We’ve always tried to ask the questions that matter but that are too awkward for people to ask their friends, family and coworkers without seeming dramatic. One of those questions is about mission and purpose – when’s the last time you asked a friend what their mission was? Too often we don’t talk about our own missions and don’t ask those close to us about theirs with the result being that our missions remain secret. Are you just a doctor or are you a doctor who wants to be there for patients in the way you wished your father’s doctor had been? People have incredible and meaningful missions, and we hope our conversations asking folks about their mission can inspire more such conversations in your life.
Sandalina Sattar
I’m the talk show host for Spotlight with Sandalina. The show presents a vulnerable deep dive into the journeys of South Asian / Muslim creators in NYC, through the course of a one-hour, one-on-one conversation. There is an entire generation of South Asians residing in first-world countries, born to immigrant parents who took a leap of faith by leaving their homeland. For the first time in South Asian history, there is an entire generation of young adults grappling with the contradictory nuances of Eastern and Western cultural ideologies. There is an emerging ecosystem of South Asians questioning generations-old thought processes, and carving a path for themselves deviating from tradition. And the best part is that they’re successful in doing so, as they’re collectively starting to get traction in mainstream media. Their individual stories are worth documenting, and I’m so proud to be one of the storytellers uncovering this phenomenon for audiences. Read more>>
Kirstin Tyler
Running a nonprofit that rescues rabbits is meaningful to me because it allows me to combine my passion for animal welfare with tangible, positive outcomes for these vulnerable creatures. Rabbits, often overlooked in the pet world, can suffer from neglect or abandonment, and our organization provides them with the care and love they desperately need. Seeing a rabbit transition from a situation of neglect to finding a loving forever home is incredibly rewarding. It’s not just about saving individual animals; it’s about advocating for better treatment and understanding of rabbits as pets. Through our work, we educate the community on responsible rabbit care and work to change perceptions, ensuring that these gentle animals receive the respect and compassion they deserve. Read more>>
Quindra Shipman-gaines
My mission behind my company is to show other young male /female entrepreneurs that you can too ! Never let anyone tell you can’t because you don’t have any college degrees like the traditional people would want you to have .Try again as many times as you need , use your resources it’s here for a reason . This is so meaningful to me reason being is I didn’t go to college. I felt like college wasn’t for me so why waste money. I wanted to step outside that traditional box . And I did the road has been long but I’m getting there ! And will continue to learn , grow and inspire others as well ! Read more>>
Steven Haynes
Every once in a while, life presents us with moments that fundamentally change our path. For me, that moment came during a trip to Norway in 2015, when I first experienced the exhilarating rush and profound peace of immersing myself in the icy waters of a Norwegian fjord. It was a wake-up call that would eventually lead me to found Fjord and dedicate my life to sharing the transformative power of cold water therapy with others. That day, I challenged myself to do an unforgettable 400m swim in the pristine fjords of Norway. That transformative experience not only changed my perspective on wellness but also planted the seed for what would become Fjord—a company born from personal experience and driven by a mission to make premium cold plunge therapy accessible to all, as a modality to improve physical and mental well-being. Read more>>
Kimberly Broffitt
“The Healing Place-Where Therapy Meets Healing” In 2018, I was extremely depressed. I lost my mother and my grandmother; the two people that understood me the most. I was in my lowest season ever and was struggling with my identity! I felt that I had nothing to live for. In 2019, I was blessed with a daughter, which saved my life! I wanted to be a role model. I had to let all of that hurt and anger go. I had something to live for. I started off just trying to be a better person and a great mom. I’ve always had a helpful nature, but I had developed trust issues with people. I started working on my mindset and my attitude. I started seeing a therapist. I wanted to be better. In 2021, I established a new church home, rededicated my life to Christ, and decided to give God a “yes” for me and for my daughter. In 2023, I was blessed to start my own mental health private practice. In my practice, I focus on helping people with their mental wellness, and healing from their wounds. It was through my own self-love journey that I was Read more>>
Zibora Gilder
Our mission at Empowered Hands is deeply personal and rooted in a commitment to ensuring everyone, regardless of their abilities or background, has access to opportunities and resources to lead fulfilling, self-directed lives. The inspiration comes from my Deaf brother’s journey, witnessing how systemic barriers and pervasive audism affected his identity and opportunities. I founded Empowered Hands to bridge these gaps by providing advocacy, training, and support, particularly for Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals of color. Read more>>
