Meet Eduardo Castro | Entrepreneur

We had the good fortune of connecting with Eduardo Castro and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Eduardo, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
My thought process behind starting my own business was to find a niche in the community that wasn’t being offered. After being involved in the community and working and speaking to members of the community I found out that a niche was being left out and I wanted to be able to provide a alternative to what was already being offered making sure the entire community was having their needs met and welcomed.

What should our readers know about your business?
Please tell us more about your business.

Pride at Night AZ is revolutionizing the way we celebrate and support the LGBTQ+ community, offering a fresh and mature twist to traditional pride events. This innovative concept is designed to enrich the pride experience by highlighting unique aspects of the community, businesses, and entertainment options that are often overlooked. With monthly events leading up to a grand celebration in June for Pride Month, Pride at Night AZ aims to provide an inclusive and judgment-free environment where individuals can express themselves freely and fully. This initiative not only promises fun and entertainment but also a deeper connection and understanding within the community.

We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others,

Pride at Night AZ is a unique and vibrant celebration that extends the spirit of Pride beyond the confines of a single month, offering year-round events that bring the LGBTQ+ community together. Unlike traditional Pride festivals that often concentrate their activities into a brief period, Pride at Night AZ creates continuous opportunities for connection, celebration, and support. This initiative ensures that the energy, love, and advocacy associated with Pride are sustained throughout the year, fostering a more enduring sense of community.

Catering primarily to a mature audience, Pride at Night AZ focuses on creating safe, inclusive, and exciting experiences for individuals aged 21 and over. By doing so, it provides a space where adults can engage in meaningful conversations, enjoy sophisticated entertainment, and build connections in an environment tailored to their interests and needs. This approach allows for more freedom in event planning, enabling organizers to host activities that might not be suitable for a family-friendly setting, thereby enhancing the diversity and richness of the Pride experience.

Significantly, Pride at Night AZ also shines a spotlight on communities within the LGBTQ+ spectrum that are often underrepresented in mainstream Pride events. By doing so, it ensures that voices from all corners of the community are heard and celebrated. Whether it’s through themed parties, cultural showcases, or educational workshops, Pride at Night AZ endeavors to create an inclusive platform that honors the unique identities and experiences of everyone involved. This dedication to inclusivity and continuous celebration makes Pride at Night AZ a cornerstone of the LGBTQ+ community in Arizona.

what you are most proud of or excited about.

Building an event or festival from scratch is an impressive and rewarding endeavor, especially in the fifth largest city in the United States. Your pride in this potential is well-placed, as creating something that brings people together can have a profound impact on the community. This opportunity allows you to curate unique experiences that reflect the diverse culture and interests of the city’s residents. Whether it’s a music festival, cultural celebration, or a community fair, the possibilities for innovative and engaging events are endless.

One of the most exciting aspects of organizing events in a large city is the ability to reach a wide and varied audience. The diversity and scale of urban environments provide a rich tapestry of ideas and influences to draw from, enabling you to create events that are not only entertaining but also meaningful and inclusive. The logistical challenges of planning and executing a large-scale event can be daunting, but they also offer a chance to develop valuable skills in project management, marketing, and coordination.

Moreover, successful events can become cherished traditions that contribute significantly to the city’s cultural landscape. They can foster a sense of community, celebrate local talent, and even boost the local economy. By bringing something unique and different to the table, you have the power to create memorable experiences that resonate with people long after the event has ended. Your vision and hard work can turn an idea into a beloved event that people look forward to year after year, making a lasting positive impact on the city and its residents.

How did you get to where you are today business-wise. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges?

Since moving to Phoenix in 2008, I immersed myself in the LGBTQIA+ community by volunteering with various organizations. In 2015, I was recruited to join the Phoenix Pride Entertainment Committee, and I am now celebrating my tenth year with the organization, currently serving as Assistant Festival Coordinator. My involvement with these organizations has been instrumental in connecting me with prominent figures in the community, enabling me to establish valuable networks and gain a deeper understanding of the diverse aspects and experiences within the LGBTQIA+ community.

Listening to the stories, struggles, and triumphs of community members has profoundly influenced my personal and professional growth. These experiences have enriched my perspective and provided me with a wealth of knowledge that has been pivotal in my role as a producer. By leveraging these insights, I have been able to bring unique and innovative events to the Valley of the Sun, further establishing myself as a leader within the Phoenix LGBTQIA+ community.

