So often mission and purpose driven folks have fascinating stories about where they draw their inspiration from. Often it’s a historical figure and so we’ve highlighted some of those conversations around historical figures and what some of the best and brightest have learned from them.

Ismael Jaramillo

Shakira – my favorite singer and role model. I admire shakira not only for her amazing music and those hips that don’t lie, but also for the amazing heart she has. Read more>>

Victor Pinones – Haltenhoff

When I was growing up, I knew that I wanted to build my life in the United States. My greatest risk has been following my gut and moving here at the age of 23. Read more>>

Katie Burkholder

while still being thoughtful — I am inspired by bell hooks’ philosophy, especially the thoughts she outlines in her book “All About Love.” Read more>>

Bowen Shen

I’ve always found inspiration in the polymathic brilliance of Thomas Young, the scientist who made wide-ranging contributions across disciplines, ranging from physics to linguistics and beyond. Read more>>