Over the years as we connected with incredible from folks from almost every imaginable industry we realized that every nook and cranny of our economy is full of small business owners, artists and creatives who live and breathe what they do – and their stories are nothing short of heroic. It’s the immigrant parents who overcame the odds and kept their small business alive for decades allowing their next generation to thrive and the artisans who pour their passion into every piece and refuse to let even the most common items remain mundane that make our communities come alive. The stories below will inspire you and we hope you’ll take the time to read and connect with these incredible folks.

Nishaea Richardson of Wealth Phenom LLC d.b.a Shes the Budget Guru

I have always worked in corporate administrative support positions. From hospital registration, voucher examiners, administrative assistant, and now Human Resources. I have a passion for helping and educating others and was able to fulfill that passion in my corporate administrative roles. I have also taken those passions for the last 3+ years into my business as a money coach (aka The PlayMoney Coach), and it is truly one of the most rewarding experiences to help my clients build a healthier relationship with money and watch them really start enjoying life without the financial stress that many people carry. Read more>>

Helene Delince & Stephanie Vincent of The Fitting Curve

We’re here today with our very own brick-and-mortar business through a happy accident that started almost 30 years ago. Helene missed the deadline for signing up for her internship in college. She ended up receiving the very last one which was assisting in admin work at a small Upper East Side lingerie shop. When she was offered an opportunity to stay on and learn the retail business she worked her way up the ladder and helped expand many lingerie and bra fitting shops in New York City. As for Stephanie, the impact of attending a fashion high school and learning about lingerie from the garment construction side is what made her get her working papers while in high school and receiving professional bra fitting training at the same Upper East Side lingerie shop as Helene. Through years of working a few luxury retail jobs and wearing different hats, the decision to work for ourselves and open our boutique was made 8 years ago. Read more>>

Shana Gourdine

Five years ago I started on a journey to healing and during my journey I realize It was power in my words. I started my first book The Mask Behind The Mask. As time went I am Now award winning author , 6 books in and more to come . I Have expand to creating Shana Unmasking Motivation where we help people self empower and learn to build there confidence from behind the mask . We work with youth and adults to use their power voice and reinvent themselves to be the best version of themselves. We provide workshop , one -on-one coaching , Poetry , help write books , and speaking engagements on various topics Read more>>

Steve Caputo

When we last chatted, I mention that I was at what some call “The Next Chapter” of a life that has been blessed with love and good health, and that the end of my working career afforded me the opportunity to explore a more creative and expressive side of my personality. I’ve been creating images since I was handed a camera in my teens, and resonance is at the core of why I love doing what I do. The camera is my permission slip to memorialize moments of incredible natural wonder, forging a fleeting glimpse into a fixed gaze, turning the temporal into something tangible. All in the effort to make a connection. Read more>>

Mercedes Gibson of it’s career coaching through the lens of wellness

Why don’t we start with my bio? Mercedes Gibson (she/her) serves as the visionary force propelling Mercedes Gibson Coaching—an enterprise passionately dedicated to dismantling the racial and gender wealth divide. With a focused mission, she pioneers culturally attuned career and wellness coaching meticulously crafted for women and femmes of color. Drawing upon a remarkable 22-year journey within the nonprofit realm, Mercedes presently holds the role of Economic Equity Senior Program Manager at The Greenlining Institute. In this capacity, she ardently champions businesses owned by individuals of color, infusing advocacy with tangible impact. Read more>>

Carlotta Saracco

My dream was to become a costume designer so I studied art and fashion, in Paris. At 19 years old I got my diploma and after a few internships in Couture houses, I worked on movie sets for 3 years. As amazing as this experience was, I needed to explore other things: I went to drama school, I had small jobs, one after another, and I traveled. Thanks to that I fell in love with the art of tattooing. Read more>>

Vero Perez’s Story

My name is Vero, and I am an artist and award-winning documentary filmmaker based in New York City. Over the past five years, I have immersed myself in individual storytelling, documentary film photography, and concept direction. Before this, I created visual works From NYC to LA, to the UK, I cross geographical and cultural boundaries to capture the stories of those who are transforming, evolving, and flourishing. When I take my experimental practices on the road, I am meticulous about my choice of film types and camera bodies. At prestigious events like the biannual New York Fashion Week, you can find me with vintage cameras from the 1940s and 50s slung over my shoulders. These relics from a bygone era ground me, connecting me to a past life and enriching my artistic journey. Read more>>

