How Ambitious Young Adults Are Redefining Success

—Medium magazine

In May 2025, Authority Magazine featured an insightful interview with Pietro Estrada, co-founder of Piegatto, a Guatemalan design studio renowned for its sculptural, nature-inspired furniture. Estrada, an architect with an MBA, shared his perspectives on how ambitious young adults are redefining success in the modern world.

Estrada emphasized that success, for him, is about making a meaningful impact without compromising integrity. He highlighted the importance of balance, stating that true productivity stems from a harmonious life, including sleep, nature, art, exercise, and human connection, rather than long work hours.

He discussed how Piegatto integrates social responsibility and sustainability into its operations. All materials are sourced from responsible forests, and the company employs over 65 artisans in its factory. Additionally, Piegatto is exploring ways to repurpose wood dust and offcuts into sustainable materials.

Estrada also shared personal experiences that shaped his leadership approach. He mentioned the challenges of transitioning from designers to manufacturers and exporters, which required learning about logistics, compliance, and team inspiration. He emphasized the significance of mentorship and community in shaping his leadership style.

Reflecting on his generation's view of success, Estrada noted a shift towards purpose-driven work, mental health awareness, and sustainability. He identified five ways ambitious young adults are redefining success: prioritizing purpose over prestige, blending work and passion, collaborative leadership, measuring success by sustainability, and rejecting burnout culture.