My journey in Phoenix has been an incredible testament to the power of community engagement and advocacy. The connections and relationships I have built over the years have not only strengthened my professional career but have also fostered a sense of belonging and purpose. As I continue to contribute to the Phoenix LGBTQIA+ community, I remain committed to supporting and uplifting its members, celebrating our diversity, and creating inclusive and vibrant spaces for all.

What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way.

Throughout my journey, I’ve learned that not everything will unfold exactly as you envision it. This realization, however, should never deter you from focusing on your goals. In the world of business, struggles and setbacks are inevitable. These challenges can be disheartening, but it’s crucial to remember why you embarked on this path in the first place. Reconnecting with your core motivations can provide the necessary drive to persevere, even when the going gets tough.

A business, much like life, is a series of trials and errors. There will be moments of doubt and frustration when things don’t go as planned. But these moments are also opportunities for growth and learning. Each obstacle you encounter can teach you something valuable about your business, your market, and even yourself. Embracing these lessons can help you adapt and innovate, ultimately making your business stronger and more resilient.

In the end, it’s your passion and determination that will see you through the rough patches. By keeping your goals in sight and continually reminding yourself of your purpose, you can maintain the motivation needed to push forward. Remember, success is not just about reaching the destination but also about the journey and the perseverance that gets you there. Stay focused, stay motivated, and let your vision guide you through the challenges.

What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?

Pride at Night AZ was established to bring something different to the community, to include those who don’t feel included, and to work together with various organizations to strengthen missions for all to succeed. Our story is simple: the impossible is always possible with hard work and dedication.

Pride at Night AZ was born out of a vision to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone, especially those who often feel marginalized. We recognize that there are many individuals who may not feel comfortable or represented in traditional spaces, and we aim to bridge that gap. By hosting events, workshops, and collaborative projects, we strive to foster a sense of belonging and unity within the community. Our goal is to ensure that every person, regardless of their background, has a place where they feel seen, heard, and valued.

Collaboration is at the heart of our mission. We work hand-in-hand with a variety of organizations, each bringing their unique strengths and perspectives to the table. By pooling our resources and expertise, we are able to create more impactful and sustainable initiatives that benefit everyone involved. Whether it’s through joint events, shared advocacy efforts, or mutual support networks, our partnerships are designed to uplift and empower the entire community. Pride at Night AZ is a testament to the power of hard work and dedication, proving that when we come together with a common purpose, the impossible becomes possible.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend was visiting the area for a week-long trip, we would kick off the adventure by immersing them in the stunning natural habitat of Arizona. Our first stop would be exploring the picturesque mountains and iconic cacti, ideal for hiking enthusiasts. We’d stroll through the Desert Botanical Garden, where the diverse flora and fauna offer a captivating glimpse of the desert’s beauty. With its striking landscapes and serene trails, it’s the perfect introduction to Arizona’s natural wonders.

Next, we would head up north to visit some of Arizona’s most renowned attractions. The Grand Canyon, with its breathtaking vistas and awe-inspiring geological formations, is a must-see. A day trip to Sedona would follow, where the vibrant red rock formations and mystical energy are sure to captivate. We wouldn’t miss Saguaro National Park, home to the nation’s largest cacti, offering a unique and memorable experience. Each of these destinations showcases the diverse and enchanting scenery Arizona has to offer.

Our culinary journey would be just as exciting. We’d savor the flavors at local gems like Barrio Café, known for its authentic Mexican cuisine, and JOJO Coffeehouse, a perfect spot for breakfast and brunch. For a refreshing treat, Eegee’s offers delightful frozen drinks and sandwiches. As the sun sets, we’d transition to a more vibrant nightlife, dancing the night away at Charlie’s Phoenix, Maya Day Club, and Hot Chick. For a bit of retail therapy, we’d visit Scottsdale Fashion Square or Chandler Fashion Square, where a wide array of shops and boutiques would satisfy any shopper’s cravings. This week-long itinerary promises an unforgettable blend of nature, culture, dining, and entertainment.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
The Phoenix Pride Organization is an organization that I dedicate this shoutout too. I’ve been a volunteer for the Phoenix Pride Organization for 10 years and seeing the hardworking and dedication from staff and volunteers and the impact that they make in the community was an inspiration to start my own business and non profit organization.

Website: https://www.prideatnightaz.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/prideatnightaz

Twitter: https://x.com/prideatnightaz

Image Credits
Edward Michael