Our stories are often hard to understand until folks understand our true motivations, our true drivers and the stories behind why our mission or purpose truly matters to us. We’ve asked some inspiring folks from the community to talk to us about why they do what they do and have shared some of our favorite responses below.

Preethi Chandrasekhar

I founded the Eager Travele LLC in 2020 with the mission to help as many people of color as possible to get outside, regardless of age, generational trauma or fitness levels. I aim to do this through my e-guides, ‘how to’ videos and blogs. A little backstory on why this is my current purpose in life: I grew up in India as an only child in Chennai and immigrated to the States with my parents when I was 12. Our little family of 3 was in for a rough time as each of us tried to assimilate into a new culture – me with school and my parents with jobs. We essentially were all starting over and the outdoors wasn’t even on the radar at this time. Culturally speaking, growing up in India, the outdoors wasn’t a thing back then. Read more>>

Kevin Solomon

The story behind the mission is simple. I built a platform where independent artists and creators can thrive. When I began SlaughtaHouze in the early 2000s it was to help launch careers. Serve a stepping stone for individuals to harness their talents and passion. Not everyone can get chosen and signed to a lucrative business deal so we took the average indie artist and gave them a place to to grow. Grow a fan base and etc. SlaughtaHouze was MY TABLE. I wanted to “have a seat” at their table meaning I wanted to get signed to a record label or link wit an established crew but none of that happened QUICK ENOUGH for me so I created my own “brand” and made a way for people like me who share the same passion I have, to get SHINE in the Houston Hip Hop community. Read more>>

Ryan Shelton

Our mission is straightforward. Design, Print and build rockets to reach altitudes no other 3D printed rocket has. But that is easier said than done. My interest in Technolgy started at an early age. Around 3 I believe when I saw a train for the first time. The number of moving parts fascinated me beyond belief (it was a steam powered locomotive) and once time had passed, I started developing a fascination and passion for trains, planes, cars and of course rockets. Read more>>

Megan Schiller

Growing up, I was heavily influenced by the creativity of my father and my grandmother, who were both artists. They taught me how to use creative materials and allowed me the freedom and independence to explore these materials in my own way. Creative expression has always been an integral outlet for me and I grew up feeling lucky to be born into an artistic family. But after college, I began working in preschools and I realized that kids don’t need to have artistic parents in order to cultivate creative confidence. They simply need access to creative supplies, a little guidance, and the freedom to explore the materials in their own way. With this access and freedom, kids can use creative exploration as a tool to learn about themselves and the world around them. They can develop self-sufficiency, innovative thinking, and maker skills, among many others. Read more>>

Alex Collier

When my husband and I got married, we were blown away by the love and care our wedding vendors put into our event. It was truly a joy to work with them and it felt like they cared about our special day as much as we did. So when I set out to launch my brand and web design business, I knew I wanted to serve the wedding industry. My mission is the help wedding pros elevate their brands so that they can showcase their expertise and connect with their dream clients. I love empowering fellow business owners to create a life and career on their own terms and to step into a new chapter in their business! Read more>>

Jennifer Bi

The mission for Mystical Illusion Photography is having the clients feel confident and powerful with how they look. I want my client to feel beautiful with who they are, how they look, and how they want their photos to be. I will always ask clients on what their vision is for their photos. I try to bring their vision to life or add a little of my own into it and give clients want they want. In society, there are so many things they want others to do and be like and I want my client to forget about that and make the photos the way they want without being restricted or having to follow through with what society wants them to do. We all have our insecurities and with society adding to it, it makes things more stressful and have us change to someone that we are not. The mission for my photography is to help others feel happy, proud, and confident of themselves when looking back at their photos. This mission means a lot to me because I know what it is like to measure up to expectations of society and others. Life already is hard enough as it is, why not make the photography session fun and inspiring? Read more>>

