
Author: Noor Zouitina
We’re used to seeing people move abroad for love. But when that love isn’t for a romantic relationship — and instead for following our dreams — it’s often a step we take alone, with fear of uncertainty and hope for what’s to come.
Those of us who have left our cities, countries, or continents — leaving behind our entire world and loved ones to start building a new life — know all too well the moments before taking that flight and saying goodbye. It takes every inch of courage, yet it’s worth every ounce of fear.

Like any form of shock therapy, there’s no learning more powerful than this. It makes you grow, adapt, and understand your place in life like never before.
In a world where comfort often outweighs courage, Gemma Ferri chose the unknown. The Spanish-born stylist left behind a flourishing career, familiar streets, and loved ones to pursue a dream that whispered louder than fear. Now based in Los Angeles, Gemma is not just building a name for herself — she’s redefining what it means to start over with heart and intention.
In this conversation with Nisaā, she opens up about the solitude that comes with following your path, the strength that grows from self-belief, and the quiet revolution that happens when you listen to your creative calling abroad.

How did you decide to move abroad?
I remember a specific moment on the Madrid metro after work when I realized I couldn’t keep living the same routine. I felt stuck and restless. I wanted to stay in fashion but also find more peace. The decision-making process felt endless — I knew I wanted to leave, but I had to figure out where to go.
Why did you choose LA? What is so special about that city for you?
One day at work, a colleague mentioned her time living in Los Angeles. I began to feel curious about the city, and suddenly I started meeting many people in Madrid who had worked or lived in Los Angeles. Somehow, this made me begin to seriously consider moving there.

What has motivated you the most to continue your adventure?
The people I’ve met here and the freedom I feel. On days my days off, I recharge by going to surf or spending time in nature. That contrast between hustle and calm has helped me fall in love with my craft again. Every challenge feels like a new chapter I get to write.
What’s it like to restart a career you had already built, but in a foreign country?
It’s humbling. You have to leave your ego at the door. Be open to learning, to starting over, to saying “yes” even when the job feels smaller than what you’re used to. Every person, every project teaches you something.
Was there a specific moment when you realized you had made the right decision?
There wasn’t one specific day, but rather moments—like when I realize I can socialize and work across many different languages and cultures. That’s when I truly feel, “This was the right decision, no matter how much it hurt at the time.”
How has this move shaped your identity—not just as a stylist, but as a woman?
As women and artists, we have often been repressed, and our voices frequently doubted. That’s why I feel that making a bold move guided by your intuition brings a sense of peace — that feeling of “I was right” — which boosts your confidence in your decisions and helps you learn to trust yourself more.

Do you think people are afraid of change? Why do you think that is?
Feeling fear of change is actually a good thing—the problem arises when you let that fear block you and focus only on the negative. You have to fight hard for what you want, and perhaps it’s the fear of that constant struggle that holds people back.
If you could share five things you’ve learned from your journey, what would they be?
- Speak your dreams out loud and value the power of being truly heard.
- Let go of your ego.
- Help others and allow others to help you.
- Learn to be your own best friend and fall in love with your solitude—it’s where peace grows.
- Nothing is impossible if your “why” is strong. Love makes you brave.