Cynthia Bischoff
Thank you so much for inviting me to share the story behind my company Heartliving. I established my coaching and seminar business in 1998, and I’m pleased that it is still thriving today. Through my work, I have developed and delivered life-coaching and wellness sessions, seminars, and products to thousands internationally, both in person and virtually. My mission and dedication to my work has shaped the meaning of my life of service and self-improvement. The mission behind my work has been an integral part of who I am. From as far back as I can remember I have been an eternal student, always looking at ways to learn, grow, and improve my life and assist others in doing the same. My mission at Heartliving and in my personal life is the same: I seek to raise my consciousness (to learn, improve, and grow) as I assist others in raising their consciousness to create a better life and a better world. Read more>>
Ilze Thielmann
Team TLC NYC (“TLC”) is an all-volunteer organization that has been greeting and assisting newly-arrived asylum seekers in New York City for over five years. Formerly a tiny group with about 10 active volunteers, TLC has exploded in the last two-plus years, as it has taken the lead on New York City’s response to the recent influx of migrants from Texas and elsewhere. After greeting just a few asylum seekers per week at Port Authority Bus Terminal during its first three years in operation, TLC has undergone a complete transformation since August of 2022, when the first charter bus filled with asylum seekers was sent to New York by Texas Governor Greg Abbott. Read more>>
Lauri De Brito
Surrogacy & Egg Donation Based in Los Angeles, Fulfilling Dreams Worldwide Since 2004, The Fertility Agency has helped bring over 1100+ babies into the world—but we are so much more than just the thousands of matches, babies, Surrogates and Egg Donors. We are an international full-service Egg Donor and Surrogacy agency based in Los Angeles California, whose goal is to honestly and professionally help create families where each person involved feels heard, safe, cared for and supported throughout the entire process. We work with all Intended Parents, Surrogates, and Egg Donors no matter their sexual preference, relationship status, ethnicity, location, etc. Our personal experiences and years of expertise provide us with the perfect balance of business and passion. Read more>>
Nikki Jardin
Reading has always been a big part of our family, especially newspapers and magazines. My Aunt was certainly no exception to this. Her coffee table always had a variety of news and lifestyle magazines, as well as various sections of the newspaper lying about. We often talked about things we learned through a new article, or worked through crosswords or other puzzles together. When my Aunt was diagnosed with Young Onset Alzheimer’s Disease and I began spending time with her in a care capacity, I noticed that she stopped reading those magazines and newspapers, or she would ask me to read things for her, including things like menus or other signage. I wondered if she was no longer able to read due to her condition and tried to help by reading for her, not thinking there was much else to be done. I then began learning more about how the brain changes with a dementia diagnosis, and how visual acuity is affected. It occurred to me that my Aunt wasn’t reading because she couldn’t. She wasn’t reading because the newspapers, magazines, menus and other materials weren’t designed for her changing brain. I then quickly set out to find magazines that were created for people living with dementia so I could order them. I came to understand that not only did magazines not exist, but really hardly any reading material at all was available for those with a dementia diagnosis or brain change in general. Read more>>
Sheila Hughes
The mission of Glow Up Counseling is to educate communities through mental health awareness, while normalizing individual treatment and services for persons living with mental illness. I grew up in a small, predominantly African American neighborhood located in northeast Denver, Colorado (Park Hill). The metropolitan area of Denver only consisted of roughly 3% African American population at the time (early 1980’s). The neighborhood was mainly young African American families that had migrated from the south or west in hopes of better job and educational opportunities. 85% of the families were headed by single mothers within the low income bracket. My environment was surrounded by poverty, drugs and eventually gangs; I was unaware at the time, but my life was greatly affected by all 3. Initially, my family consisted of myself, my father, my mother, and older brother. My father developed a drug addiction which resulted in him leaving, my brother became involved in gangs, and my mother dealt with poverty as a result of my father leaving. Read more>>
Catrina Francis
LifeART Wellness Clinic is an alternative wellness clinic specializing in Integrative Frequency Healing, combining Reiki, Sound Healing, Herbalism, Ayurveda, and Functional Medicine. I focus on holistic transformations that encompass the mind, body, and spirit, meeting each individual’s unique needs. My goal is to help people create the life they want. This passion comes from my own journey. I dealt with chronic stress, anxiety, and a sedentary lifestyle that led to issues like obesity, high blood pressure, migraines, and eventually mini-strokes. Medications didn’t help, but diving into Complementary Alternative Medicine (CAM) did. Learning various CAM methods changed my life for the better. Now, I just want to help others find their way to wellness. Read more>>
