Everyday we meet business owners, professionals, artists and creatives. Photographers, florists, realtors and more. They might come from different backgrounds, work in different industries, have varying personalities, and have vastly different income and educational profiles, but the one thing we’ve seen over and over again is that most people have a unique and special reason for why they do what they do. From a realtor helping families afford the first home he always wished for as a kid to a photographer using her skills to give a voice and face to victims who feel voiceless, we have been blown away by what happens when you just ask people a simple question – why do you do what you do?

Ariana Joy

My mission with my business is to show people that who they naturally are isn’t something to change or overcome in order to get where they want to be; it’s the ticket to getting there. We all operate differently, and that’s never something that’s “better” or “worse,” because there is no true one way to be. Read more>>

Ashley Rock

I don’t usually go this deep in to this. But our mission is to show every woman the beauty of herself. We go through life and things happen. People make comments that hurt, the media shows women who we look nothing like, we get scars, stretch marks, weight gain, weight loss and all of sudden these add up to a lot of insecurities. Or even if we’ve learned to love our bodies we forget to show it off in our busy day to day lives! Read more>>

Maria José Espitia

My mission with Nimbus Ink Beauty is to help women feel beautiful in their own skin while enhancing eyebrows with permanent cosmetics. Overtime many women experience hair loss from over tweezing, age, or other factors like certain medical conditions such as alopecia or going through chemotherapy. As a permanent makeup artist, I specialize in Microblading and Ombre Powder Brows. Read more>>

Annette Bentley Smith

My first inspiration came from my mother who planted the seed to write, but it didn’t germinate until I had my first two children. My son had an incident in daycare where I had to teach him about his race. The incident inspired me to write my first children’s book called “What Color Am I?” From there I published 14 children’s book. Then my granddaughter came along. Read more>>

Pam Scamardo

I took an unconventional jump into real estate. I graduated school with a Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, and worked as an aeronautical engineer at Lockheed Martin, Boeing and United Technologies for over 10 years. As an engineer, I was making good money and steadily climbing the corporate ladder. However, despite the comfortable compensation and technically challenging work, in the back of my mind I desired to have more control over my future, both from a financial point of view and also from an influence perspective. Read more>>

NassPacker

I have had had the chance to explore a little less than 50 counties over four different continents with some as unique as Nicaragua, Ethiopia, Tajikistan, or the Philippines for instance. Each and every one of these experiences provided me with unique and unforgettable memories. From snow-capped mountains to lush jungles, grandiose deserts, or endless plains, our world never ceases to amaze me. Those experiences were such a blessing that I always gladly took the time to share them back. Read more>>

Ansley Van Epps

At Van Epps photography I understand the importance of professional maternity and newborn photos. Having gone through loss infertility and IVF, I know that not everyone’s journey is the same. Each baby is special and precious and I want to provide parents with beautiful memories of those first few weeks with their baby. Also, to be able to empower mothers to show off what their amazing bodies can do. Read more>>

Kimberly Lavon

Thimble Media is on a mission to help artists go from starving to steady and thriving. How I landed here was through a lifetime of creative effort that seemed to go nowhere. From the age of 7 my art was entered into professional competitions. I started my music journey playing the alto saxophone at age 11. I picked up cartoon/comic strip illustration at 14 for my high school newspaper, then hyper realistic graphite drawing. All that lead me to a tattoo artist apprenticeship at 18 then undergraduate college at 24. Read more>>

Jacob Wimsatt

Our mission is to create meaningful places for people to live and work. We wanted to create an architecture firm that uses innovation and creativity to help people achieve their construction goals. We believe intense collaboration, sharing of ideas, and thoughtful action produces architecture people will cherish for generations. Brian and I started our journey fighting the status quo and small-town politics to provide a better design quality that puts user experience, Read more>>

Piggie Andrews

Our mission statement is: To bring back the value of home economics in the community by involving and introducing metropolitan area youth to positive activities, events and cultural awareness. To provide an innovative outlet to the future leaders of our community and inspire them to be substantial leaders of our nation. To coach, train, redirect and guide the youth into making a dream become plan, a plan become an effort, and an effort to become the movement that makes a difference. Read more>>

Claude Hamilton

The mission of Creative Genius Studios® Is to create bold design and have profitable campaigns so my clients can standout in their industry field, service, offer or product. We do this with innovation and strategy. No matter the audience you serve you should your brand should be represented so well that it compels the consumer to forever buy into your brand. Creative Genius Studios® builds brands that bank! Read more>>

Troy Gregory

I would like to start this story by stating a quote… “There are some ideas you think of, and some ideas that come to you” 19 years ago I became homeless when I was emancipated from my family that adopted me, I remained homeless for 15 years. During my time being homeless, I recognized that some of the brightest minds can be discovered in the darkest parts of the world which led to the thought that these bright minds had no platform to share their stories or perspectives. Read more>>

