Throughout my life, I often felt lost, confused, and isolated. It was during these challenging times that my passion for building Mecha models became my anchor, keeping me grounded and present. What began as a hobby quickly evolved into something much deeper: a way to heal, to connect, and to rediscover purpose.

This love for Mecha models sparked a vision-one that would become Astray.

​

Astray is more than just an online shop or a creative space. It’s a sanctuary, a place where passion, purpose, and community come together. What started as a small idea to unite Mecha enthusiasts has grown into something truly unique: a hybrid space that celebrates Gundams, reptiles, and coffee- three worlds that have shaped who I am and continue to inspire those around me.

​

Just like the intricate details of a Gundam model, each part of Astray serves a purpose. The Mecha world represents creativity, resilience, and imagination- the power to build something beautiful from chaos. Reptiles, on the other hand, taught me patience, empathy, and care. My fascination with their calm strength and misunderstood nature led me to start a nonprofit reptile rescue and adoption center, where we provide safe homes, rehabilitation, and education for these incredible creatures.

​

Visitors can explore the rescue through our website or the link in our Instagram bio, where they can surrender reptiles in need, adopt, or support our mission. To me, the connection between Gundams and reptiles isn’t random, it’s symbolic. Both represent adaptability and evolution. Just as we build and customize our Mecha, we also grow and evolve through compassion and creativity. That same spirit carries into our love for coffee, a symbol of comfort and connection that brings people together and keeps conversations flowing.

​

At its heart, Astray is a place for everyone- for Mecha builders, reptile lovers, and coffee drinkers alike. It’s where curiosity meets creativity, where community takes root, and where no one feels out of place. The name Astray itself holds deep meaning. Inspired by a Mecha model and by my own life’s path, it reflects the feeling of wandering without direction, only to find one’s way through passion, purpose, and connection.

​

This is the soul of Astray: a home for builders and dreamers, for rescuers and creators, for anyone who’s ever felt a little astray- and found beauty in the journey back.

​

— Damian Talavera, Founder of Astray