Oliver Evans
The mission behind KINN is deeply personal: it’s about empowering entrepreneurs to build businesses that don’t just succeed but make a lasting impact on the world. This vision took shape two years ago in April 2022 when I volunteered in Ukraine, just weeks after the Russian invasion. I had recently moved from New York to LA when a friend invited me to join his NGO, a group dedicated to delivering essential supplies to Ukraine’s hardest-hit areas and supporting displaced families. Seeing firsthand what a determined team could accomplish—even amidst devastation—was nothing short of extraordinary. This experience taught me that entrepreneurship could be about so much more than profit; it could be about purpose, service, and creating positive change. That’s what KINN is here to foster. Read more>>
Mars The Star Child
I’m a healer and my dream is to heal people and connect as well as create community. Read more>>
Francisco Vidales
My mission behind what we do with our company “Offstage” can be divided into two categories. The first one is being able to curate events where our crowd feels “at home”, from the music that is being played, to the event design, the community, etc. We believe there is a lack of house music being promoted here in our city, which led us to cultivate our own events focusing around house music. Whether it’s 40 or 4,000 people attending our events, the goal remains the same, to continue to push house music in a city where the dance music scene is not as popular while providing an unforgettable experience to our community. Secondly, we want to put our city at the top of the dance music scene, we want to prove that there is a demand for this here. The way to do that is by brining artists that have never been to Baltimore, throwing events that have never been done. We have been lucky enough to bring some amazing talent to Baltimore, working with them, getting to know them, showing them what Baltimore is about makes our job 100% worth It. This is a process where we’re able to find joy in every step of what we do, from setting up stages, buying artists riders, nonstop promoting, scanning tickets at shows, etc. We love what we do and want that to be reflected to our crowd. Read more>>
Nii Martey Commodore
Thank you so much for having me. I’m thrilled to share a bit about my journey with both photography and event curation because, for me, they’re deeply intertwined. Photography has always been more than just a job—it’s my way of storytelling, capturing genuine moments that showcase people as their most authentic selves. When I’m behind the lens, I’m looking for those raw, real moments that often go unnoticed: a subtle glance, an unexpected laugh, a thoughtful pause. I feel privileged to capture these flashes of realness, because they tell stories that are far more powerful than anything staged. When I began working as a photographer, I noticed how many other creatives felt a bit on the outside, unsure of where to find their people or connect over their art. This inspired me to start Creators Hub an event curation business. At its core, the mission behind my events is to create a safe, inclusive space where creatives feel they belong, a place where they’re celebrated exactly as they are. There’s a specific magic that happens when creatives come together with a shared understanding and openness—they inspire each other, exchange ideas, collaborate, and grow. My events aren’t just about showcasing talent; they’re about creating a supportive community where people feel seen and valued. Read more>>
Jesse Kosierowski
At Jesse K Media, my mission is simple; to inspire others to not just dream, but to dream Big! This simple phrase, “Don’t just dream, dream BIG!”, isn’t just a quote – it’s my guiding compass. It has guided me through the exhilarating highs, the frustrating lows, and the quiet in-betweens on my journey towards my dreams. There have been moments of doubt, but this quote is a fervent reminder to keep chasing the extraordinary and giving all the glory to God. Jesse K Media’s mission was inspired by my allure with the world of entertainment. This passion began at a young age, belting out show tunes in my family’s living room to becoming captivated by red carpet coverage with wide-eyed wonder. This early spark of passion ignited a lifelong love for pop culture, leading me to pursue a career where I could not only be a spectator, but also a storyteller. My background bridges the performer-analyst divide. My experience in the performing arts grants me a unique perspective on the creative process. However, my true passion lies in cultivating connection. I thrive on engaging with artists and storytellers, then translating their experiences and insights into captivating narratives. Read more>>
Katharine Quinn
I fell in love with musical theater as a toddler and Broadway when I was 9. There’s a Nietzsche quote: “We have art in order not to die of the truth.” Theater is an age old tradition. It helps us make sense of the world and bring us together to be present in community in a way that little else does–especially in this digital age. Ironically, I’m finding social media to be a remarkable tool to educate people about what theater is out there right now. Digital leading to in person experiences. Broadway is struggling right now. 9/10 Broadway shows don’t make their money back. Our churn rate of shows is remarkably high. There are seats available at most shows. The costs are enormous and we haven’t kept up with marketing in a digital age. My mission is to bring NEW theatergoers into the space, entertain and serve our current theater lovers, create fan-forward digital Broadway media, and create a healthier Broadway economy. Read more>>
