For Cely Gonzalez, every frozen treat she makes carries a story, a memory, and a message of hope.
“After my 17-year-old brother passed in March I decided to commemorate his name by starting a sweet treats business,” Gonzalez said. “As someone who dealt with severe anxiety and depression, sweets always helped him, so I wanted to share a bit of happiness in every ice cream I make.”
“My brother was the most humble, kind person you’d come across,” Gonzalez said. “Making this business makes me feel closer to him.”
The name “Pingüis” comes from Christian’s childhood love of video games, especially Mario Bros. In the Wii Party version, he often chose the penguin costume, a quirk that inspired his mother to call him “Penguis.” The nickname became the heart of the business.
Gonzalez specializes in bolis, ice cream in a bag, using fresh fruit and traditional recipes to create gourmet Mexican treats. Flavors range from watermelon and cucumber lime to chamoy mango and pecan. The signature “Penguino Boli,” inspired by Christian, is based on the flavor of the popular Mexican snack cake.
“This business gives me a reason to talk about my brother and being able to advocate about mental health,” she said. “I want to inspire others to find hope and be able to put a smile on a face just like I know it would have for Christian. Dealing with childhood trauma is truly an outlet to grow and become someone so much stronger than you think.”
Beyond honoring her brother, Gonzalez sees her business as a platform for mental health awareness. Through TikTok and future plans to donate proceeds to behavioral health centers, she hopes to inspire others facing anxiety, depression, or trauma.
“Life can get hard, but never let that light dim,” she said. “You were put on this earth for a purpose; you just have to find it.”
Orders can be placed through Instagram at @bolis.pinguis or via Facebook under Aracely Gonzalez. Gonzalez hopes to eventually open a storefront, expand her menu, and host mental health advocacy events.
Costs range from $3.50 to four for $12.
View this profile on Instagram
“I want others to know life is sweeter than they might think,” she said. “I want to share a smile in every ice cream I make — just like I know it would have for Christian.”
