A Family Recipe and A Growing Legacy

Sharing Culture Through Every Sweet Treat

For Chely Gonzalez, her business is a tribute to legacy, culture, resilience, and also– a sweet treat! Through La Niña Chamoy Candies, Chely and her mother, Jairy González, bring bold, handcrafted flavor to life using a traditional tamarind-based recipe passed down from Chely’s grandfather, Luis Murillo.

What started just three years ago is rooted in something much deeper. Before he passed, Luis Murillo taught Chely the delicate and intentional craft of making natural chamoy from scratch, guiding her through the process over WhatsApp and video calls. From peeling tamarind to carefully controlling temperatures, she learned firsthand from the person who was both her inspiration and her foundation.

As chamoy grew in popularity—especially paired with gummies and drinks—Chely began experimenting and sharing her creations. Encouraged by her sister, she stepped into the world of pop-ups, starting with local events and eventually expanding to larger festivals like Taste of Randolph. Through each market and workshop, she continued refining both her product and presence as a business owner alongside her mother, building La Niña Chamoy Candies into a family-driven business rooted in culture and connection.

Looking to grow and find support, Chely joined Sunshine Enterprises, starting with the Spanish-language cohort. What she found went beyond business education, blossoming into a full-blown community. Through multiple programs, including a cohort at Navy Pier, she gained opportunities to expand her reach, including successfully vending at one of Chicago’s most iconic destinations. She also found something equally important: a network of coaches and peers who supported her not just professionally, but personally.

Today, with a small but growing team, Chely and Jairy continue to build La Niña Chamoy Candies with intention. Luis Murillo’s image is proudly displayed on their branding, honoring the recipe’s roots and the story behind every product. Looking ahead, their focus remains clear: to share their culture, uplift their story, and remind others that even in the face of challenges, it’s possible to build something meaningful.

Follow La Niña Chamoy Candies:
Website: www.laninachamoy.com
Facebook: La Niña Chamoy Candies
Instagram: @laninachamoycandiesllc