Mahak Agrawal

From the vibrant streets of New Delhi to the bustling corridors of international climate conferences, our story is one of resilience, collaboration, and a deep-seated passion for both art and sustainability. I’m Mahak Agrawal, an urban planner climate science and sustainability expert, and alongside me is my mother, Manju Agrawal, a self-taught artist whose journey through life’s challenges led her back to the canvas. Read more>>

Justin Velasquez

I was around 14 or 15 when I discovered what Graphic Design was. Originally in my youth, I wanted to be a game developer but I ended up going down the Graphic Design route and I never turned back. I originally got into it so I could make memes but I ended up really learning skills such as photoshop and illustrator and then fully committing to this. I’ve never regretted this decision because it’s truly felt like fate for me. As if it were my DESTINY to make beautiful illustrations, graphics, and more for everyone to see and enjoy! Read more>>

 

Kendra Farstad

My career in the arts began out of necessity. Being present with my daughter was my priority, so it was very important for me to be able to forge a career that could sustain us and also fit into the lifestyle I endeavored to provide for her as a single parent. When she was around a year old, an opportunity presented itself that enabled me to work as an artist, with the condition that I not sign my own work. So began my journey as a professional artist, I was reverse-painting with oil paints on glass chandeliers for a company out of California. While it was definitely an exploitative position, it enabled me to stay home with my daughter and in turn the opportunity to embark on daily adventures with her, something almost unheard of for a single-parent who wasn’t independently wealthy. This time taught me that it was possible to make very good money with the skills that I have as an artist, for that I am incredibly grateful as it established a pathway for me to pursue an independent art career. Read more>>

Dr. Ekta Yadav , Md Mba Ms of Skincare Anarchy

My journey began with a move to the United States at the age of five. From an early age, I was drawn to the wonders of science, embarking on lab projects by the age of seven. My fascination with biomedical sciences blossomed through participating in science competitions, sparking a lifelong passion to understand the intricate workings of the human body and its interaction with the surrounding environment. Years later, this curiosity propelled me into the world of medicine. While studying as a double major (BS and BA), I also contributed to R&D teams for industry leaders like Procter & Gamble, assisting in the launch of innovative products like Tampax Pearl. My academic pursuits led me to delve into medical research, focusing on areas such as breast cancer, wound healing, and microbiology. Read more>>

Cole Parker

I began making jewelry about nine years ago, after a friend suggested I find a hobby to help deal with my severe anxiety. I have Complex PTSD, meaning I’ve been through quite a lot, so my anxiety can paralyze me easily. I spent weeks learning each new technique until I perfected it, and soon became obsessed. After several years I began selling my work, and people loved it! I opened an online shop and sold there, along with at markets and fairs. Now I not only make jewelry as a job, I also create to relieve stress. I’m fascinated by unique beads and love making colorful statement jewelry. Read more>>

Eden Lew’s Story

I was a kid who loved to draw. My school notebooks were peppered with doodles because my mind understood information through pictures rather than text and audio. When all the kids wanted to play sports in PE, I preferred to hang out in the art room with a blank page and my imagination. After school, I remember being excited to go to craft stores to find materials and tools that could open a new world of making. On weekends, my sister and I would wake up at 6AM to watch hours of Saturday morning cartoons, and then watch more behind-the-scenes specials on how movies and animations were made. Read more>>

Aminta Freeman’s Story

My story started in Guatemala City, Guatemala during a tumultuous time of civil war and genocide. My parents were brave enough to risk it all and we migrated to the United States. I attended the public schools in NYC and eventually found myself taking a leap of faith and attending Virginia State University (VSU). Attending VSU, changed the trajectory of my life. I met professors, mentors and peers that would open my eyes to a world of possibilities. I married and had two beautiful children. Life changed and I decided to bet on myself, divorced and moved back to NYC as a single mom. I was terrified but I started over. In 2022, I founded Moodie Vibes , a candle company with the purpose of sharing my love for candles and self care with mothers and mother figures. Candles become my outlet, my means of self care during a difficult time and I now advocate the importance of pouring into ourselves with aromatherapy. The Scent of Self Care. Read more>>

Tiana And Brandon Dottin’s Story

the body ever since. Brandon ran track in high school and college and developed a passion for challenging the body and the mind. We met in the gym in 2012, and the rest if history! Since then, we have been training private clients all over NYC for the past 12 years. In 2020, we launched the retreat aspect of our business, going to places such as Nicaragua, Greece, France, Joshua Tree, Sicily, Mexico, and Thailand for our Movement + Adventure Retreats. In 2024, we opened Fire Studio in Harlem — a boutique fitness studio offering strength training, rowing, and yoga classes. At Fire Studio you can fuel your fire with feel good fitness and build community along with strength. Read more>>

