.?
I balanced staying true to my Dominican roots by carrying the values I learned from my family with me every day. I celebrated my culture in my life style, my work, and the stories I shared, ensuring that even as I embraced new opportunities in the U.S. or any other country, I never lost sight of who I truly am.
What advice would you give to young women in the Dominican Republic who dream of an international career but feel like it’s out of reach?
To anyone in the Dominican Republic dreaming of an international career: Your heritage is your superpower. Stay true to yourself, and remember that every challenge is a stepping stone. Your roots will always set you apart and open doors you never imagined.
From Model to Restauranteur
You went from the fashion industry to co-owning a restaurant—two very different worlds. What inspired that transition?
The transition from fashion to owning a restaurant was fueled by my desire to blend creativity with my cultural roots. While the fashion industry allowed me to express myself on a global stage, I’ve always had a deep passion for food and the stories it tells about community and heritage. Owning a restaurant became a way to bring people together and share the rich flavors and traditions of my Dominican background in a space with aesthetics that takes you to the Caribbean.
How did the concept of BOKAGUÁ —blending Dominican and Asian cuisine—come about?
The concept for BOKAGUÁ (which means watery mouth) came from my deep love for both Dominican and Asian cuisines—two of my favorite food cultures. I’ve always cherished the vibrant flavors of Dominican cooking and been fascinated by the bold, intricate tastes of Asian cuisine. I wanted to create a restaurant where I could blend them both, honoring my roots while exploring new culinary horizons.
Did you have any prior experience in hospitality, or was this a completely new learning curve for you?
I was completely new to the hospitality business, but I was incredibly fortunate to have my partner for the past nine years—who’s also my mentor. With his extensive experience owning multiple restaurants, he’s been guiding me through every step of this new learning stage.
What skills from modeling and business partnerships helped you succeed in the restaurant industry?
Modeling taught me the art of presentation, confidence, and attention to detail; skills that are essential when creating a unique brand experience. On the other hand, my business partnerships refined my strategic planning, negotiation, and relationship-building abilities. Together, these skills have been key in managing a restaurant that stands out in a competitive industry.
What were some of the biggest surprises or challenges you faced while opening BOKAGUÁ?
One of the biggest challenges was realizing just how complex the restaurant world is compared to modeling. I had to learn everything from operational details to team management, all while ensuring our blend of Dominican and Asian flavors stayed authentic, and the ambiance and service matched our vision; as well as coordinating with suppliers, navigating permits, licensing, and handling the everyday business challenges. Everything has been a steep learning process, pushing me to adapt and innovate every step of the way.
Women’s Empowerment & Legacy
Women’s History Month is about celebrating trailblazers. How do you define empowerment, and what does it mean to you?
For me, empowerment means having the freedom to define my own path and the strength to overcome obstacles. It’s about recognizing my worth, using my voice, and turning challenges into opportunities for growth.
Celebrating empowerment during Women’s History Month reminds me that every woman, regardless of her background, has the power to be a trailblazer and inspire change.
Jewelry La Ruicci, Alexis Bittar / Two-Piece Maui by Lolita / Shoes Esor Marie
You’ve shattered multiple barriers in your career—what legacy do you hope to leave behind for women following in your footsteps?
I hope to leave a legacy that inspires women to trust their voices and challenge themselves. Breaking barriers in my life and my career wasn’t just about personal success—it was about opening doors for those who come after me. I want future generations to see that resilience, authenticity, discipline, determination and faith can transform dreams into reality.
Have you ever had a mentor or role model who shaped your career? And now, do you see yourself as a mentor to others?
Absolutely! My first mentor was my mother, she taught me to dream big and to never settle for anything less than what I deserve. To be ambitious about my dreams and overall to firmly believe in God’s plan for my life. Also as an aspiring model, I always looked up to Rosa Gough. She was one of the first Dominican models to sign internationally, growing up I had her magazine covers all over my bedroom walls, she truly inspired me. Today, she’s not only my best friend and my son’s godmother, but we also share the same mother agency—Ossygeno Models—which discovered us both in the Dominican Republic. There was even a point in my life when I needed a place to stay with my son, and she welcomed us into her home in NY and helped us through those difficult times. Her mentorship and example have been invaluable, and now I strive to pay it forward by guiding, helping and inspiring others.
