Today we’d like to introduce you to Eran Gonzalez.
Hi Eran, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My name is Ernan Gonzalez, and my journey in modeling began when I was just 12 years old. What started as a passion quickly grew into a career that has allowed me to represent my community and compete in pageants across Texas and beyond. Through years of dedication, hard work, and personal growth, I have become one of the top male models in Southwest Texas.
Along the way, I have been honored to earn several titles, including Mr. Eagle Pass Ambassador 2020–2021, Mr. International Teen 2022, Teen Mr. Western King 2023, Mr. 4th of July 2023 and 2024, and Fiestas Patrias Ambassador 2024. Each experience has helped me build confidence, strengthen my leadership skills, and use my platform to inspire others.
Today, I am proud to serve as Mr. Peace USA 2026. Looking back, every competition, challenge, and opportunity has shaped me into the person I am today. My goal is to continue growing in the modeling and pageant industry while representing my community with pride, promoting positivity, and encouraging young people to pursue their dreams with confidence and determination.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely has not been a smooth road. One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced has been dealing with criticism and stereotypes for being one of the only males involved in the pageant industry in my hometown. There were times when people questioned my passion or didn’t understand why I chose this path, but instead of letting that discourage me, I used it as motivation to keep pushing forward and prove that you should never let others define your dreams.
At the same time, I’ve balanced my modeling and pageant career with running my own business, A&E’s Creations, which has been operating successfully for the past six years. What started as a small business creating sweet treats—such as candy apples, cupcakes, and chocolate-covered strawberries—has grown into a full-service event decorating and planning business specializing in balloon décor and event design. Today, A&E’s Creations has expanded into a bi-national business, proudly serving both Eagle Pass, Texas, and Piedras Negras, Coahuila, Mexico. Managing both careers has required dedication, hard work, and perseverance, but every challenge has helped me grow personally and professionally.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a model, pageant titleholder, and entrepreneur who is passionate about using my platform to inspire others to embrace who they are and pursue their dreams with confidence. I specialize in modeling and pageantry, but for me, it’s always been about more than winning titles—it’s about creating opportunities and making a positive impact in my community.
I first got involved in modeling and pageants because I wanted to show others that you can be yourself and follow your passions, no matter what others may think. At the time, there were no male pageant divisions in my hometown, but I was determined to change that. After about a year of advocating for more opportunities, male categories were introduced, and today there are more than seven young men actively participating in pageants in my community.
What I am most proud of isn’t the crowns or titles I’ve earned—it’s the impact I’ve been able to make. Throughout my journey, I’ve had the privilege of watching young people gain confidence, step outside their comfort zones, and embrace who they truly are. Seeing others feel empowered to chase their goals because they saw someone break barriers is the greatest reward.
What sets me apart is my commitment to creating change rather than simply participating in it. I didn’t just pursue my own dream; I helped open doors for others to pursue theirs. Whether through modeling, pageantry, or serving as a role model, my mission is to inspire confidence, encourage authenticity, and remind people that one person can make a lasting difference in their community.
We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
I’ve always believed that growth begins where your comfort zone ends. To me, taking risks isn’t about being fearless—it’s about believing in yourself enough to pursue your goals, even when the outcome is uncertain.
One of the biggest risks I took was becoming involved in pageantry at a time when there were no male divisions in my hometown. I knew I would face criticism, and I did. As one of the only male pageant contestants in my community, many people questioned my decision and didn’t understand why I wanted to compete. Instead of letting that discourage me, I chose to keep going because I believed that if I could open one door, it would create opportunities for others. After about a year, male categories were introduced, and today there are more than seven young men participating in pageants in my town. Seeing that change has made every challenge worthwhile.
Another major risk was starting my own business at a young age. What began six years ago as a small business making candy apples, cupcakes, and chocolate-covered strawberries has grown into A&E’s Creations, a bi-national event business serving both Eagle Pass, Texas, and Piedras Negras, Coahuila, Mexico. Today, we specialize in balloon décor, event planning, and catering items like Tostitos Locos, elotes preparados, nachos, and other event favorites. Building a business while balancing school, modeling, pageantry, and volleyball required a great deal of commitment and perseverance, but it taught me that success comes from taking chances and putting in the work.
I also wouldn’t be where I am today without the people who believed in me. Miss Anita Ramos Ramirez, director of the Miss Eagle Pass Maverick County Scholarship Pageant, gave me my first opportunity in pageantry and has supported my growth over the past five years. My business partner, Alan Cuenca, has played an essential role in helping A&E’s Creations grow through his dedication and support. My mother has been my biggest supporter in volleyball, coaching me for years and constantly encouraging me to become a better athlete and person.
Looking back, every title I’ve earned—including my current title of Mr. Peace USA 2026—is the result of taking chances that others may have avoided. Those experiences have shown me that the greatest risk is allowing fear or the opinions of others to keep you from pursuing your dreams. When you believe in yourself, stay committed, and surround yourself with people who support your vision, even the biggest risks can become your greatest achievements.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: alejandro._.nano
