We’ve highlighted responses from some of the brightest and most talented artists, creatives, and entrepreneurs in the community below.

Daphne Yuan

My parents have been very influential on shaping what a fulfilling and successful life means to me. Like many other immigrants, they came to the United States with very little, not knowing anyone in a foreign land, to pursue their passions and to build a better life. While my parents are extremely hard working, they didn’t always take the most “lucrative” path – they were very intentional about choosing a lifestyle that aligned with their values and how they wanted to contribute to the world. Read more>>

Latria Keon

Without question, both my parents are my hero. My mother taught me to have a servant’s heart and to always give back through time and talents; Parker’s is her namesake. My father consistently showed me the importance of having a solid work ethic and saving money. Because of their teachings, I always work to go above and beyond for my clients. Read more>>

Christina Layton

My parents are my heroes. They came to this country as immigrants and started a whole new life in their twenties. They learned the language and culture and my father started his own business. In some ways, I’ve always had an entrepreneurial eye. No matter what I wanted to do, they supported me so fully. Naturally, when I wanted to start LaytonLife Creations, they were 100% on board and ready help in any way. Without their motivation, support, guidance and example, I would never have had the courage to start my own business. Read more>>

Vincent Zurzolo

My parents are my heroes. The immigrated to the United States from Italy with nothing and made a life together, living the American Dream. My father taught me that knowledge is power and that no matter what. My mother taught me that I could be anything as long as I worked hard. Having a foundation like this helped me to believe in myself and my ability to overcome any obstacle and make my way in the world. Read more>>

Angela Vaughn

Who is my HERO? Well, that’s easy, that would be my dad, Mr. Anthony Vaughn. He is my best friend, a wonderful dad, and a business man. Growing up, I watched my dad raise 3 kids and worked two jobs, one of them was his own business. We did not struggle at all and had everything we needed and asked for thanks to our dad. Read more>>

Payton James

I would consider my parents as my heroes. I was born a quadruplet with two older brothers. I truly believe my parents were picked specifically to raise all of us. My father started his own business when my mom got into a car wreck. My dad fixed my mom’s car himself and used the $1500 insurance money to start his own collision repair company, A.I. Collision Repair. Read more>>

Kimberly Weot

I don’t believe that there is one person in my life that is considered my hero. I believe my entire family consists of heroes. My father is my hero because he taught me hard work and determination. My mother is my hero because she taught me empathy, and she is my voice of reason. My big brother, Josh, is my hero because no matter what I do, he always has my back and reminds me who I am. My significant other, Dylan, is my hero because he always supports me and pushes me to be the best version of myself. Without these four, I wouldn’t be who I am today. Read more>>

Maggie Stamper

My grandmother, Mammie always inspired. Her work ethic and strength inspired me to dig deep in times that I don’t have the “get up and go.” The youngest of all her siblings, her sister Louise taught her many life skills and how to prepare “fresh chicken,” She always told me stories about her when I would pull out her picture. What she was taught by her family, was handed down to me. I always watched her withered tanned hands prepare the very best southern food for our family each Sunday. She always gave her best after working from sunrise to sun down every single day. Read more>>

Mercedes Oliver

My hero is my mom. My mom is my biggest supporter as cliche as that sounds but she really has been there for me every step of the way. She instilled in me a strong personality and to work hard for every single thing I want. She taught me how to roll with the punches of life and continue to progress forward. She did not have an easy life but she has been the best mom. I mean she makes me chocolate chip pancakes when I’m feeling down to make me feel better. My mom taught me how to work hard and to put myself first. Read more>>