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

Natasha Robey

I will make this plural, my HEROS are definitely God first, then my parents. My mother is a REAL MOTHER! There were times when I really wanted to completely give up and she would stand me back up and send me on! For example, when I launched my first ever event, literally 3 people showed up. I went all out, I got a building, vendors, 3 other estheticians, a massage therapist and everything! I was so discouraged! I remember telling my mom “I guess this isn’t the field for me!”. She was like “Keep going! The people are coming! Hardly anyone showed up to Tyler Perry’s first play , now look at him!”. She was right! Read more>>

Sohee Jun

I have so many heroes and people I look too so it’s really hard to pick one!! In the past several years, I’ve really looked to add mentors and people I am inspired by into my tribe so that I can learn from them and be with like minded people who are on a mission to do good in the world. With that being said, my heros are Oprah and Michelle Obama for the obvious things we know about them. In my day to day life, I am so inspired by my friends and mentors, Selena Rezvani, Maya Hu-Chan, Marshall Goldsmith, Chelsea Pottenger and Kym Dolcimascolo. Read more>>

Mandy Picchiottino

Anthony Bourdain remains an enduring influence on me as a travel professional due to his unparalleled knack for connecting with people on a profound human level. His ability to uncover common ground with individuals from diverse backgrounds and cultures was nothing short of remarkable. Bourdain’s genuine curiosity and respect for the communities he encountered during his travel adventures set a standard for authentic, immersive travel experiences. His approach to storytelling through food and culture has inspired me to seek deeper connections with the people I meet while exploring the world, fostering a richer appreciation for the tapestry of human experiences that travel can offer. Bourdain’s legacy continues to remind me that travel is not just about places; it’s about the people who make those places come alive. Read more>>

MICHELLE KIM

My hero and idol is Gloria Vanderbilt. I admire her tenacity the most. Her family and her have survived a lot of tragedy and heartache, yet Gloria always lived to keep loving-her family, her romantic partners, and life. And through it all, she created beauty through fashion and her art. She was so ahead of her time in the 60s and 70s-working with manufacturers to license her name and designs so that they could reach a mass audience. Yet, Gloria Vanderbilt always remained respected and elevated. I appreciate so much how she was a creative business woman that also nurtured her family. I am obsessed with her interiors and how over the top she was with them-collaging the rooms in their entirety and wearing beautiful outfits to match. I love seeing photos of her and her children in these rooms, how they are enveloped in her love and creativity. Read more>>