Ivana Rodríguez Pareja runs MYKOZ, a Mexican company offering sugar-free Greek yogurt ice cream, created from scratch by her at the age of 19. MYKOZ provides a self-serve model where customers create their own experience with sugar-free Greek yogurt ice cream.
From healthy options to indulgences like Nutella and brownies, MYKOZ is more than an ice cream shop: it’s a concept of wellness, design, flavor, and emotional connection. Every detail—from the ice cream recipe to the architecture of the store—has been carefully crafted to offer a unique experience.
“From the beginning, I knew I didn’t want to just create an ice cream shop, but a concept of wellness and lifestyle,” Ivana emphasizes.
The inspiration to build MYKOZ came from Ivana’s close environment. Growing up in a home where entrepreneurship was a common topic planted a clear vision in her: creating something of her own wasn’t a far-off dream—it was a real possibility.
Conversations with her father, where both successes and failures were discussed openly, shaped her mindset and planted the seed that would become MYKOZ.
“My dad always spoke to me with complete honesty about his achievements—and also about his failures,” Ivana shares.
Ivana took her first step at 19, with no prior experience, but with unwavering determination. Driven by curiosity, a hunger for knowledge, and a desire to create something authentic, she came up with a concept based on adapting an existing product to fit the Mexican market: a healthy, sugar-free ice cream with its own style, easy to personalize.
“MYKOZ was born from the desire to reinvent existing concepts, but with a local twist,” Ivana notes.
The pandemic was a turning point for Ivana. With her university closed, she decided to take action and started working on one of her ideas. That also marked the official birth of MYKOZ: in a time of uncertainty, she chose to create.
“I couldn’t just sit still… I had to do something and give it shape,” Ivana recalls.
Ivana’s story is not just about a successful businesswoman, but about a well-rounded creator. From branding, ice cream production, architectural design, to financial and operational management, Ivana learned everything on the ground—making mistakes, solving problems, and evolving at every step. She has also shared her experience as a speaker, giving honest talks about the real journey of entrepreneurship.
“My talks are mostly based on the reality of starting a business—that part no one really tells you about,” Ivana says.
One of the biggest challenges Ivana has faced is staying true to her vision despite immediate financial expectations. Many entrepreneurs abandon their projects when they don’t see quick results, but Ivana understands that money is a consequence, not the end goal.
“If your main business—which is yourself—isn’t aligned, no project will succeed,” Ivana explains.
For Ivana, mindset is the foundation of any successful business. Mental clarity, emotional balance, and a resilient attitude have been key in facing the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. In her view, a prepared mind turns mistakes into lessons and difficult moments into opportunities for growth.
“The right mindset doesn’t just hold you up—it propels you,” Ivana affirms.
To those wanting to start their own business, Ivana recommends taking action without waiting for the perfect moment. Preparation is important, but launching, learning along the way, and surrounding yourself with experienced people is what truly builds a business. For her, entrepreneurship is an act of courage—not perfection.
“You’ll never have all the answers, things will never be perfect… so go for it. Start,” Ivana encourages.
MYKOZ still has a long road ahead. Ivana envisions her company as a leading brand in the industry, with a model ready to be replicated through franchises. At the same time, she continues learning and deeply enjoying her role as a speaker, where she connects with and helps others through her experiences.
“I see MYKOZ as a leading company in its field, and that’s going to require time, strategy, investment, and dedication,” Ivana comments.
What makes MYKOZ stand out in the market is the freedom it gives customers to enjoy a personalized experience. Additionally, Ivana and her team produce their own flavors, allowing them to control quality and innovation. This approach has created a unique connection with their customers.
Finally, Ivana feels her personal brand is ready to take the next step. She understands the power of social media and the responsibility that comes with it. She’s determined to grow not just as a businesswoman, but also as a public figure who inspires and guides others on their entrepreneurial journeys.
“I’m really excited to take my personal brand to the next level,” Ivana expresses.
Are you ready to turn an idea into a purpose-driven project? Connect with Ivana, the mind behind MYKOZ, and discover how to take your entrepreneurship to the next level. Your moment is now. Make it happen with Ivana!