DESIGNER, FOUNDER & CEO OF Certified CROWN

NANDO MONDRAGON

A man with a trimmed beard and short hair, wearing earrings and a microphone headset, is smiling and dressed in a gold and black patterned jacket and a black shirt, standing in front of a dark backdrop with text.

The Visionary: Redefining the Tattoo Industry

Founder & CEO

NANDO MONDRAGON

The Undefeated Underdog

Nando Mondragon’s journey from a troubled youth to a visionary leader in the Tattoo community is a testament to resilience and transformation.

By the age of 18, Nando had already faced numerous challenges, including time in prison. However, he turned his life around, and today he proudly wears the titles of Tattoo Entrepreneur, Tattoo Artist, Real Estate Investor, Fashion Designer, Music Mogul, Community Activist, and the Undefeated Underdog. Inspiring others to overcome self limiting beliefs.

From Rough Beginnings to Revolutionary Leader

Nando's passion for graffiti led him into the world of street art, where he quickly gained notoriety. Despite his initial success, his involvement with a well-known Denver crew and subsequent criminal activities culminated in a prison sentence for attempted murder. During his time in prison, Nando resolved to change his life. He dedicated himself to self-improvement and business education, laying the groundwork for the discipline and focus needed for his future success.

The Rise of Certified Tattoo Studios

After his release, Nando launched Certified Customs, initially a hip-hop fashion store that evolved into Certified Tattoo Studios.

His relentless work ethic and innovative approach to business have established Certified as a leading name in the Tattoo world, with multiple locations across Colorado. Certified Tattoo Studios empowers Tattoo Artists of all levels to focus on their craft while handling the marketing and administrative aspects, setting a new industry standard.

Championing Community and Inclusivity

Nando's commitment to community is a cornerstone of his success. He started with self organized a turkey drives for families in need and quickly expanded his efforts to include toy drives, youth mentoring, and support for at-risk individuals through programs like the GRASP program. Nando believes in the power of giving back and uses his success to uplift others, demonstrating that true success is measured by the positive impact on one's community. “The Giveback” is his vehicle for improving the community and helping local families.

Vision for the Future: An Inclusive Tattoo Utopia

Nando's vision for the Tattoo industry is rooted in active inclusivity and innovation. He advocates for breaking down barriers like gatekeeping, sexism, and racism within the industry. Nando envisions a Tattoo utopia where Anyone With Skin Is Welcome to express themselves through body art and piercing. His leadership aims to create a more inclusive and supportive community for artists, collectors, enthusiasts and clients.

GET IN TOUCH

Join the Certified Tattoo Education Movement

Nando continues to inspire and mentor the next generation of Tattoo artists and entrepreneurs.

Whether through his mentorship coaching program, Tattoo Empire Builders program, speaking engagements, community events, or his business ventures, Nando’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, hard work, and the belief that no one is ever too far gone to turn their life around and go way up!

LEARN MORE ABOUT CERTIFIED TATTOO ACADEMY

Books & Ink:

Community Fundraiser with the Denver Public Library

We were proud to partner with the Denver Public Library for our Books & Ink fundraiser. Inspired by Nando Mondragon's love for reading and his childhood spent at the Denver Public Library, this event featured literary-themed tattoos.

All proceeds were donated to the DPL at the Corky Gonzales Branch, helping to support and give back to the community that played a pivotal role in Nando's life. Celebrating literature and art while making a positive impact!

The Certified Way!

The Denver Channel 7

READ MORE

9news Denver

READ MORE

Honoring Nando Mondragon:

MBK25 Award

In 2019, Nando Mondragon was honored as an MBK25 recipient by Obama's My Brother's Keeper Denver initiative. This prestigious award, presented by Denver Mayor Michael B. Hancock, recognized Nando’s outstanding community activism.

As one of 25 honorees, Nando’s dedication to uplifting and empowering his community was celebrated, highlighting his significant impact and commitment to positive change in the minority community through youth mentoring.

Logo for 'My Brother's Keeper Denver' featuring three stylized human figures in purple and blue above the text.
READ MORE

PUBLIC SPEAKING

A man with tattoos, earrings, and a beard, wearing a maroon suit jacket and light-colored shirt, speaking into a microphone at an event with black, gold, and white balloons in the background.
YOUTUBE CHANNEL

ARTIST MENTOR

A man with tattoos and earrings getting a tattoo on his thigh by a tattoo artist wearing a printed shirt and gloves, while two other people watch in a tattoo parlor.
TATTOO ACADEMY

COMMUNITY PARTNER

Two men standing side by side, one holding a signed football and a microphone, at an event with a banner in the background.
COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS
A man with tattoos, wearing a black jacket and ripped jeans, is getting a tattoo on his arm at a tattoo parlor. A tattoo artist is holding a tattoo machine and focusing on his work.
A man with tattoos on his arm is sitting next to a patient in a hospital bed. The patient has light hair, tattoos on his arm, and is talking to the man. There is a window in the background, and medical equipment on the bedside table.
Man walking on stage during a performance at an indoor event, wearing a black and gold patterned suit, with an audience seated around tables in the background.
A young man with long braided hair and a beard is sitting in a tattoo chair, sticking out his tongue and holding a can of soda. He is showing his tattooed arm, which features a colorful skull with a blue star on the forehead. The background includes tattoo artwork on the wall, tattooing supplies, and a framed sign that reads 'Expert Tattoo Artist Devon California'.
Tattoo artist at a booth with display of tattoo designs and supplies, with two customers sitting across from him, at a tattoo convention.

Besties Ice Cream:

Sweet Treats for the Community

Nando Mondragon and his best friend Erin Gallegos co-own Besties Ice Cream, a venture dedicated to giving back.

They regularly offer free scoops in underserved areas of the city, bringing joy and building community bonds. Their commitment to making a positive impact is a testament to Nando’s dedication to uplifting the community.

CHECK OUT BESTIES ICE CREAM

WHAT CAN WE DO TOGETHER?

  • I’m a nonprofit or school looking to make an impact on my youth.

    Let’s chat.

  • I’m a podcast or media outlet and would like to showcase your story.

    Let's work.

  • I’m a big brand looking for a partner to help shatter tattoo stereotypes.

    Let’s get on a call.

  • I’m a conference or event looking for a speaker.

    Reach out, we will be in touch.

INTERESTED IN WORKING WITH NANDO ON SOMETHING?

REACH OUT!

GET IN TOUCH

TOP FEATURED TOPICS

  • Anti-bullying Anti-Gatekeeper

  • Creating self-worth/self-love

  • Better decision making

  • Starting a business from $0

  • Checking your ego at the door

  • Thinking bigger

  • Active Inclusivity 

  • Empathy is key 

  • Building a winners mindset

  • Felon to Tattoo business mogul

  • Changing the street mindset

  • Importance of Goal setting

FOLLOW OUR FOUNDER AND CEO ON INSTAGRAM

@CERTIFIED_NANDO