Stories are incredibly powerful – their ability to teach, inspire, and create understanding is why we are so in love with storytelling. Most stories have a defining moment and so we’ve asked some of the most talented, insightful folks across a broad range of industries and markets to tell us about a defining moment in their story.
ANGELO PEREZ
Defining moments in life, A tribute to my mom The Unfair Advantage: How to Climb When You Can’t Walk Most people slowdown in their fifties. They start talking about retirement plans, comfortable shoes, and taking it easy. Me? I am 58 years old, and I am just speeding up. Read More>>
JOY AnkhAra
A drunk driver changed the trajectory of my career at 24 I went from living the High life, top of my game, to being told I’d be dead or brain dead by 30. My biggest challenge was whenever I became stressed, the soft tissue would swell at the back of my neck, preventing blood from going to my forebrain. Read More>>
Jae Hunter
Most definitely. About two years ago, I reached a pivotal point where I knew it was time to scale and fully step into the vision I had for my brand. I secured what I believed was the perfect location to bring that dream to life. Read More>>
Vince Pascua
In October of 2025, I was nominated for the 2025 ILIA Awards (Inclusive Leadership in Action). Each year, RISE seeks nominations from the community of individuals and organizations that are doing the work to make a real difference in the San Diego region. ILIA honorees are selected from these nominations and then announced and celebrated in October at the RISE ILIA Awards event. Read More>>
Lynn Schuster
One of the defining realizations in my career wasn’t a single dramatic moment, but rather a gradual shift in how I viewed my role in the beauty industry. For many years, I worked primarily as a service provider—helping clients feel beautiful and confident through eyelash and brow services. That work is still something I deeply love. Read More>>
Shindreia “DRE” Chase
In 2023 I found myself lost and unsure if I could find stability and fulfillment in my doula career. I was heartbroken and questioning what my purpose really was, who I really was. I was unsure of everything I’d built. I’d spent so much time, energy, and prayers to get there. But it didn’t feel, possible any longer! Read More>>