Gilbert was born in San Antonio, Texas to an alcoholic mother and a drug-addicted father, but God had a plan. Through a journey of hope and miracles God made a way. He graduated from South San West Campus. He then attended International Bible College where he graduated in 1996 and completed his Master’s in Theology. Gilbert has been in ministry since the age of fourteen and became a Youth Pastor at the age of eighteen. Gilbert always had a passion to impact young people with the life changing gospel of Jesus. His passion for Christ has opened doors for him to speak at conferences all over the United States, Central America and Europe. Gilbert is married to Hilda Hernandez his wife of 14 years and serves as the CEO of SAYFC. Through his leadership SAYFC has grown steady over the last 10 years to become a model for YFC ministry in large cities. Gilbert also serves on the National Youth for Christ board.