Emrod

My love for music started the day I was born! Before I could even form words, I would be humming songs all day long instead of playing with any toys or kids. My first time in a studio was at the age of 4 years old and I began singing out at 8 years old! Soon I learned instruments such as the guitar, clarinet, and piano! I began accompanying myself on stage when I was 13 and built connections through gigging around Buffalo NY, Nashville TN, Atlanta, GA, and Washington, DC! I released my first album when I was 13 and have been releasing since! My mom has been very supportive through this journey and with little to no connections and no idea where to start we made our way to working with rappers within Buffalo, NY to working with people like HONOREBEL and Scott Storch! Also, I played a show in front of 25,000 people with Nickelback! As I continue to build myself and my image I have learned a lot throughout the journey and I can’t wait to make more memories and reach my dreams! Read more>>

Luca Fontaine

I was born in Paris and have Italian-French origins, growing up between Paris, Venice, and London. From a young age, I was immersed in a world of music, movies, and books, which ignited my passion for acting. My journey began with local acting classes, supported by my parents who believed in me even more than I believed in myself. After an initial setback in my first attempt to get into Juilliard, I moved to London to gain experience. This period was challenging, but it taught me resilience and the importance of seeing opportunities where others might see obstacles. A year later, I auditioned again and was accepted into Juilliard’s prestigious MFA Acting program, graduating in 2022. With an acceptance rate of only 0.9%, it was a testament to my determination and hard work. Read more>>

Donny Saygo

I started from being in a city like Butler with no opportunity to moving a city like Birmingham that has some opportunity and ever since then i started striving for what’s been possible to gain with music. Being in a scene where it has it’s balance networking with people that is like-minded as far as having a passion for this like i do. The more they have the more they inspire me to have the same energy regardless of the flaws near in the scene. The journey has its ups and downs but as long as I kept going, something was going to follow through and now you’re seeing everything i been working hard for as a hip hop artist, music producer, band vocalist, etc. Read more>>

Antoni Tzavelas of Smiling Bowtie

As I have a very diverse career journey through six different careers, I started off my career as a fashion designer and was designing clothing for almost a decade. I loved my career in fashion, but in 2003, the fashion industry imploded here in Canada where I’m from and had left me for broke. It opens the door to new opportunities that led me to enter the tech industry. Upon acceptance of my ending career and fashion, a friend of mine told me how much money he was making in the tech industry which led me to go back to school and take a database administration course at my local community college. I graduated a year later, and after six months landed my first role in tech as a systems administrator. Read more>>

Christenelle Diroc

I Started Hip-Hop Because Of Tupac’s Influence On Me. I Was A Kid And Was His #1 Fan. Those Songs Drew A Tole On Me, & Made Me Be Able To Start Writing My Own Music. I Got To Where I’m At Today By Being Me, Always Being Funny BUT Knowing When To Be Serious. I Kept All Relationships Tighter Then A Screw Because One Hand Washes Thee Other. Also Making Sure I Never Let People Down And Always Kept My Word. Being Nice Even When You Have A Bad Day Is Crucial Because You Never Know Who You’ll Meet Read more>>

Aquerrah Cannon

I got my start in the beauty community at 14. At the time I was a true Novice, just “green” for lack of a better word. Even in the earlier stages of my career with all the imperfections, I knew I was an Artist. Before I knew it, I’d perfected my craft and built an amazing community of supporters and fellow Artists and Cultivators (still growing). I got this far by Faith,Creativity and a sprinkle of Finesse!! Read more>>

Alan Berg of Wedding Business Solutions

I was in a job where I was making really good money, company car, fully paid benefits… and hating going to work every day. My friend bought a wedding magazine and wanted me to come sell for him. It was a new industry, doing outside sales (which I had never done), cold calling (which I had never done), and he was offering no salary, base or draw, just commission-only (on a 1099). Oh, and my wife was pregnant with our second son, our first son was turning 3, and my wife wasn’t working. I felt that had to be better than going to a job I hated every day. I actually said the words “It’s not the money” when I gave notice that I was leaving… and I really meant it. Five years later we bought the two wedding magazine franchises I had been selling for. Read more>>

