Do you remember the moment you realized what you wanted to do professionally? Was it magic? Was it scary? We wanted to hear from some of the most talented artists and creatives in the community and so we asked them to tell us the story of the moment when they knew they were going to pursue a creative career path.

Brytwauna Tang

Nipsey Hussle, also known as Ermias Asghedom, is seen by me as hero for several reasons: Entrepreneurship and Business: Apart from his music career, Nipsey Hussle was a successful entrepreneur who established multiple businesses. He aimed to inspire others and promote the importance of economic independence and financial literacy, particularly within marginalized communities. This inspired me to keep pushing forward by educating my community and business owners. Have you heard the saying nothing guaranteed, but death and taxes. So what’s better than to be that face of the industry of taxes as the entire world has to be educated onte topic. Read more>>

Abby Ryan Phillips

My dad is definitely one of my biggest heros, especially when I think about my business. He is a business owner and has been such an example to me of how it is possible to be a successful business owner, but still a very present & loving dad, prioritizing his relationship with the Lord and his family over work. It has shown me how the Lord truly blesses you when you have your priorities in the correct order. He is also always striving to learn more and improve all areas of his life, business, parenting, & more. That has taught me humility & that there is always more you can be learning & improving in your life and business! Read more>>

Monica Acosta

My parents are my heroes and have profoundly influenced me. Their entrepreneurial background has taught me the importance of being passionate about what you do, persistence, and working hard to be successful. Read more>>

Anquinette Rollins

My hero is my mother, Alma Riley. Without her, I would not have the strength, knowledge, or clue to know what advocacy is and/or how to fight for those who cannot fight for themselves. My mother taught me from an early age, when you see an injustice, and you say nothing “Silence is a form of agreement”, so when something negative happens and you said nothing to stop it, you are just as at fault as the person who did something wrong. Read more>>

Samantha Naht

My heroes are my parents, who unfortunately are no longer here. They are the reason I am who I am today. They came to America with nothing & had no clue what they were getting themselves into but knew no matter what they were going to make it work. 5 kids later and they made life happen for us, struggles & all. They’ve influenced me in so many ways. Watching them work so hard, early morning late nights, we never missed a meal. Thrifting started with them. It was so normal growing up, I remember my dad being able to find a pair of slacks for .50 cents and if it were more than $2.00 he’d put it right back  Our local goodwill was our mall & I hope that one day Leila will enjoy it as much as I do (right now she doesn’t have a choice ) but I also want her to know there is absolutely nothing wrong with secondhand shopping! Read more>>

Megan Furby

I would have to say that my hero(s) are my parents. My parents have always been my number 1 and have always pushed to have what’s best for me. They encourage me to pursue my dreams and to fight for what I believe in. I was taught that when you start something you finish it. For example: when I started a sport, even if I didn’t like it I would have to finish the season and then I never had to do the sport again. To show that you never give up on someone when they are expecting you to be there. That you are not letting someone else down, but that you are also finishing a job that you chose to do. Read more>>