Celeste Ballerino

Celeste Ballerino STUDIO | Designs by Celeste redefines urban living with modern elegance. Led by a disciplined visionary, realtor-turned-developer Celeste, we infuse each project with serene design and artistic finesse. Our mission: revolutionize urban spaces into havens of tranquility, embracing nature’s essence within the urban landscape. With autonomy, we curate projects and assemble teams embodying our values, elevating urban development to unparalleled excellence. Read more>>

Nkem Oghedo

As a Black businesswoman who is often “the only one” in a room, my professional goal is to create equitable economies where Black communities thrive. I believe that, in America, entrepreneurship is the most proven vehicle for community & self-actualization. So, with Adá, our mission is to help Black entrepreneurs build the businesses of their dreams on their own terms. Read more>>

Raphaëlle Duché

Back in 2018, Buck Adams – a veteran & social entrepreneur – was serving time in Colorado while Raphie – a French law graduate & graphic designer – was playing semi-professional American football for the Denver team. Buck and Raphie met during an inside-out workshop about communication and non-violence in Camp Georges West, a minimum security prison in Golden, Colorado. During his incarceration, Buck witnessed the incredible creative talent hidden behind prison walls and saw these masterpieces being traded for commissary items: a portrait for a pack of ramen noodles. He thought there needs to be a venue for these artists to display their work to the public and receive financial compensation for it. Read more>>

Minerva Roca

It all started with a simple realization. As a mom and someone passionate about digital marketing, I saw many fellow mompreneurs struggling to manage their business and use their digital presence to drive sales while also being there for their families. I knew firsthand the challenges of balancing both worlds. So, I asked myself, why not lend a hand? I talked to these amazing women and found out that they were finding it hard to get help that truly understood the unique challenges of being both a mom and a business owner. This resonated deeply with me. I’ve been in those situations where my kids needed me right when something important in my work was happening. It’s a tough balance to strike. Read more>>

Linh Nguyen

Our ambitious mission is to become the pioneer Vietnamese Jewelry brand that showcases Vietnamese Arts and Cultures by presenting one of a kind collections of silver design. We aim to captivate a global audience through a modern interpretation of Heritage meets Contemporary. Read more>>

Ceitci Demirkova

OUR STORY. I founded Changing a Generation, as a nonprofit organization in 1995. Growing up in Bulgaria, a former communist country, I was faced with a lot of hardships and saw firsthand poverty, and abandonment of children. When I was seven my little sister passed away as an infant shortly after her birth. A year later my parents decided to adopt a little boy from the local orphanage, so we can give him a better life. Unfortunately, the adoption didn’t go through because we didn’t have all the necessary funds, and shortly after the little boy passed away from lack of human touch and malnutrition. Read more>>

Manon Alexandra

Not only are our products aesthetically pleasing, they are cruelty free and ecofriendly! I only ever use ecofriendly biodegradable glitter in all of our products. When it comes to our packaging, we also only use ecofriendly shrink wrap bags, biodegradable packing peanuts and recycled packing supplies. Although it is more expensive to be ecofriendly, this is something that Man on the Moon Mystics has been practicing since the beginning, and I find it extremely important to continue to do so. I care very much about sustaining our planet and am always open to finding new ways my business can be even more ecofriendly. Read more>>

Alison Bozarth

Our mission is to create an art supportive community. This is with in the artists themselves by supporting each other as well as having a place to show their work to the public. We also strive to connect ourselves with other galleries providing better opportunities for our artists as well as invite the public to become part of the community by seeing the process and being able to purchase artworks that speak to them. Read more>>

Rene Johnson

Our mission is to be a company/brand that establishes creative opportunity in our community and the people’s athletic brand of choice. We understand in the urban community opportunity is slim and a person’s success depends heavily on on environment, circle of friends and exposure. At Go Athletics we believe that anyone who has a goal should have an outlet to see it through. Read more>>