Zachariah Ben
Co-Founders Zachariah and Mary Ben experienced food insecurity during their childhoods, with long distances to access fresh food, dependency on SNAP/WIC and use of processed foods to stretch meals and fill stomachs. When becoming parents during the height of the pandemic, Zach and Mary felt an urgency and responsibility to expand the capacity of their small 4-acre farm in both crop variety and overall production. During their first year of family farming in 2021, they set a goal to harvest and preserve the majority of their crops to feed their firstborn child during his first year of life. Community members saw their efforts and urged them to scale up and share these baby foods with the community. Read more>>
Emily Sereno
At The Servicepreneur Network, our mission is to empower servicepreneurs with the knowledge, strategies, and practical tools they need to build, market, and grow their service-based business, on a budget. When I launched my business, I didn’t have the financial means to outsource every service and had to strategically prioritize the things I knew I couldn’t do (or figure out) myself, like my legal contracts, trademark application, and accounting/financial services. Which meant things like building my website, designing my brand, or setting up email automations, for example, were all things I had to learn and do. I had a steep learning curve, despite being at an advantage working in corporate marketing for over a decade prior, and realized that there are so many other servicepreneurs who need help, but can’t afford it. Read more>>
Ann Merritt
Our mission at You and I Paint Inc. a company founded by duo sisters Ann Merritt and Ban Markos is deeply rooted in the belief that art should be a joyful, accessible, and therapeutic experience for everyone. We strive to create an environment where people can relax, connect, and explore creativity without pressure. Art isn’t about mastering a technique but about finding peace and joy in self-expression, and we’re dedicated to helping people discover that art can be an easy and fulfilling hobby, regardless of their background or experience. Read more>>
Kenya Elliott
My mission began in a place of unimaginable darkness and despair. At 592 pounds, I was bedridden, suffering from a terminal illness, and given just 30 days to live. My body had become a prison, weighed down by years of unresolved trauma and the crushing grip of food addiction. Food had been my escape for as long as I could remember, a means to bury the pain of abuse and the void left by loss. By the time I reached my breaking point, I was on the edge of surrender. My only comfort was the thought that, if I was going to die, I would die with a full stomach. But in that bleak moment, a friend reached out to me, encouraging me to keep fighting. I was so broken that I resisted, refusing to fight any longer. Then, in one quiet moment, something whispered, “Just do it. Just try.” I couldn’t yet believe that there was any hope, but for the simple purpose of having a bit more energy, I listened to that voice. I took a hesitant step toward change, not out of confidence or optimism, but simply because something inside me stirred. Read more>>
Equanna Pearson
As a chef and a philanthropist, I can sometimes understand the pain hiding behind the smiles of those I serve. For many years, I smiled to hide my sadness. As a foster child, I longed to meet my biological mother. I was hesitant to trust, unable to form long-term relationships, and unwilling to open my heart to others. I was plagued by the fear that I would be abandoned or misunderstood. In November 2013, my life underwent a profound transformation—the day I encountered my birth mother for the very first time. After a journey filled with hope and relentless search, my prayers were ultimately answered. As I share my story with those I serve, I want them to realize that pain is not the end of the story. As I grew up, I often observed my adopted family in the kitchen, surrounded by the enticing aroma of Caribbean spices and filled with the joyful laughter of our gatherings. Those moments always brought a smile to my face. Now, as a chef, my goal is to recreate that sense of home for my clients. When they indulge in my culinary creations, I aim to evoke warmth and comfort, making them feel embraced from the inside out. I want their experience to be not just a meal but a moment of genuine joy. Read more>>
Kritbodee Chaicharoen
PREM was founded with a mission of ‘Crafted for Happiness,’ which means creating authentic, meaningful products that bring joy to everyone involved. In Thai, ‘PREM’ means ‘Happiness with Fulfillment,’ and this idea shapes everything we do. We aim to bring joy to our customers by offering unique, high-quality products that enhance daily life. Every piece is crafted using traditional Thai methods, connecting you with the artistry of our culture. We also support Thai artisans by directing a portion of our profits back to their communities, helping preserve their craft and heritage. Lastly, we’re committed to environmental responsibility, using organic materials and fair trade practices to ensure a positive impact on the world. For us, happiness isn’t just a feeling—it’s a way of doing business that uplifts people, culture, and the planet.” Read more>>
Ruth Mckeaney
