Wiley Cortez’s story begins in the heart of Riverside, California, a place east of Los Angeles known for its vibrant culture but also shadowed by hardship. Growing up, Wiley was no stranger to the harsh realities of life. His neighborhood was a maze of violence, gangs, and a pervasive gun culture that shaped the lives of so many around him. Yet, even as these forces loomed large, what stood out to Wiley most was the struggle his family faced to make ends meet. He saw the weight on their shoulders, the sacrifices they made, and the dreams that often seemed just out of reach.

 

As a young boy, Wiley often wrestled with questions about his future. He didn’t want to be defined by his surroundings or the expectations others placed on him. Watching his family fight to provide, he realized he had to make a choice: either accept the life he was born into or take a bold step toward something greater. It was in this pivotal moment that the idea of "GRD ZRO" (Ground Zero) was born in his mind—a symbolic starting point for the life he was determined to build.

 

But starting from zero wasn’t easy. Every day brought new challenges, each one testing his resolve. Violence wasn’t just a distant reality; it was something he had to navigate daily. Opportunities were scarce, and the path forward often felt unclear. Yet, amidst the chaos, Wiley found solace in small moments of self-reflection. He began to see that while he couldn’t control the circumstances he was born into, he could control how he responded to them.

 

Wiley devoted himself to self-improvement, even when it felt like the world around him was crumbling. He read voraciously, studied relentlessly, and sought out wisdom from unlikely places. He didn’t just want to survive—he wanted to thrive. His struggles became the fuel for his growth, and every hardship he endured became another brick in the foundation he was building for his future.

 

Over time, his vision began to take shape. Through sheer determination and grit, Wiley started to turn his dreams into reality. Small victories led to bigger opportunities, and what once seemed impossible started to feel within reach. His first ventures into business were born from his resilience and resourcefulness, and with every step forward, he learned valuable lessons about leadership, perseverance, and purpose.

 

As his businesses grew, so did his sense of responsibility—not just to himself but to those who shared a similar journey. Wiley never forgot where he came from, and he carried the lessons of his past with him like a compass. His story became a beacon of hope for others, proof that even in the face of overwhelming adversity, success is possible.

 

Today, Wiley’s life is a testament to the power of transformation. He has turned pain into purpose, struggle into strength, and challenges into opportunities. His journey from Riverside to professional success is more than just a personal triumph; it’s a reminder that no matter where you start, with humility, hard work, and an unwavering belief in the possibility of change, you can rise above any circumstance.

 

Wiley often reflects on his beginnings and the path he chose. Ground Zero wasn’t just a starting point—it was a declaration, a promise to himself that no matter how difficult the road, he would keep moving forward. His story isn’t just about success; it’s about resilience, growth, and the unshakable belief that better days are always ahead for those willing to fight for them.