Sophia Wong

My upbringing and experiences as a child are really the driving force behind most of what I do. Through my artwork, I depict portraits and scenes influenced by my cultural background along with an exploration of indigenous cultures and practices. Creating Sona Art Studio LLC, in part, served to further that purpose. I was also motivated to start my business by beginning some of my most crucial developmental years as a young artist. I felt a drive to provide the same opportunities and guidance I was blessed to have, and that’s what blossomed into my business offering private art lessons geared towards children and young adults who are interested in pursuing art school or developing an art practice of their own. Read more>>

Diamond Baker

My name is Diamond Baker, I am the CEO of I’m Royalty Skin Studios. My journey with I’m Royalty began in 2018, as a college student at North Carolina A&T. When I started to explore eyelash extensions I was shocked by the number of compliments I would receive. I would be stopped in airports, drive-thrus, nail salons, on trains with people complimenting me and asking me about my lashes. Read more>>

Rocquel

My name is Rocquel, I’m an Educator, Tutor and Curriculum Developer. In 2021, I decided to launch my own tutoring company “Learn Reading EZ” offering online tutoring services in reading and math for students grade PreK- grade 5 after watching the disparities in education post Covid-19. At the time I was a teacher for 6 years, I noticed that students were struggling socially, academically in reading and math and more importantly I witnessed the switch of learning becoming more digital. Read more>>

Teresa Hernandez-Howe

The mission is to expose Black girls to entrepreneurship, helping them tap into their talents, walk in their purpose and most importantly ensuring they have a clear understanding of their worth. This mission is a meaningful one for me. As a Black woman, I have been marginalized! I have worked for large corporations and oftentimes I had to question my own worth. I was fighting for pay equality, promotions and it is still a current fight. I have a Masters degree in business, with strong work ethics, and a passion to serve others. My leadership competencies have been overlooked, and opportunities were given to other colleagues who did not possess the skills for the job. I have also witnessed a Black woman in a leadership role receive a lower compensation than her direct report who happens to be a white woman. Read more>>

morgan filler

I’ve been a passionate waterwoman since I was young. As a top world-ranked professional open water swimmer, a swim coach and a surfer, I’ve explored the rugged, frigid Maine waters to the idyllic Hawaiian ones – and, for the love of it, I continue to seek out these physical challenges. Being an athlete mom, I continue to motivate my girls and kids in our community to not only be capable swimmers but to love the water and treasure this precious resource. Read more>>

Dalania Stevens

D HOUSE OF ANGELS was founded by Dalania Stevens. Being a survivor of domestic violence, she decided to create a safe haven for women and men in the community. Having a family member murdered in front of her kids also pushed me even more to help others escape. In 2022 with the help of the community D House Of Angels was able to help 75 women and men escape their abusers and helped 50 kids with Christmas gifts. Read more>>

Nathan Jerue

We want to spread the joy of music to everyone. We all love playing music together and it brings a feeling of happiness and completion in our lives that we want others to feel. It’s something that is extremely fulfilling and it gives a great sense of freedom that nothing else ever could. Even when playing other artist’s songs it gives us tons of freedom of expression to paint the tune in a way we feel. Read more>>

Jessica Ross

Absolutely fabulous! At JAMGOODLIVING, we’re all about spreading the good vibes and helping people live their best lives; because #lifeissojamgood! As a Creative Director and Happiness Coach, I’ve seen firsthand the power of choosing happiness and taking control of our perspectives. It’s a total game-changer, and we want to share that with the world! Our mission is all about helping people refocus their minds and create new, positive perspectives that support the life they truly want to live. And let me tell you, there’s nothing more fulfilling than seeing someone make that shift and start living their best life. Read more>>

Andrew Greene

The Peacherine Ragtime Society Orchestra is “the premier American ragtime ensemble” as hailed by The Washington Post, whose mission is to preserve and perform culturally important American popular music from the turn of the century, c. 1880-1925. We perform Americas first popular music form, Ragtime, alongside theater music, dance music, and underscore classic silent films using the original, historic orchestral scores and period instruments. Read more>>