Our mission is rooted in the idea that we are all “hungry for home” – longing for connection, comfort, and community in a fast-paced world. Homemaking today has become a lost art, but I believe it’s an essential way to make space for who and what matters most. At Hillside Farm, my goal is to create a place where family and friends feel welcomed, cared for, and loved – whether that’s through simple meals, heartfelt conversations, or shared traditions. Hillside Farm is a 307-year-old piece of history, a place that’s seen generations come and go, yet holds a timeless beauty that’s hard to put into words. Every corner of Hillside reflects our desire to foster beauty, connection, and intentional living. For us, creating a home means more than four walls – it means building relationships, savoring life’s simple joys, and embracing each season as it comes. My husband Bob and I have found that even in the chaos of life, there is meaning in slowing down, being present, and investing in the people around us. Read more>>
Tazin Khan
Imagine you’re navigating your day, checking messages, managing emails, browsing for the next great read, or perhaps clicking on a link shared by a friend. Everything feels routine, safe, and then—suddenly—something’s wrong. The screen freezes, a pop-up warns that your data is compromised, your heart races. In an instant, your sense of security is shattered, replaced by a gnawing fear that your online presence has been invaded. You try to regain control, but it’s too late—access to your social media accounts is gone, and your bank balance reflects transfers you never authorized. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a life-altering event. Statistics show that 1 in 4 people will fall victim to cybercrime in their lifetime, and each case leaves a distinct scar, reshaping how people experience their digital lives and personal security. For those affected, cybercrime isn’t just about lost data or finances; it’s about the fear, distrust, and anxiety that linger long after passwords are reset and funds are reimbursed. Read more>>
Alma
I created NSR in the summer of 2018 because I truly loved discovering new music and sharing it with anyone who would listen. As it developed and started gaining traction, I realized that it wasn’t just a passion project anymore – NSR had truly become my life. Having built such a close relationship with the independent artist community and seeing how unbalanced the music industry could be when determining which artists succeeded and don’t, I wanted to build a platform that supported growing artists who’s passions spoke through their amazing music. In both the music magazines and artist development packages, NSR is meant to bridge the gap between artist and viewer. Whether that is connecting with people through their music or translating their brand, NSR is determined to bring support so that every artist has a chance at success. Read more>>
Michele Foss-snowden
Like many of my Generation X peers, I watched a lot of television during my “latchkey kid” afternoons, evenings, and weekends. TV was a companion, a friend, and a teacher. I watched soap operas with my grandmother, science fiction with my mom, and sitcoms with my friends. I sometimes forgot to turn off the TV before I fell asleep; television was my lullaby and my night light. When I went to college and needed to pick a major, I was drawn to areas of study that seemed like they would lead to the fulfilling careers I’d seen on the screen. I considered Political Science and Pre-Law thanks to the influence of Law & Order’s Jack McCoy. I considered Education after being inspired by Mrs. Frizzle from The Magic School Bus. Frasier Crane from Frasier made Psychology seem like a solid choice. I took classes that allowed me to sample each area, but nothing felt like the lightning bolt moment I’d hoped to experience. I was undeclared for so long that I was putting my graduation in jeopardy. Read more>>
Stacy Murray Medcalf
I have been blessed to be a part of founding two non-profit organizations; one with my husband, The God Factor Ministries, Inc., and the other, The Cause, Inc., along with my husband and friends, Lewis and Marcella Harvey. In 2010, I was coming upon the 5th Anniversary of surviving breast cancer. My husband and I, and our friends were on the way to a gospel concert to see Dr. Lonnie Weaver and Genesis and were in discussion about having an event to celebrate that milestone. While discussing things that we could incorporate in the celebration, we began to talk about all of the health issues we all had experienced, as well as our family members. That discussion turned into a four-day event promoting health resource awareness related to all sickness and disease. Healthcare workers, health organizations, physicians, insurance companies, funeral homes, churches, local government, and area businesses joined in our initiative and offered free healthcare screenings, services, information booths and door prizes to bring awareness to the community. Read more>>
Quanasha Starks
Our mission is to bridge the gap between what’s currently offered in educational institutions and what teachers need to support students in today’s world. The mission is deeply meaningful to me because, as a former K-12 teacher, I witnessed firsthand the limitations imposed by traditional education. Teachers, students, and families face unique and evolving needs that a system often isn’t equipped to address fully. While I loved my time in the classroom, I felt constrained by the walls of that system and wanted to make a broader impact. As an example, I wanted to offer professional development that wouldn’t be limited to a few sessions per year or focused solely on teachers in direct contact with students. Everyone involved in education benefits from ongoing growth, a culture that values constructive feedback, and an environment that amplifies the voices of educators. When we build sustained relationships with educators and encourage continual learning and open dialogue, we create a system where everyone—teachers, administrators, support staff—grows together. Read more>>
