We’ve always tried to ask the questions that matter but that are too awkward for people to ask their friends, family and coworkers without seeming dramatic. One of those questions is about mission and purpose – when’s the last time you asked a friend what their mission was? Too often we don’t talk about our own missions and don’t ask those close to us about theirs with the result being that our missions remain secret. Are you just a doctor or are you a doctor who wants to be there for patients in the way you wished your father’s doctor had been? People have incredible and meaningful missions, and we hope our conversations asking folks about their mission can inspire more such conversations in your life.

Chyna Russell

At Dollhouse Cosmetics, our mission is to create a safe, empowering space for women of color in the beauty industry—an industry we dominate but often find lacking when it comes to inclusive shade ranges. We believe every woman of color deserves to feel seen, valued, and celebrated. That’s why we offer an expansive range of shades, from the lightest to the deepest tones, ensuring that no one is left out. At Dollhouse, we hold no boundaries and proudly offer a place where women of all shades can feel beautiful and confident. We are dedicated not only to helping women look and feel their best, but also to providing opportunities for growth and representation in an industry that needs it. Read more>>

Lafaya Mitchell

My mission is to give tangible and concrete strategies to others worldwide who suffer from the effects of “Red Alert Brain.” I want those easily triggered into red alert brain mode to know that there is nothing “wrong” with them and that there are ways to keep themselves from giving in to “animal brain” instincts (baser emotions devoid of logic) during tough moments. I have helped many clients with moderate to severe social/emotional/behavioral issues learn to regulate through “The Lafaya Way” 4-Step approach. Read more>>

Lorena Jaimes

The mission behind Generous Intentions is deeply personal to me and rooted in my values of empathy, compassion, and intentional living. I’ve always felt a strong pull to help those who are often overlooked—whether it’s people in marginalized communities, animals in need, or the planet we all share. I believe that every choice we make has a ripple effect, and I wanted to create a business that allows people to make choices that align with their values and create positive change. Read more>>

Kristina Richie

My mission, as an Infant Swimming Resource (ISR) instructor, is “Not One More Child Drowns.” When I became a parent, I was completely unaware that drowning is the number one cause of death for children 4 years and younger, and the second leading cause of death for children ages 5-14. Of course parents generally understand that if a child can’t swim they could drown, but the prevalence and shocking rate at which this occurs was never stressed in the information I was exposed to as a new parent – for example, the way that carseat safety or avoiding choking hazards was. It wasn’t until we enrolled my first child into ISR swim lessons that I learned that drowning was in fact the biggest risk to my child’s life. Read more>>

Gary Cassel

We want to inspire adults and students of all ages – this includes preteens, teens, young adults and a wide age range of adults too. We want these people to read books and become better writers.

Through our interactive online free reading and writing program, LitPick’s mission is to inspire people to read and write. We also connect authors and publishers with readers. LitPick’s online presence gives authors and publishers an opportunity to globally promote their books to readers and to influencers such as bookstores, bloggers, parents, librarians, and teachers. Read more>>

Gracie Cedres

G.R.A.C.E. Inc. is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization dedicated to bridging the gaps in economic disparities, advancing health equity, and providing equitable resources to individuals and families in low-income, poverty-stricken communities. We provide inclusive programs that support the holistic growth of youth, adults, and seniors through Sports, Wellness, Arts, and Technology. We also host events such as the Annual Back-to-School Block Party, providing supplies to hundreds of families, and the Holiday Coat and Toy Drive, serving children and supporting expectant mothers. We also offer free resources, workshops, and recreational trips for individuals and families. Although much of our work is in Harlem, NY, we have also serve Georgia, Grenada, and the Bronx with more communities to come. Read more>>

Terri T. Williamson

Hey, I’m Terri T. Williamson. I am a certified home-based travel agent with EVO Travel, a subsidiary of Archer Travel Group. My mission is to welcome 1st time cruisers to the cruising lifestyle. I attended Fayetteville State University online to complete a Bachelor’s degree I had started many years prior. I want to set an example for my 2 college-aged daughters that it’s never too late to pursue a dream. I was temping at Duke University as a staff assistant and was recruited through the FSU career website for this opportunity. I completed my degree in December 2022. I was not kept on as a temp, so this has become my primary source of income. Read more>>

Sharon Semien

Sharon also ensured that any sitters or caregivers who entered their home were fully educated on the plan of care. She emphasized that caregiving was not just about tasks but about building trust, providing respect, and honoring the person being cared for. Her mother’s care was a partnership between compassion and advocacy, and Sharon’s goal was always to make her feel safe, valued, and cherished. Read more>>