Leche Magazine by Francisco Ochoa
Editors note: It is now 2025, we are working on our sixth volume of Leche Magazine, and the writing has IMPROVED. Enjoy!
If you’re reading this, that means that we’re four volumes in of Leche Magazine. First, you may ask yourself, what is Leche Magazine? Why the name Leche? Why a Magazine? Don’t worry. Keep reading, and you’ll find out!
In 2020, Francisco Ochoa was given an idea by a great friend, Rafa Gold (Rafa Gold shot all photography for Volumes 1-3 of Leche Magazine), to start his own magazine. The “why” was clear to him. A magazine could encapsulate all the industries that piqued Francisco’s interest, “maybe people will like what I like too,” he thought. But the “how” wasn’t as straightforward, though. After a lot of research and mood boarding, the foundation was built.
“Now, what should this magazine be called?” Many generic ideas came to mind, but after digging through his past, he eventually jumped at the thought of calling it Leche Magazine. Leche brings questions and confusion. He wanted it to do that. When people become confused, they begin to ask questions until they understand.
The next step on his list was to create a logo for Leche Magazine. “This was a special time for me. I’ve always seen brands have ownership over their logos, which I’ve wanted to achieve for a long time. It was an opportunity I would not let slip away.” Francisco was inspired by a Frank Ocean poster on his wall that read, “Do you remember the first time?” The lettering and messaging gave him a moment of creation. “I drew about six logos with a pen, and the one you all see today is the one I got hooked onto.”
We reached out to Creative Director Lehrer Antwi and his team to see what they could tell us about their upcoming projects for the FW/23 season.
Y’Ours Production Manager, Ruben Pagán, shared, “Fall 23? More like Rise 23 … I’M SO HYPED FOR THE EXPERIMENTATION COMING IN THIS SEASON’S PROJECTS … let’s just say we’re cooking up more than just burgers.”
In the coming months, Leche Magazine hosted its first event. All 50 magazines sold out. “This moment was surreal for me. I never expected to be living something like this,” said Francisco.
Fast forward to 2023, each volume of Leche Mag has improved drastically, generating over 400 magazine sales across the Northern Virginia area.
“What comes after the 4th volume?” A question that Francisco has been constantly asking himself.
“Well, you’re reading it—this SMS newsletter. I want you to read about upcoming creatives that deserve to stand at the podium. People work hard to achieve their dreams, and Leche Magazine wants to catalyze their growth. They’ve earned this. We want you all to dive into their worlds. Leche Magazine is the social space for creatives and will remain for years to come.”