A little more about us…
My Creative Outlet (MYCO) emerged from the depths of a mundane 9–5 design job, driven by the yearning to connect with like-minded creatives. Fast-forward to the tumultuous year of 2020, in the midst of a pandemic, we embarked on a mission to seek out these like-minded individuals. We slid into the DMs of local creatives and embarked on candid conversations, delving into their creative journeys and how they found solace amidst the seismic shifts reshaping our world. That year, we interviewed 52 creatives, an experience that illuminated the vital need for nurturing diverse creative voices, forging connections, and sharing them within our vibrant local community.
Today, MYCO has evolved into a creative lab with two distinct facets: a dynamic creative studio and a passionate community builder. The creative studio collaborates with community-oriented organizations, businesses, and entrepreneurs to craft their brand identities and strategies, seamlessly integrating them into their local markets and communities. On the other hand, our community builder facet stands as a beacon for celebrating and empowering diverse creators and entrepreneurs. We join forces with them to host workshops, panels, pop-up events, and other community-driven initiatives, all designed to enrich and uplift our local and multicultural communities.
Our foundational belief is that creativity is stronger in a community.
Quote from interview with @homme_dc
Cocktail Class, May 2023
Our Values
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Creativity
We celebrate creativity in all its forms. Whether you are a business owner growing your business, a creator pursuing your craft, or simply figuring it out, we are your biggest cheerleaders and will hype you up through our work.
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Community
Community is everything to us. We aim to create it through our work in branding and events to empower our clients and peers, making everyone feel seen and represented.
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Collaboration
Collaboration is our secret weapon and where we believe the magic happens. We value collaboration over competition and believe that working together creates impact, empathy, and spaces where we can share stories and learn from each other.
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Passion
Our fourth value, breaking our c-word pattern but infused in all we do, is bold passion. We are deeply passionate about our work, our partners, and believe we can infuse this passion to elevate your business success.
MEET YOUR TEAM
Sarah Cornejo
Founder & Creative Director
Hello! My name is Sarah Cornejo. I am a proud first-gen Peruvian and raised here in the local DM(V) community. I’m all about creating spaces for my local community and amplifying their stories in the most authentic way possible.
I am a creative director and graphic designer, I’ve journeyed through diverse industries in the DC area, from corporate to start-ups, nonprofits, and even a failed venture of building my own start-up abroad. It was through these experiences that I discovered my calling and passion: leveraging my creative skills in design and human connection to create inclusive spaces and amplify the voices of multicultural communities. Growing up first-gen and pursuing a creative career didn’t have a roadmap, but one thing it has taught me: creating shared spaces and experiences provides support, and empowerment, and sheds light on those who might otherwise be overlooked due to their background or life circumstances. If you are not invited to the table, then make your own!
When I am not immersed in the world of MYCO or designing, you’ll likely find me hanging with my family or friends, exploring the latest restaurants and bars, collecting passport stamps, or hanging with my cat-bestie named Mochi.
Thi Nguyen
Business Development
Hi, friends! My name is Thi Nguyen, and I'm a Vietnamese immigrant who has had the privilege of living on both the East and West Coasts. Please don't ask me to choose a favorite coast, though :). I do have a tattoo of the Oakland Bridge on my leg, if that's any hint...
I'm a marketing and communications specialist with experience in a community-driven, public health nonprofit. I'm also a bartender and bar consultant, collaborating with multicultural restaurants and bars in both the Bay Area and DC. Lastly, I take immense pride in being the owner of an Asian-inspired syrup line which beautifully captures the rich flavors of my Vietnamese heritage. Yes, I wear many hats! Thanks to this diverse background and my personal journey, I'm well-equipped to support our clients in their business endeavors, offering them a unique perspective and effective strategies for their target markets.
When I'm not wearing any of my many hats, you can find me exploring the latest cocktail bars in the area, traveling to spend quality time with friends and family, or gearing up for the next exciting cocktail competition. Cheers!
Alejandra Valenzuela
Digital Marketing Specialist
Hey (: my name is Alejandra Valenzuela. I was born in Lima, Peru. Five and a half years ago, my adventure in the United States began, showing me that there are many wonderful things to discover in the world.
I am a senior public relations student with a minor in marketing. I have experience in fields such as non-profit, start-up, and agency. I am passionate about mental health, meditation, and everything that allows me to connect with myself, nature, fashion, exercising, and all forms of self-expression.
I have tried different majors before finding my path in verbal, non-verbal, and visual communication. My college journey began with a degree in translation and interpretation, then I changed my major to biology, and finally, public relations. It has been a long journey, but one that was worth it. For those who feel confused about which major to choose or how to know what they want, I will tell you to be patient and enjoy your journey. You are where you are because there is something you must learn, and the future awaiting you is bright and enriching. Trust and don’t let fear stop you :) you got this!
I love spending time with my family and loved ones, time alone with myself, and creating memories.