Meet Luis Couto Jr | Founder – Black Cloud Co, LLC

We had the good fortune of connecting with Luis Couto Jr and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Luis, career-wise, where do you want to be in the end?
The good thing about my end goal is that it can lead to several outcomes. As a community, Black Cloud Co encompasses all of us. All of the individuals who are interested in too many things and can’t pick just one hobby; the people that want to discuss the lack of access in the education system and then build a racecar; and those who just simply do not fit into society’s pre-existing boxes. I can say that my end goal is to create worldwide access to a community where all people can feel like themselves! Through hosting ongoing community-based events and providing access/resources to individuals and communities in need, my hopes are great in growing this into something greater. That being said, as long as there are cars, bikes, art, community, food and the ability to help underrepresented communities and youth, I will be more than happy!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Growing up, I’ve always had several hobbies and could never choose just one to focus on. As I went through high school and college, I found myself more focused towards working on cars and in various art mediums. Without a clear direction of what was to come next, I had earned my BA; Majoring in Art with an Education Minor. Even though I didn’t know what the next step was, at least I had a plan to move to LA with a couple friends after the Summer of 2013. Little did I know that one of those close friends would have a life altering injury the weekend after graduation. At that time, it sort of hit a reset button for all of us. I ended up moving home after college, where I started substitute teaching; dabbling in art, music and automotive work in my down time. As time passed, I grew a strong passion in advocating for the students I worked with; realizing that they were not receiving the proper funding, resources and opportunities other students within the same school were receiving. I’ve always had a hard time holding my tongue, but I had finally found the right battle to fight. With tremendous support from amazing classroom staff, we were able to turn the program around and provide ongoing financial and college-track resources for this population of students. At this point in time, my passions for art and motorsports started to become hobbies and spare time activities. I continued on to earn my Masters in Teaching in 2019; changing careers to work in Higher Education after 5 years of teaching High School SpED. Overall, I couldn’t complain too much. Right?

During this time, my younger sister was diagnosed with Kidney Disease. What we all thought would be treatable, turned into our worst nightmare. After a several year battle with what we later found out to be complications from Lupus; she left this Earth in 2021, at the young age of 22. Despite various requirements of her; medically, academically, physically and mentally. She pushed forward through these barriers on a daily basis; earning her BA from University and continuing with her artwork and self-established clothing brand; all with a huge smile on her face. She was a Super Woman. It’s at the least to say that this has left a hole in our hearts that cannot be closed, and is something that I will carry for the rest of my life. But one thing that my sister did show me, was that no matter what, she kept pushing towards her goals; showing a level of maturity, drive and passion that I could only strive to recreate. Being honest, It was difficult to find the motivation and that same passion I’ve carried all my life. But through time, family and friends, I finally started to find that passion again. This time it grew stronger, with a clearer sense of direction and meaning. The funny thing is, I always knew that I wanted to create something of my own, but could never figure out exactly what. And now it was finally clear.

I established Black Cloud Co at the end of 2021, as I continued to refine the company until its official release in May of 2023. I could go on and on about how I got to where I am today, but there’s no part of my story that I don’t owe some credit to; because every aspect of our lives makes us who we are. We’re just incharge of taking those experiences and molding them into what we want them to be. I’m proud of every aspect of this company and the base that it stands on; I couldn’t be more excited to see how it grows and develops into something that others can be proud to be a part of.

“Black Cloud Co strives to create inclusive spaces through Media, Automotive and Street Culture (clothing). We hold foundation in the field of education, while simultaneously rooted in automotive work and various art mediums; bringing a well-rounded view and knowledge of needed space. Our goal is to create accessibility/exposure for underrepresented youth/communities and all those who have yet to find a home base.”

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
From being born and raised in the Bay Area, to spending about 15% of my time in Los Angeles, and now living in the Sacramento area; there are TONS of great places to eat, drink and hangout. Because I’m in each place so much, why not show some love to all three!

Depending on who you talk to, you’ll receive suggestion after suggestion about where to go and what to do in the Bay. Since there’s a little bit of something for everyone, it won’t take too long to find your way. But, there are a few places that need to be on my list when showing friends around. Foodwise, breakfast is a must; the Country Way in Fremont is my go to for great tasting food and huge portions. For lunch we’re heading to Los Carnalitos Restaurant in Hayward, or if we’re riding motorcycles through the mountains; definitely stopping by Alice’s Restaurant in Woodside.

As for LA; what’s there not to do while in town? Hitting up Angeles Crest or Mulholland Highway for some twisty mountain road cruising is a must. After that, the Santa Monica Pier and 3rd Street Promenade are great places to relax or get into some more fun. If you’re into Micheladas, La Chuperia in Lincoln Heights is the place to go, and the Mariscos Linda Truck in East LA will send us home with smiles on our face from ear to ear!!

Foodwise, Sacramento has two places that immediately come to mind. Urban Roots and Fixins Soul Kitchen. No words needed, just go and try ‘em out for yourself when you’re in town! While in the area, you can’t miss out on all of the great outdoor spots! Auburn, Oroville, Eldorado and Tahoe National Forest have great hiking trails and campsites to keep you busy all year round. And if you’re into snowboarding, best believe we’re hopping over to Northstar in Lake Tahoe for some Winter fun.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Without a doubt, I would not be where I am today without the support of my family and friends! I’m fortunate enough to have been raised by parents that did everything in their power to provide opportunities for myself and my siblings. Between them, working several jobs and odd hours to provide us with greater opportunities as adults. My family and friends have always been there to keep pushing me towards my goals, provide constructive feedback, help me when things get difficult and are that ultimate driving force that’s gotten me to where I am today. I want to give a special shoutout to my Parents: Sharon and Luis Sr., my Siblings: Nia and Joey, my Fiancé: Gizella, my grandparents: Oralee and Charles, and to all of my close friends, family, educational colleagues and past students that have helped shape me and my professional/personal direction.

Website: https://www.blackcloudrml.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackcloudco/

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/black-cloud-co-llc-29303827b

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@BlackCloudCoRML

Image Credits
Black Cloud Co – Media