Kelechi Iroegbu

We must be the change we want to see. As we have seen with the untimely deaths of some of our most notable heroes, such as Kobe Bryant and Chadwick Boseman, who not only filled our screens with shock, awe, and wonder, but symbolized determination and excellence, and even our everyday heroes that we have lost, from doctors to nurses, who risked their lives for the lives of those afflicted with COVID-19. Read more>>

Shelbi Chapman

I grew up with my mom hanging crystals in the windows of our home. The rainbows that reflected into the house were magical to watch dance and helped transport you to a playful and peaceful place. My mom and I always had a fascination for decor that twinkles, but didn’t find much of a variety anywhere we searched. That’s when the idea for Sun Catchers by Shelbi was sparked! I set out to create beautiful decor that shines and can be customized to fit everyone’s style, Read more>>

Kaitlin Thompson

Melissa’s Second Chances opening in January 2019 with the singular mission of making Second Chances happen for as many deserving animals as possible. We rescue dogs, cats and small mammals (bunnies, ferrets, guinea pigs and hamsters). Our small but mighty rescue is run mostly by volunteers, myself included. We have one paid full time leader, our director of rescue operations, and several staff who help take care of animals living in our building. Read more>>

Shakera Brinson

Life is So Sincere was conceived in 2018 when I found out I was expecting the arrival of my first born, my (son)shine Sincere. I had a calling early on that I would make a difference in this world. Growing up, I always had an urge to do things with purpose and help others, so over the course of the years I’ve been able to engage in many things. This was different though, I would be giving life to my first born and building a legacy. Read more>>

Aysa Province

Our story began as a fashion show that gave our teen cancer patient friends a chance to shine, feel beautiful and empowered. In 2020 we had 500 guests in attendance and 2021 we were able to broadcast it on network television. We are so proud of how far we have some with our small event that was meant to celebrate teen patients and now include all ages and various diagnoses. Read more>>

Ora Lockett

On my quest for healthy hair alternatives for both me and my family, I realized that there were very few products that contain simple yet natural remedies for growing and maintaining hair. As I researched simplistic ways for maintaining and growing hair, I noticed that the elements of nature was key in aiding hair growth. Thereafter, the Gr8full Company was formed. Each one of our products are created from nature and manufactured for efficiency to yield amazing results. The Gr8full company was produced out of the pure need for simple and holistic virtue. Read more>>

Christal Jordan (Jennings)

I worked as an entertainment publicist for almost twenty years. The opportunity to assist celebrities and entertainers increase their marketability was something I enjoyed and was passionate about. The ability to shape public perception has always intrigued me and I love the science behind public relations, especially when you throw in the caviat of celebrity influence. Read more>>

Saskia Fleurentin

The story behind my mission. To change the narrative and stigma and create generational wealth. Starting my business started off as just a hobby. But I learned very quickly that your hobbies stir from your passion and your passion will motivate you to keep elevating to higher levels. I have 3 businesses. Sassie Sa Entertainment, is a for profit company that host a series of events that allows adults to focus on self care. Read more>>

Lily DuBose

In 2017, Hurricane Harvey hit Houston, Texas and I was 8-years-old. We had lots of tornado warnings and I remember sitting in my closet watching my moms I-pad. While watching the news, I saw many kids having to evacuate their homes because of the flooding and I immediately knew I had to do something. I felt the best thing for me to do was to give away my own toys. My neighborhood flooded so I started giving toys to those kids. Soon after, my friends and family heard about what I was doing and lots of new toys started arriving to our house. Read more>>

Patrice Green

In 2019 as a single mother of a NICU 23week miracle, working in healthcare as a Medication Technician I had this revelation that, “my pain is my purpose.” It came to me that everything I’ve been through up to that time in my life God wanted me to use it. After battling the health scares my son faced and postpartum depression for 3 years. Read more>>

Nathalia Rojas

When I first started Naked Chocolate company was because I needed to create a sweet and funny snack to cope through a tough and toxic breakup. I was in the closet and none of my friends or family knew what I was going through. It was a moment in my life in which I decided to give all of my energy to creativity and delivered a funny real life product that speaks about the different stages of love through exotic flavor chocolates. Read more>>

Juanita Brown

Love is like a breath of fresh air to me. I have always had a passion for helping others find love. There is nothing more exhilarating than knowing I played a part in someone experiencing love. I started Unlocked Hearts Matchmaking Services to not only help people find their soulmates but to also offer dating coach services. I have been very fortunate to have a great success rate with matching and coaching others. Everyone deserves to experience the feeling of true love and happiness. Unlocked Hearts Matchmaking is here to assist in making that happen. Read more>>

Beej Burton

When I was in the early stages of development, the pursuit of the entertainment industry was not something that was particularly supported in my family. No one had experience to be able to properly support me or the dreams that I had to do what I do in this industry. When I started out, I was constantly comparing myself to people who were way more advanced and had far better resources than I was able to provide for myself. All I had was an iPhone 6 and the willingness to learn. Read more>>

Colton Branscum

My mission is to be great; and spread positivity, everywhere, at every opportunity. May it be in my day job as Senior Graphic Designer at Kestra Financial; in my work as Programming Director for AIGA Austin; in my private Design practice as CCV of The Lightbulb Exchange; or in my personal art and collage work under the moniker @ChudaThunkit; I’m here to get things done, and have a great time in the process. Read more>>

