We’ve highlighted responses from some of the brightest and most talented artists, creatives, and entrepreneurs in the community below.

Rich Waryan

That’s a very good question. Who is my hero? In terms of people who have influenced my journey, I’d say it would be Joey DeFrancesco. Why that is, is because he was a child prodigy on the Hammond Organ and most definitely revived interest in the instrument through his contributions and talent in American Jazz music. Read more>>

Rob Millard-Mendez

My hero is H.C. Westermann, an artist from Chicago who had an incredible vision and a very successful career. He is one of the reasons I became a sculptor working mainly with wood. Why is he my hero? He never compromised. He remained true to his own style and world-view regardless of what the artworld was doing. Read more>>

Sylvia Baffour

My hero is Dr Maya Angelou. I had the privilege of meeting her about 22 years ago when I was waiting tables at a restaurant in Washington DC called B Smiths. One of the reasons why she’s my hero is because of the way she treats people and that includes those who can do nothing for her. Read more>>

Shuihan Ding

The journey of life brings with it numerous challenges and lessons, and in my case, the guiding star through this journey has been my mother. Her influence, both profound and multifaceted, has shaped not only my professional path but also my personal ethos. Read more>>

TINISHA GRAYSON

I come from a family where we all are good at something and public relations is mine. I would say that the hero behind my success would have to be my brother Virgil and my late brother Terrence. Read more>>

Ndine Drame

My hero is undoubtedly my mother. She may not be famous or celebrated by the world, but to me, she embodies everything I aspire to be. Her wisdom, resilience, and deep connection to nature have profoundly shaped my journey. Read more>>

Linda Syth

My heroes are my parents. My father grew up during The Great Depression and experienced extreme poverty. Being hungry in his youth forged a life-long commitment to providing accessible and affordable food while providing living wage jobs for those he worked with. Read more>>

Chanette Thompson

My Grandmother was and is my hero! I was raised by her until I was 5 years old. And as an adult I was very close with her! My grandmother was very stern, but also very loving. She was the matriarch of our family. Read more>>

Jenna Graham

My hero is my daughter. She’s inspired many of my choices over the last 13+ years. She was the inspiration for Cookie Queen. Before her 1st birthday, my daughter was diagnosed with multiple food allergies. Read more>>