We asked some very thoughtful members of our community to reflect on what they’ve learned from their heroes.

Nell Narasappa

For the longest time I didn’t necessarily consider anyone my hero. Read more>>

Sam Mabry

My hero is my dad. He is my hero because he and my mom decided to adopt me from zero days old. He didn’t think twice or even allow me to feel unloved. I watched him endure the pain of losing my adoptive mom and becoming a single parent with two kids. Move us across the country to the east coast, not having time to grieve and return to serving our country in the US Army. He later remarried, and our family expanded. Read more>>

Joy Nuanez

My hero(s) are my grandparents. My grandfather is a retired nuclear engineer and my grandmother is a retired teacher. I wouldn’t be who I am or where I am in my life without them and I am extremely grateful for them everyday. They have taught me love, patience, hard work, and kindness. My grandmother is an incredible sewer and quilter and is the reason and inspiration behind what I do. Read more>>

Jocelyn Loza

My father is my hero, though he passed away twelve years ago. His values and actions continue influencing me as a person, parent, and entrepreneur. My father never believed in rejection and would never take “no” for an answer. He instilled in me that persistence and determination can overcome any obstacle. Read more>>

Reilly Wadsworth

This is the easiest question I’ve ever been asked because the answer is so simple to me. It’s my parents. Read more>>

Nia Renee

My hero is four-year-old, Nia Renee. I know that might sound a bit vein but it is true. Everything I do, what I do, and who it is for is the four-year-old version of myself. When I was a child I was taught to be seen and not heard. I was taught that I shouldn’t have a voice and speak up about the injustices that I endured. Read more>>

Laura Tucker

My hero is my 6 year old son. He was born premature when i was only 24weeks with cerebral palsy. If it wasn’t for him i wouldn’t be where i am today. I had him in 2017 2 years before covid and it was hard keeping up with a 9-5 along with being there for him. I had to find a way to be able to have him near which was comfortable for me other than asking for help. Read more>>

Daniel Baghdasarian

My hero is definitely my father. He’s an incredible inspiration to me because of his journey as an immigrant in the United States. When he first arrived, he had nothing but the determination to create a better life for our family. Seeing him overcome numerous challenges and obstacles has taught me the value of hard work, resilience, and perseverance. Read more>>