The restaurant industry, like fashion, is male-dominated at the top. Have you faced any gender-related challenges as a businesswoman and how did you overcome those obstacles?
Yes, I’ve encountered gender-related challenges in both industries. At times, I had to work even harder to be taken seriously and ensure my voice was heard. I overcame these obstacles by relying on my confidence, and a commitment to excellence—letting my work speak for itself. Over time, I built a strong network and learned to assert myself, paving the way for other women in these fields.
What does success mean to you today, and how has that definition evolved over time?
Today, success means more than just external recognition— it’s about personal fulfillment, growth, and making a positive impact on others. In the early days of my career, I measured success by milestones like winning competitions, landing major campaigns or being able to afford material things. Over time, it evolved into a deeper sense of achievements: staying true to my Dominican roots and my story, overcoming challenges, being an example to others, helping those in need and using my platform to empower everyone around me.
A Vision for the Future
Now that you’ve accomplished so much, what’s next? Do you see yourself expanding Bokaguá, returning to acting, or even mentoring young entrepreneurs?
God’s willing, I’m not stopping anytime soon. I plan to expand Bokaguá by opening more restaurants, specifically in the Dominican Republic and launching additional businesses to further build my brand. At the same time, acting has always been my biggest dream—I’ve been studying and preparing for it, and I’m proud to say I’m currently a SAG actor. It’s all about embracing new opportunities and being prepared while continuing to evolve.
What is one piece of advice you wish you had received when you were starting out?
I wish someone had told me to trust the journey and embrace every setback as a lesson. Early on, I was so focused on external validation that I didn’t always see the value in my struggles. When I first arrived in the U.S., the challenges I faced pushed me to the edge— I battled depression and was close to giving up on my dreams. Now, I know that every obstacle is a closer step towards your goals and having faith in God and believing in yourself is the key to keep you going.
If you could have a conversation with your 7-year-old self-selling coffee and cookies in Santo Domingo, what would you tell her?
If I could speak to my 7-year-old self, I’d tell her to hold on to her dreams even when the road seems rough. I’d remind her that selling candies and cookies is teaching her resilience, a work ethic, and a kindness that will shape her future. Every challenge she faces now is building the strength and character she needs to become someone unstoppable. I’d remind her to keep believing in herself because those humble beginnings are just the start of an extraordinary journey ahead of her.
What lessons from your journey do you hope to pass on to future generations of women entrepreneurs?
The biggest lesson I hope to pass on is that every challenge is an opportunity to grow. I want future women entrepreneurs to know that setbacks aren’t failures—they’re steppingstones that build strength and character.
Embrace your unique journey, stay true to your roots, and use every experience as fuel for your dreams. Your perseverance and passion will not only empower you but also pave the way for others to follow.
Jewelry Versace, Alexis Bittar, 8other Reasons / Outfit Elif Cigizoglu / Shoes Steve Madden
What message do you hope people take away from your story?
I hope people take away that your beginnings don’t dictate your future, that no matter where you come from or what you’ve been through—every challenge you face is an opportunity to grow and redefine what seems impossible and that my story is a reminder that your struggles can guide you to forge your own unique path forward.
Gemmy Quelliz: An Emerging Latina Building Her Own Empire
Photography Gabriel Lopez de Jesus @iam.gaboo, Make-up Artist Naty Morales @beautybynatym, Hairstylist Patrick Dorsainville @__slaygod, Wardrobe Stylist Aaron Hawkins @aaronhawkins__, Wardrobe Stylist Assistant Esther Lamour @estherlamour, Creative Director Alline Alvarez @blissfulali, Production Handz Dirty PR @handzdirtypr,
For more with Gemmy Quelliz, follow her on Instagram: @gemmyquelliz