Jineen R. Huff’s Story

My name is Jineen R. Huff. I am a Mindset Coach, Self-Love Expert, Speaker, and Host of the Intentional Queen Podcast: Journey to Restoration with Jineen. Not to mention, a newfound author of my self-published book that launched in February 2024: “I Choose Me- The Intentional Guide To Never Losing Yourself Again”. I am proud and grateful for over 100 books sold and 30+ 5-star Amazon Reviews since its release. However, the lives changed and transformations have been the most rewarding part for me! I tell people I have many receipts, but I love women’s empowerment and being a boy mom! When I am not coaching or speaking, I am a nurse anesthesiologist! Read more>>

Stells Di Rossi Hurst

I was fortunate to grow up in an international family deeply immersed in the arts and entertainment. With roots both abroad and stateside, I was exposed to a diverse array of cultures and creative expressions from a young age. My family is filled with writers, painters, musicians, and performers, so it felt natural to follow in their footsteps. However, while the arts were a family legacy, I chose to carve out my own path in alternative rock—a genre that wasn’t typical in my family. Despite the social biases and stereotypes, I was determined to break new ground and make a name for myself in this uncharted territory. Read more>>

Wind / Nori & Barbie Kelley

Barbie – We got married in 1993 and immediately began writing, playing & recording music together, both in secular and church settings. I was in a band with my brother before we met. We were on a southeast tour when we met Nori and ended up recording a project with him some months later. That’s when our relationship started. Nori – I had been writing, performing and recording as a solo artist since the late 70’s as well as being a session musician. So it was basically a match made in heaven, so to speak. We’ve done 17 albums and EPs, plus there are a few separate recordings we did before, as well as a couple of projects Nori did for Mel Bay in the 90’s. Read more>>

Will Bradford

I grew up in Detroit, a city rich in Black culture and history. We were always surrounded by great music, food, and lots of family. My parents were blue-collar workers, the “salt of the earth” you might say. They emphasized the value of education from an early age. But I came up in the 80s and 90s when Detroit was facing some tough challenges related to economic decline, crime, and violence, and it was a rough place to be in high school. You could be bullied over anything. The only city I ever knew was feeling like a bubble that I needed to bust out of. As soon as I turned eighteen, I joined the military as my ticket out of Detroit. Read more>>

Street Light Boutique of Street Light Boutique LLC

Our story beings when Rahlou walked into a clothing boutique that I owned in Little 5 Points, Atlanta, and we engaged in a two hour conversation that revolved around music, fashion, and fulfillment. Our friendship evolved and we soon realized that our artistic views and understanding of musical expression gently yet passionately complement each other. After several years of marriage and two children, we decided that we would put our entrepreneurial minds together. Rahlou had been honing his skill as a DJ/producer for decades and decided to coach me on how to be a disc jockey, after I expressed my long standing admiration with the artistic ability of creating a musical vibe. After moving to my hometown of Brooklyn, NY, we began deejaying together and combining our sounds in musical harmony. Read more>>

Jourdan Truth Mcgowan

I began my art career driven by sheer curiosity and a deep desire to bring my childhood creative thoughts to life. Encouraged by my college art professor, who believed I had the potential to be an artist, I pursued this path with determination. After graduating, I launched my art business. Although I didn’t make much money initially, and my work has evolved significantly since then, the inspiration and passion have always been present. Read more>>

Janki Patel of Jump Ahead Pediatrics

I grew up in Jersey City within a large, tight-knit extended family, cherishing the support and joy of my childhood. Transitioning into high school, I pondered my future, finding my passion in aiding and connecting with children. Through volunteering and research, my path toward becoming an occupational therapist became clear. After applying to several schools, I earned acceptance into a rigorous five-year master’s program, where fate led me to meet my future business partner. Read more>>

Jordan Deer Heart

When I began my journey, I didn’t know that that was what what I was doing. It began by wanting to heal and improve myself, so I really dedicated myself to that in a way I never had before. I had to put myself out there and try things I wasn’t sure about, be willing to get uncomfortable and commit to the long game. This was all in the form of EMDR therapy, breathwork and energy healing. And though it was really hard, I saw results and kept going with it. And the more I kept going the more I became interested in how it worked. And opportunities to take trainings arose. Which were still big leaps of faith financially and I didn’t intend to go professional with any of them. I just wanted to know for myself, and be trained in tools to support myself as best I could. Read more>>