Danielle Tortorello
It took me a long time to discover my own style. In my late twenties, I began incorporating men’s clothing into my wardrobe, blending it with the women’s pieces I typically wore. The transition was gradual, and even after I stopped wearing feminine clothes altogether, I still reached for a dress at formal events because I didn’t know what else I could wear and still feel presentable. I would try men’s suits on in a size XS but the jackets were too large and the pants too narrow and long. Eventually, I found certain European brands that catered to smaller sizes in men’s clothing, but these options were often expensive and still required tailoring to fit properly. That experience fueled my mission: to create high quality, affordable pieces for women like me who embrace an androgynous style. I wanted to make it easier for women to find clothes that fit their bodies without having to search endlessly for brands or rely on tailoring. Read more>>
Tony Brown
I apologize for the confusion earlier. Let me provide you with an accurate description of “The Cecil: The Journey Begins” and incorporate it into the story behind Genie Interactive Games’ mission. In 2019, Tony founded Genie Interactive Games with a vision to revolutionize the gaming industry. The company set out to create unique and immersive gaming experiences that would captivate players worldwide. Their dedication to innovation and creativity soon led to the development of their debut title, “The Cecil: The Journey Begins.” “The Cecil” is a chilling and suspenseful horror game that keeps players on the edge of their seats. The story follows John and Sarah, a couple who venture to the eerie and mysterious Cecil Hotel for what they hope will be a romantic getaway. However, their dream vacation quickly turns into a nightmare when they fall asleep, and John wakes up locked in a dark cell. As he struggles to find a way out, he realizes that Sarah is missing, and he must find her before it’s too late. Read more>>
Jake Taylor
My mission to focus my business on celebrating LGBTQ marriages specifically has it’s origins in a few key moments throughout my life. In my mid-twenties, I was learning more about myself and started showing up more authentically. It became very clear to me quickly that it was going to be a challenge to continue to honor and express certain parts of myself while working in conventionally professional environments. I wanted to create a space where I could show up every day as my whole self while encouraging others to do the same. During this same time, I read a book called Equally Wed that was written by a queer couple after they’d struggled finding affirming vendors and inspiration planning their own wedding. I’ve worked in events in many different capacities in my adult life and this really felt like a niche I could fill. Why not be a resource and a haven for folks to come when they want to celebrate their love and connect them with like-minded vendors. There are still businesses that won’t work with us. Venues offer “bride and groom” suites when some weddings have two brides or grooms, or sometimes the marriers don’t identify as either! Even though gay marriage is legal, it is still incredibly challenging for queer people to navigate the process of planning a wedding. Read more>>
Jessica Laumeister
Sketch Simply creates art that is accessible to people of all skill levels, making them a great resource for beginners and experienced artists alike! Sketch Simply guarantees that our art is simply fun! The content we provide encourages artists of all ages to continue to improve their art skills. My inspiration for art started when I was young. I loved cartoons and anime. I would spend most of my days drawing Courage the Cowardly Dog, Dragon Ball Z, and many others. I had maybe one art class when I was in middle school but I didn’t have a real art class until I was in high school. I went to an online high school so I still didn’t have a real hands-on instructor but we had printouts that we completed that the teacher graded based on perspective, color theory, and shading. Throughout high school, I became very invested in the gaming industry. From character design, animation, to game glitches, I wanted to know more about the background of game creation and started looking into colleges. I found Full Sail through the many Game Informers I collected and eventually applied for their Game Art program. Read more>>
Taylor Crow
My business’s mission is two-fold. In regard to clients, I aim to empower them by unlocking new pathways of movement in their bodies and to inspire new values behind fitness in their lives. As a woman, and personal trainer, I’ve had many people impose reasons onto me as to “why” I should workout. Most of which have negatively impacted my mental health and relationship with myself. I see this as an opportunity to change the narrative behind women’s fitness. Empowering women to move in order to heal their relationship to their bodies is what gives me purpose as a trainer. Women are expected by society to be submissive, undervalued, and underpaid. As an employer, I pay 90% commissions to all contracted trainers my business employs. I don’t believe in underpricing professional services, and I aim to inspire other female, queer, and minority professionals about the value they bring to the world (and that it deserves to be compensated generously). Read more>>