Ken Hunt

Although in the early stages, my mission for a company I am calling Innergiving is, “to facilitate transparent and sustainable giving that fuels mental health & well-being nonprofits with the exposure and funding needed to bring their visions forward.” The motivation behind this business model can be attributed to my own lifelong journey. I have spent the better part of 30 years in the financial services industry, building and creating from the ground up. What I wasn’t conscious of during that time was the reason behind the chase for status, money, possessions, and a pursuit to feel valued. Read more>>

Helya Mohammadian

At Slick Chicks we pride ourselves on being much more than just a clothing brand in the fashion industry. We are a mission-driven company founded by a woman, and our journey began with a real story that has shaped every aspect of our brand. Our primary mission is to make fashion accessible to everyone, regardless of age, size, ability, or background. We firmly believe that everyone deserves to express their unique style and feel confident in what they wear. We are committed to designing clothing that is not only fashionable but also comfortable and functional, catering to diverse bodies and needs. Our brand was born out of personal experience and a genuine desire to create a positive impact. Read more>>

Justin Honigstein

Jambox was created to give Charlotte creatives, especially musicians, a place to practice and grow their craft. As musicians ourselves we know the importance of a proper rehearsal space. Playing in a garage, storage unit, or dirty old rundown music practice space just won’t cut it for most of us. That is why we decided to make a new space where musicians of all kind can feel comfortable, meet others, and be inspired. The importance of a creative space can not be understated. We have seen and heard the success stories of Charlotteans who come through Jambox. Whether they meet a new band member, find a videographer for a music video, or just write a new song, we are proud to be a part of their growth as artists. Read more>>

Dr. Kristian Edwards

I am the founder of BLK + GRN and a Public Health professor. I read, “Study: Women of Color Exposed to More Toxic Chemicals in Personal Care Products” by the Environmental Working Group. The article concluded that products marketed to Black people are more toxic than products marketed to every other demographic. I was personally committed to using products that were natural and non-toxic. On this journey, I read the book Our Black Year, which discussed how individuals had a lot of power to uplift Black businesses if they purchased their products. Read more>>

Jenny Bitner

Jenny spent over a decade of her corporate career as a General Manager for the largest chain of Fitness Clubs in Canada. She was a top performer and award nominee multiple times over. She was often referred to as “The Director of Fun” as she led her teams success through the frequency of play and joy. In 2015, she had to step down from her career as she battled with chronic anxiety and panic attacks as a result of a lack of tools and understanding on how to regulate her nervous system in a high-paced, high-demand work environment. Read more>>

Sandee Ewasiuk

I wouldn’t say that I’m a mission driven company, as I work independently as a fine art painter, but certainly do have missions and my current mission involves bringing public awareness to engaged and threatened wildlife. I’ve been working on a series of paintings in hopes of raising that awareness. Read more>>

Sarah Bier

Being a female entrepreneur since a young age, I always wanted to set an example for other women to see that they could do the same if they put their mind to it. I don’t have any partners or investors and I fund my whole business as well as every idea that pops into my head solely by myself and I hope for people to see that starting and operating a business isn’t impossible to do alone. This isn’t to say that it’s an easy life or journey by any means, but it is definitely possible with enough courage and perseverance to stick to it! I developed cystic acne at the age of 11 and suffered so many years not knowing how or when it would ever go away. Read more>>

Dakota Rayne

Mission: Give voice previously-excluded authors and creators and highlight works that expose the depths of our humanity and its imperfections. I think no matter how you go into one of these things, you’re always asked “Why.” Why you did you start, why do you continue, why do you keep going. I’ve been asked “Why Inked in Gray” many times, and I’ve always given the same answer, “because I just couldn’t”. I mean, how could someone witness the undeserved hardship and struggle our marginalized communities and friends have, and *not* do anything? In those interviews, I’d elaborate on my time as a social worker, working with others trying desperately to overcome the the social injustices and the systemic issues they faced simply because of their culture, race, ethnicity, disability, etc. Read more>>