Joshua Law

I grew up in a town of 300 people in Illinois. I am the middle of five children. After graduating college from Western Illinois University, I moved to Las Vegas with my oldest brother. I taught special education in Las Vegas for 4 years. When the terrorist attacks of September 11th, 2001 happened, I left teaching and joined the Army. I was assigned to Iraw in 2004–2005. I was with the 1st Calvary Division, 2-7 Cav, stationed just outside of Baghdad. We were deployed throughout the country of Iraq, including Najaf and Fallujah. After leaving the Army, I went back to teaching for a few months before joining the police department in Las Vegas. I am married and have one son from a previous marriage and a new stepdaughter. My main hobbies are trail running and ultrarunning. I run with my wife through the deserts of Las Vegas and in races around the country. Read more>>

Mario Vivas of Criollas Baked Empanadas

Growing up in Buenos Aires, Argentina, food is an important part of the culture but especially for me and my family, food is what brings us together. I grew up in a house where people and guests flowed in and out constantly. When I was a kid, my parents would frequently have people over for dinner parties. In fact, I remember being disappointed when I learned that no one was coming over for a weekend. I moved to NYC at 24 and instantly started working in catering and events. It was in those jobs I learned about anticipating people’s needs and desires and the importance of working a fast pace and being resourceful.  Read more>>

Terrell Fure’

I am a foundational black American dancehall reggae artist. Born and raised in between Long Island, Queens, and Brooklyn New York. As a young artist I performed a host of back yard house parties, basement house parties, local talent shows, and clashed several local reggae artist which then I created a huge buzz. Landing me getting interviewed and my music played on local radio stations. My passion for reggae began as a dancer who’s moves were taught by then my mother’s boyfriend named Sprocket. Sprocket would freestyle and create his own reggae dances while reggae dancehall music would play from his sound system. Then I would follow his lead also adding my own twist as he danced while crowds of people watched in admiration- As a teenager while then growing into a songwriter/Artist I was mentored by another dancehall reggae artist named Dreadful who has now passed on. Read more>>

Boubacar Diallo

My name is Boubacar Diallo. My family is from West Africa a country called Guinea. I grew up in Brooklyn, NY. Since I was a kid I have always been influenced by music and fashion. I got started just by wanting to create and express myself through fashion and art. I truly enjoy the creative process. In 2015 I decided to screen print some T-Shirts and I never stopped since then. The idea and the name “Last Throne” just came to me one day. The concept is that we all are Kings & Queens and that we all should embrace our own uniqueness and there will never be another YOU to exist ever again in life. When it comes to the images on my shirts I normally collaborate with a team of illustrators. Most of my art comes from my life experiences. Around 2017 I decided to create my website www.lastthroneclothing.com and that helped me expand the business. Read more>>

Jeremiah Phillipe

I’ve always had an eye for nature, so photography started for me when we went on our fishing trips. When the fishing was slow, I would get my camera out and take photos of the beautiful scenery that flyfishing has to offer. I quit my job of 25 years at the Post Office to pursue my dreams. I want to make a living doing what I love instead of it being a “hobby.” Read more>>

Nicci Sevier-vuyk

I am a contemporary American artist known for my striking pop art acrylic paintings and sculptures of iconic objects from American culture. My artwork reflects my deep-rooted fascination with the dynamic relationship between appearance and meaning, especially societal ideas of beauty. Read more>>

Rijaa Nadeem of The Art Escape Residency

The Art Escape Residency was born from a simple idea. Me and my partner wanted to establish a space where artists, writers and musicians could come to be free to express themselves while building meaningful relationships with other creatives. We wanted them to be inspired by each other and recharge in the beauty of a new location. Where imagination could run wild while we all supported each other in creating beautiful memories and art together. Read more>>

Patrick Schober of Poetica Marketing

I started my career as an editor in the Philadelphia area. I worked at a company that specialized in B2B newsletters, and I was responsible for covering Accounts Payable and Payroll, and I occasionally contributed copy on HR, IT, safety, and nonprofits. Looking back, much of that experience was invaluable to where I am today. In addition to refining my abilities as a writer, that job taught me so much about business and the business world as a whole. Read more>>

Nakisha Adams of Skribble

I was invited to a networking mixer and being introduced to an individual who was seeking a grant writer. I had not started Skribble as of yet, and was still working in Corporate America. I had only assisted close friends with grant writing. The individual took a chance on me. I remember looking it over, what feels like a million times before we submitted it. That would be the first grant he received, and it started of chain of email introductions from individuals he knew, that wanted my assistance. I was balancing working my job and coming home to assist individuals with their nonprofits. There was not enough time in the day, and something had to give. Read more>>