Latina Mccord
The story behind LaTina’s Style Of Elegance mission is to make every women feel beautiful while providing them with a sense of style no matter what size they are. It’s a meaningful mission to me because I’ve always love the fashion industry every since I was a little girl. Growing up It was very rare to see sexy clothes for all size women especially plus size women. Even back then it was hard to really find cute clothes that were sexy or super cute everything looked the same and for the plus size women it wasn’t really nothing for plus size women to even look forward to. I always told myself if i ever get the opportunity to own my own boutique my style of clothing would be different from the others. Read more>>
David Jemal
At Akkermy, we’re here to make health a journey you can actually enjoy. It all started with a simple belief—that everyone deserves a real shot at better health. On our own wellness journeys, we learned that lasting vitality starts in the gut, which is why we dedicated ourselves to finding natural, effective solutions that make a difference. Fueled by our passion and determination, we created Akkermy—a probiotic that goes beyond the typical promises. Our formula doesn’t just support weight management; it nurtures a healthy, balanced gut, which we believe is the foundation of true wellness. Our mission is personal: to empower you to take control of your health in a way that inspires you, not overwhelms you. By choosing Akkermy, you’re choosing a wellness path that’s proven, purposeful, and fits right into your daily life. And together, we’re building a community focused on health, happiness, and making a positive impact. Read more>>
Suzanne Wallace
I was shot 4 times with AK-47 and leaped from Helicopter just before it was hit with RPG February 22, 2004 while working as a Construction Project Manager building Schools and Clinics in Afghanistan. Multiple surgeries across multiple countries and years of re-habilitation have allowed me to move forward with my life. Of course this ended my career. All my years of College, all those update classes, all those years honing my skills and finally I am earning top dollar. It all ended. What replaced it was devastating. I am not Military so did not have that support behind me. I was a NGO (non government official). PTSD is a nightmare. All Doctor’s really do is drug you. So for 3 years I bounced between the Pain Killer Quacks and trying to heal myself. 2020 Texas Farm Bill opened up the door for Hemp to be grown in Texas. I am one of the first female licensed growers. February this year I closed that part of the operation to focus on making gummies and a sugar you can use to make Hemp Infused edibles and beverages. MOON Sugar is a THCa infused sugar that when heated to 225 degrees or above converts to Delta 9. We are legal, insured, licensed and experience a lot of traction in sales. What we need is exposure. Read more>>
Amber Hedgeman
Growing up I always had a passion for beauty and being able to help others and make a difference. My grandmother Janette discovered my passion at a young age. When she discovered this I was only 10 years old. One day I had cut and pasted paper nails and colored them with nail polish. This creativity was something unique and outstanding to her. My grandmother always motivated me to be great in everything that I do. I gained a lot of knowledge and encouragement and kept moving forward. I knew from that moment on, I wanted to be in the beauty industry in some shape or form. I been creating different styles and techniques with hair and skin care since I was 15 years old. I got into creating hairstyles adding clip on hair extensions and trying out different hair colors. Then I notice I needed to create something for my skin so I started experimenting with ingredients that I had at home. I created a sugar scrub with homemade natural ingredients. The results from using this made my skin smooth and radiant. I kept innovating and researching and coming up with new techniques. I always stayed on top of current trends. Read more>>
Michelle Johnson
It’s not the business that I own that drives me, it’s being a business owner and being an integral part of the community. I didn’t just want to open a store and make money, I want to be a place where everyone feels welcome and we come together to learn, relax and have fun. I am a Filipino-American girl who grew up in a small town in southern West Virginia where everyone knows everyone. It was rare to run out to the store and not see someone who asked how your mom is doing or if my high school basketball team won that game the other night. After leaving that small town nestled in the mountains, seeing familiar faces is something that I missed. Now, I strive to be the place where people can connect and get to know each other. Business ownership has also given me a chance to connect with other business owners and be mentored, whether that was intentional or not, and be a mentor. I find great joy in referring business to a fellow small business owner or linking arms with them to offer a unique experience or opportunity. Read more>>
Victor Del Toro
