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

Shamika Minisee

It’s heartening to know that my brother took on the responsibility of being my mentor and guide, not only pouring into my life but also into the lives of others. His community-oriented mindset and willingness to uplift those around him are admirable qualities that contribute to a positive legacy. The conversation that I shared about my future plans and his response exemplified his belief in my potential and his determination to see me succeed. His words, “somebody has to make it out of the hood,” not only highlighted his faith in my abilities but also reflected his commitment to breaking barriers and making a positive impact on our community. Read more>>

Jordan Martins

My grandmother (or “Vovo” in Cape Verdean Kriolu) is my hero. She is uneducated (she cannot even read or write), but she is one of the wisest people that I know. She emigrated from Cape Verde, West Africa in the late 80s with my grandfather who opened a store in the Dorchester neighborhood in Boston. Read more>>

Marshella Griffin-Larry

My Mother, Marlene Griffin is my Shero. Growing up, I can remember studying her closely and trying to emulate her in every way. The way she treated others with love, always providing a smile to make someone else’s day, even if her day wasn’t going so well. The way she dressed, put on her make-up, changed her hair all the time, danced, sang and told jokes. Read more>>

Estela Guajardo

My Abuela is my biggest hero. She passed away in 2008, but the impression she left on me I hold close to my heart, Growing up, I admired this woman and was so amazed how she could juggle being a stay at home mother and grandmother while still running her side hustles. I remember sitting next to her while she would sew for hours and then take a break to cook lunch for my cousins and I, I still have the goodie bags she would sew for our parties that would coordinate to the theme of the party. I was 12 when she passed away, too young to fully process what was happening, but here I am almost 30 and able finally understand. I am my own worst critic because I know perfection exist and “good enough” is not an option when I have high expectations to live up to. Read more>>

Alexej Savreux

I have many influences and antecedents, of course, but I suppose that’s a good distinction, say “hero” versus “influences,” for example. An influence might be Catallus, or Pythagoras, or Laing, or Duchamp. However, a “hero” is unique. There are layers and degrees to all of these sorts of discussions. My childhood hero was Jackie Robinson. Now, of course, I am not a baseball player nor much of an athlete, but I was pretty preoccupied with hockey and baseball growing up. There was one quote that stood out to me that struck me as particularly arresting attributed to Robinson I believe: “A life is not important except in the impact it has on other lives.” Read more>>

Habiba Faisal

My hero, in the present situation, is not a single person. Had I answered this question a few days back – my answer would have been the name of a tech expert or founder, associated with silicon valley or MAANG. However, now, in the past few days my perspective towards life has changed to an extent that the people I did not know once have now become an epitome of resilience for me and I am highly inspired by them. I believe when you call someone your hero and ideal, you should look up to them because they are better in ways and in aspects in which you intend to learn in. Read more>>