APERITIF WITH YOMI: GABRIELA HERSHAM

We have invited entrepreneur Gabriela Hersham in our series “Apéritif with YOMI”. 

Gaby is the CEO & Co-Founder of Huckletree @huckletree, building and leading the business since their doors first opened in 2014, and on their journey to becoming one of the key players in the UK’s workspace sector. A strong advocate for diversity in entrepreneurship, Gaby is an advisor to several other founders and an angel investor. 

We asked her a few questions about her journey and her perspective on dressing up.

What's your aperitif of choice, and why does it resonate with you?

I don’t drink now, but when I did, a Negroni was my favourite.

What challenges have shaped your journey, both personally and/or professionally?

Building Huckletree from the ground up has been a challenge that shaped me beyond what I ever imagined. Overcoming adversity, pivoting during tough times, and learning to stand strong in my values and instincts have been transformative. I am an entirely different person today to who I was ten years ago, when I was just starting. 

How does slipping into a YOMI blazer make you feel?

Empowered and ready to face the world. A well-cut blazer has that effect—it aligns with who I try to be: strong, determined, and ready to take on each step of the journey.

Who or what has been instrumental in helping you become the woman you are today?

My mother, Aida, has been my greatest influence. Her grace, resilience, and unwavering belief in me gave me so much confidence in myself. She makes me feel seen and valued, grounding me in ways that keep me true to myself.

What ignites your passion and makes you feel most alive in your work?

Building communities where people thrive—spaces where ideas are born and friendships and partnerships flourish. Knowing I’m contributing to creating environments where teams can reach their potential is incredibly rewarding.

Do you have any regrets?

I find it hard to live with regret, so instead I choose to see each experience, even those I once questioned, as essential in shaping who I am becoming. This way, I push myself to see even the more challenging experiences as learning moments that guide me forward with more clarity.

Tell us about a woman who’s had a lasting influence on your life or whom you deeply admire.

I’m inspired by my circle of girlfriends, many of whom are building something meaningful, pushing boundaries, and making their own marks in the world. Their combination of ambition and unwavering support for one another remind me daily of the strength found in friendship and shared drive.

What do you wear when you want to feel seductive, make a bold statement or send a ‘Don’t F… with me’ message?

A perfectly tailored power suit. There’s something about a sharp blazer and fitted trousers that commands attention. It’s bold, confident, and makes me feel unstoppable. There’s power in simplicity, and this look always feels like armour—confident and unapologetic.

What are the specific moment(s) or word(s) that's had a major impact on your life’s direction?

One piece of advice stands out: "Trust yourself." It’s a reminder to follow my intuition, especially in moments of doubt, and it’s guided me through some of the biggest decisions in my career.

What piece of advice would you give to a young girl on her journey to becoming a woman?

Embrace who you are without compromise. Be curious, trust your instincts, and never be afraid to take up space.