Dana Halliburton

“FIT4MOM is the nation’s leading prenatal and postnatal fitness program, providing fitness classes and a network of moms to support every stage of motherhood. From pregnancy, through postpartum and beyond, our fitness and wellness programs help make moms strong in body, mind, and spirit.” We like to say that our moms come for the workout but stay for the community. We’re more than a workout. FIT4MOM is so much more than that. It’s community in motherhood through village playdates, coffee meetups, mom’s night out, celebrating one another throughout every milestone in our journey. It’s making sure every mom feels welcomed, listened to, a safe space to open her heart & mind while being a part of a mom village that supports you through every stage. Read more>>

Elissa Costanza

I love to educate and help people by knowing that they can achieve anything with some help and financial education. It is a very meaningful mission to me so that i can help and educate others so they know what they can achieve , work towards, and pass on. Read more>>

Elliot Gindis

I am a financial advisor and educator, and I run a number of small businesses that all have to do with educating the public on personal finance and investing. These include a YouTube channel called the Keystone Financial Academy and an educational textbook called the Keystone Financial Guide. I also have a Udemy.com class on personal finance that I offer, and I teach online corporate education webinars that are run in partnership with SelfReboot.com. Finally, I also do one-on-one advisement. Read more>>

Mary Grothe

When I began my full-time career at Payroll Network, Inc., a 25-year-old payroll and HR company in Maryland, I knew one of the first projects we needed to tackle was our brand, mission, and positioning in the market. As the Chief Revenue Officer, I created a plan to scale to $50M in 5 years. Step one was to create a brand centered on a mission that was powerful and relevant to our internal team and our clients. Step two was to rebrand, and we did, to PNI•HCM. Our mission? Creating the experience employees deserve, both our own and our client’s employees. Read more>>

Kelly Von Schleis

In my early 30s, burnout hit hard after years of globetrotting as an IT Healthcare consultant, compounded by chronic injuries and the loss of my father. My quality of life plummeted — stress, fatigue, and illness became my norm. Constant doctor visits and tests only deepened my concern. Guiding clients through similar struggles as a health coach underscored that the root issues extended far beyond mere exercise routines. While health and yoga retreats provided temporary relief, I’d revert to square one post-retreat. Attempts with personal trainers and therapy yielded no significant improvement in mood and energy. This was my pivotal moment, realizing the urgent need not only for myself but for countless women grappling with stress and dissatisfaction. Read more>>

Sharissa R

The mission behind Tell Me Smthn Good is simply to highlight ‘The Good’. There is so much going on around us, personally as well as a community and it seems most of the time the bad things get all the highlights and glory. It just feels good to hear some good and to bring light to the good that is going on. On Tuesday’s we have a dedicated day for those that follow us to “Tell Me Smthn Good”…big or small. I have gotten a lot of engagement from my friends and community who look forward to sharing their good and reading the good that others would like to share as well. Read more>>

Michelle Poura

My entire life I wanted to be a Lawyer. In my freshman year of high school, I applied to be in a law elective, but the school sent me an email saying the only class open was photography. The next day I went down to the school and complained about how photography is a waste of my time and that I want to be learning law, but my complaining and begging did nothing. I was still forced to take this photography class, and after 2 weeks my life changed. I fell in love with the impact that a photo can have. Being able to capture the most special moments in people’s lives. To constantly be surrounded by happiness and love. Read more>>

Nami Smith

Vegan Babe is a lifestyle brand for people who want to advocate for animals while wearing stylish, high-quality products that make you feel your best self. However, the mission and impact is what is most essential for us. We are an impact over profit company. Our goal is to plant the seed in people about living a vegan lifestyle. Our merch has catchy and witty sayings on them that make anyone turn their head, laugh, or our ultimate goal, spark a conversation. Read more>>

Justice Igunbor

“The journey to our mission of providing insight to the importance of using your imagination that God has blessed you with. Witnessing the thirst for the desire to go deeper with wisdom and understanding from God has been an observation for a while. Our mission isn’t just about creativity; it’s about transforming lives and empowering generations to come with vision because it’s the window to the soul.” Read more>>