I’ve always believed that the most extraordinary achievements begin with a single spark—a moment when you look at a problem, a challenge, or a vision, and instead of seeing obstacles, you see opportunity. My journey into Project Management wasn’t a straight line. It wasn’t an obvious choice at first. But it was, without a doubt, the calling that has shaped my purpose and transformed my life. It all started in the early days of my career, when I found myself in the midst of large, disorganized teams, juggling competing priorities and facing constant roadblocks. What struck me most was how the most talented individuals—each with their own expertise—couldn’t seem to align their efforts in a way that drove results. Projects would stall. Deadlines would slip. Morale would plummet. Something needed to change. That was the spark. I realized that Project Management wasn’t just a technical skill—it was a way to harness the power of collaboration, focus, and discipline to create something extraordinary. It was about taking chaos and transforming it into order, strategy, and success. I became obsessed with the idea of leading people not just through a project, but on a journey that empowered them to bring their best selves to the table. Read more>>
Maryam Dimson
At Libertad Co NYC, our mission goes beyond fashion—it’s about empowering individuals to embrace their true selves and fostering a sense of freedom and connection within our community. Growing up, I struggled with self-acceptance, especially around my body image, and I know firsthand how difficult it can be to feel confident in a world that often pushes unrealistic standards. This journey toward self-acceptance was a driving force behind my desire to create a brand where everyone feels liberated and celebrated for their unique beauty. This mission is meaningful because I’ve seen the transformative power that confidence can have on someone’s life. Through Libertad Co NYC, I want to help people find that confidence, no matter who they are or what their journey looks like. I believe that true style is about feeling free to express yourself without judgment, and I want to create a community where people can find that freedom and support each other in the process. Read more>>
Jayson Featherson
The story behind my mission would, be getting people too know Jesus Christ, and what he did on the cross through fashion in clothing. We want to reach people who are lost and blinded. In this world to understand the grace, and love of God that can only found through Jesus.
Sara Silverstein
At Inner Light Aura, our mission is to help people see and embrace their true selves – beyond the surface, beyond the stories they tell themselves and beyond what they may believe the world expects of them. As the founder, I have intentionally created a space where people can connect with the energy that radiates from within, using aura photography as a visual and soulful tool to offer that unique reflection. But the mission is deeper than capturing colors; it’s about empowering people to feel truly seen, to celebrate their unique beauty, and to leave feeling a little more connected to their inner light. I started Inner Light Aura because, like many of us, I spent a lot of my life feeling unseen or misunderstood. We all carry so much within us – our experiences, our dreams, our struggles and that shapes the energy we put out into the world, even if we don’t always notice it ourselves. Read more>>
Rand Taylor
When we started Fuel Ox, we didn’t have a formal mission in mind—just a product and an opportunity. About 12 years ago, I was approached by a friend whose uncle had invented a fuel additive that was primarily used by one huge multi national company and the US Military. At the time, I had no experience with fuel additives; my career had been in Wall Street, trading equities, and in the entertainment industry. Honestly, I wasn’t that interested. But as a favor to my friend, I shared the product with some trucking companies and large-scale farmers I knew. To our surprise, they loved it. They were impressed with the product’s ability to improve fuel efficiency and reduce costs. This unexpected positive feedback made me realize that there was a real demand for fuel solutions that delivered both performance and savings. That’s when my son, Alec, and I decided to start Fuel Ox. Alec had recently graduated from college and, disillusioned with corporate America, was looking for a more meaningful venture. Fuel Ox became that opportunity. Read more>>
Joe Costanzo
Giving families the opportunity to have story time with their child in the Newborn Intensive Care Unit. We gift children’s books to families so parents can feel a sense of normalcy during a difficult period of their lives. Reading to our son Anthony helped us bond with him while in the NICU for 4 months and we hope it does the same for the families currently there. Read more>>
Noelle Alfonso
A few years ago, I had a revelation while attending an event as a vendor for A2 Interior. I noticed a familiar scene: women my age naturally gravitated to my table, often seeking a space to share stories and connect. While the topics and panelists frequently seemed geared toward younger professionals or corporate-focused themes, these women—many of whom had navigated marriage, raised children, and established careers—seemed to crave something different. I heard countless women say, “Thank goodness, someone I can converse with.” It became clear that they longed for a space to be seen and heard and connect with others who understood the unique journey of a seasoned life. I realized there was a need for a meaningful space that honored women’s rich and diverse experiences at every stage of life. This moment sparked the idea for The Female Coterie: a community designed to celebrate every chapter of a woman’s journey, wherever she is and wherever she’s headed. Read more>>