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

Anyone who knows me knows that my hero is my mama. My parents split when I was little, leaving my mom to raise me and my two older sisters almost completely on her own (while also working a full time job to pay the bills). She has sacrificed so much for me and my sisters to make sure we grew up to be good people. Read More>>
Hieu Luu

My father and oldest brothers were refugees at the end of the Vietnam War. My father was younger than me when he lost both his wife and homeland, yet he had to take care of 2 sons on his own. There were so many organizations and people, including John Brahler, who helped them find refuge in the US. Our lineage survives because of the grace of all those individuals. Those are my heroes. This taught me the importance of helping and being kind to others. Read More>>
Kaleigh Howell

First and foremost, my hero is Jesus. His example of unconditional love, grace, and servant leadership has shaped how I live, how I treat others, and how I run my business. When I’m feeling overwhelmed or uncertain, I lean on my faith. It reminds me to lead with compassion, to serve with purpose, and to trust the process—even when I can’t see the full picture. Jesus has taught me that the smallest acts done with love can leave the biggest impact. Read More>>
Pepper Pyle

Ashton Loren Ryan. This woman is my inspiration.
From behind a camera, to in front of it, she’s the coolest gal I know. From her words to her heart, she is a true form, raw and real. I learn from her near or far, she pushed me to be better, go farther, get outside my comfort zone. Ashton is a woman of many hats, and I strive myself to wear many hats. Read More>>