Guillaume Viau launched Fresh Train Co. with his brother, Alex, after returning from a humanitarian trip to Kenya. As someone highly interested in fashion, his vision was to create a brand that would have a philanthropic aspect to it. Find out how he turned his inspiration into reality in today’s YEDaily…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your business in a nutshell.
Fresh Train Co. is a versatile street-chic brand for individuals who aspire to inspire those within his/her community; one who isn’t afraid to stand out in a crowd and express themselves through their distinctive style.
Why did you start your business, what was the inspiration?
This may sound cliché but when I returned home from a humanitarian trip to Kenya, Africa, I was inspired and motivated to make a difference in North America. As I was highly interested in fashion, my vision was to create a brand that would have a philanthropic aspect to it.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
Being able to express myself through fashion by designing rare/unique pieces. And the fact that although I’m never not working on new and imaginative projects for the brand, it doesn’t feel like work.
The most challenging part is being patient and understanding that everything takes time.
Where do you see your business going in 5 years?
My ambition is to position Fresh Train Co. as a higher-end street wear company within the fashion industry. Working alongside my brother, Alex Viau, we are determined to create a sense of legitimacy in the brand and intend to do so through the use of quality fabrics and materials.
In five years, Fresh Train Co. is to be that go-to brand if you’re interested in unique, yet affordable garments and accessories.
What does success look like to you?
Success is being able to do what you love for a living.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
Seeing various artists and fashion designers, such as Hoodie Allen, Tyler Armes (Down With Webster), Dee & Ricky, Duncan Penn (The Buried Life), and DJ Brendan Fallis (official DJ for Theophilus London) wearing Fresh Train Co. pieces.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
My advice for other young professionals can be summed up in five basic principles; be creative, be daring, be focused, be aware, and be relentless.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
Fresh Train Co. supports Free The Children, a Canadian organization that “believes in a world where all young people are free to achieve their fullest potential as agents of change.”
What is Notable to you?
Notable to me is one who turns nothing into something through outstanding dedication.
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
White iPhone 4S
How do you keep active, energetic, and vibrant?
The fact that life is precarious and not always fair, I treat it like it’s rare. That philosophy keeps me energetic and motivated on a daily basis.
Any last words?
Shout out to any haters ‘cause if you’re trying to bring me down, then I’m obviously above you.
