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.

Quodd Wheeler

Zelda Wynn Valdes. Fist black female fashion designer, and boutique owner on Broadway. Her work is amazing and highly influential to me. As a designer, I personally look for inspiration in departments that i have a decent detail of knowledge, but the drive to want to learn more of what i don’t know. Her designs highlighted the figures of woman, and gave confidence. I wanted to do the same but in a unisex manner, where male and females gained confidence in their appearance. With dynamic yet simple pieces that wouldn’t overshadow physical features, but of course highlight them. Read more>>

Cristala Poole Dorsey

I don’t really count these particular people that I’m about to name as “historical figures”, but prominent figures within the Black entertainment community. Those people are Debbie Allen and Clarence Avant. Now, for years I have always said that I want to be the Debbie Allen of Houston – like, years. And the thing is….she IS from Houston. She and her sister Phylicia Rashad are right here from Third Ward, TX. It’s just the work in all of her magnficance that she has done as a black woman in this industry. From her humble beginnings as a student at Jack Yates H.S., then going on to NY and starring in F.A.M.E. to producing and directing shows such as “A Different World”, “Grey’s Anatomy” and more. Read more>>

Tim Bridges

Everyone needs a role model to look up to and train underneath. My grandfather who was an international professional painter was mine. Growing up I would sit by his side witnessing his precision focus and self trained techniques that brought him much recognition and awards. He applied his patient and detailed skills to all things in life and made the best with what he had. He wasn’t a deeply religious or spiritual person, however he was a very conscious man, which made him one of the most beautiful souls. Read more>>