Nicole Pompei

As an active duty member of the military, I love the idea of honoring veterans and those who have served before me. I never intended on my business becoming more than a little side hustle, but after going viral in December of 2020, I realized that there are a lot of people in this country that also love their military and love to honor them. I love to say that each wreath tells a story. The amount of stories I get to hear from loved ones, family members, and veterans themselves is amazing. I love sharing their stories on my Facebook page and I think it’s great how my wreaths can continue to honor their service. Read more>>

Andres Gonzalez

VIVA CASA SPIRTIS MIAMI, Created by Andres Gonzalez, founder and owner I´m the owner of 2 gyms, in Coral Gables Fl, since Covid 2021 i experience a lack of clients almost to the point to close the business. Most of my gym clients start to drinking alcohol more frequently. so i started creating new liquor options more healthier and better quality. Read more>>

Media Prince

Honestly the mission is the core of my brand which is shredding light to the talents first, my area beholds and secondly what the world has to offer. I believe greatness does not always have the spotlight shining on them and I thought it was time to bring awareness to great artistry that should be seen, SHOULD BE HEARD! Read more>>

BRIAN RENDON

In 2017, I developed an interest in photography, but never really understood it. Every time I took a photo, I wanted to tell a story. That is my mission. Capturing a true moment in time, that speaks a thousand words. Read more>>

Natasha Kanevski

The mission of my last project, BE BRAVE Art Show, I put together with the curator Dasha Krasota, is to present to the American public young, touching artworks created by contemporary Ukrainian artists during the ongoing war to demonstrate the spirit of the Ukrainian people in their battle for independence. Our primary purpose is to talk to Americans using visual language about what this means and how it feels to be brave during the war. Read more>>

Courtney Taylor

Courtney Taylor and Chelsea Gheesling started Bundled with the goal to support local makers, create an inclusive work environment, and spread kindness through the art of gifting. Each product and vendor we work with is carefully selected by us and each bundle is hand packed by our team of adults with disabilities. Read more>>

Katie Fox

I first sat down in front of a pottery wheel in 2017. I had been going through a lot of life changes and feeling scattered. A friend of mine who owns a pottery business invited me over one morning and just said, sit down. She handed me some clay and showed me how to center it. For those of you who don’t work with Clay, this can be the most challenging step in pottery, centering. I went for it- I fell in love with the process that day. Read more>>

Saige Thomas

Geisa Haus was formed to provide fashion designers & retailers a one-stop-shop service for all of their fashion show and media needs. The team at Geisa Haus is made up of fashion show producers, photographers, website developers, and a fashion videographer. Read more>>

Dr. Pamela Gurley

There are a lot of things I have done in my life that have led me to where I am, what I do, and the impact I want to make. Not all I chose, yet I am extremely grateful God chose me. When I resigned from federal employment, it was the scariest awakening of my life. Nothing wakes you up the way purpose does, and everything meant will suddenly fall into place. For me, it was my Brown Girl and Brown Boy children’s book series and Kid’s Red Carpet Book Tour. When it manifested, God gave me the vision and provision for them. Read more>>

Dezra Robitson

As a African American Woman who is also a business owner, I realize the odds that are stacked against me daily. However, everyday that I’m able to do what I love to do, promote my culture and art, and provide for my family means the absolute most to me. I realize what my destiny and calling in this life is meant to be and I plan on doing what God has put me on this earth to do and do it to the fullest. I realize that this business is bigger than me. Read more>>

Jarrid Williams

My mission is to redistribute wealth back in the hands that never received reparations. For years my melanated people have been ostracized, exploited, and capitalized on for the benefit of major corporations. I created a platform where majority of small minority owned business owners will receive majority of profit sold on my website. I want to highlight their stories and share with the world. I want influence my people to create generational wealth so that the last shall be first and the first shall be last. Read more>>

John Lewis

My mission is to help people feel empowered and take their health into their own hands. My mother was diagnosed with Colon Cancer. My first thought was that it had to be hereditary, but after talking to the doctors and following that with my own research I came to find out that while genetics is at places with many of the diseases… what we eat feeds those genetics. The more and more research I connected the more I saw that it wasn’t just cancers but heart disease, hypertension, and many more. Read more>>

Shatara Clark

In 2016 I wrote a book. I always knew I wanted to be an author and I could write, but I knew it would take funds in order to publish. Funds to dedicate solely to publishing were few and far between. As I continued to research and inquire to individuals who were publishing books and publishing companies, I was rendering very little results. I continued to search for options and was becoming depressed by the day. Read more>>

Charles Woods

Growing up, my family was economically disadvantaged. I knew what struggling meant and how it felt to not be privy to the essentials needed to survive. There was a constant effort by so many people to support me as I moved through my childhood and public education. The love that I was shown had a huge impact on my life and the individual steps that I took to accomplish my goals. My first career of choice was to be an engineer. I wanted to have a career that made a lot of money. Read more>>