Samantha "Cake" Robles
Born and raised in New York, Samantha "Cake" Robles is not just an artist; she's an unsung hero, illuminating her community with creativity and compassion. As a talented tattoo artist, Samantha's journey intertwines artistry with an unwavering commitment to community service, a path inspired by her wife's passion for volunteering.
Their collaborative efforts in community projects are remarkable. They have been integral to initiatives like the Timberland +OLB Chat Session for International Women’s Month and the GirlsOnly NY + OLB Community Fridge. Moreover, their fundraising efforts, including the Party for the People for Puerto Rico, stand as a testament to their dedication. Notably, their collaboration with brands like Packer and Nike, where profits were directed to support the Siena House Women’s Shelter, underscores their resolve to make a meaningful difference.
For Samantha, community service is about organic giving, focusing on small acts that collectively create a significant impact. This philosophy is vividly embodied in the GirlsOnly initiative, which centers around spreading joy and addressing immediate community needs. Through this approach, Samantha believes in the power of small, focused actions to generate waves of positive change.
The journey, however, is not without its hurdles. One such challenge was ensuring fair access to the community fridge in Coney, requiring occasional oversight to maintain equitable distribution. Despite these challenges, the rewards are immense. The joy and gratitude reflected in the community, particularly the children, are deeply fulfilling for Samantha.
The COVID-19 pandemic posed unique challenges for Samantha, especially considering the close-contact nature of her work as a tattoo artist. Demonstrating resilience, she adapted to the new norm, pausing her work when necessary and implementing stringent safety measures upon resumption. Through these experiences, Samantha has gleaned the profound value of gratitude, a sentiment that deeply resonates with her both professionally and personally.
To follow Samantha "Cake" Robles' artistic journey and her community initiatives, she can be found on Instagram at tattoosbycake. Her work and community projects are also showcased on the official GirlsOnly NY website.
In summing up her journey, the word "Gratitude" emerges not just as a word, but as the very essence of Samantha's life story - a narrative that beautifully melds artistry with a commitment to service, illuminating the lives of those around her in New York City.
