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?

Jennifer Patterson

Since I started my consulting business in January 2021, people have asked me about my tagline, putting people first. This mantra developed early in my career when I saw other leaders only talking about sales, metrics, and what employees were doing wrong. I learned very quickly that focusing on the individual employee and taking time to understand their goals and how to motivate them drove sales immensely. Read more>>

Jen Goodall

Clary Collection was born out of the connection we found during the pregnancies and births of our children – two souls who changed everything about how we experience life and see the world. Our transition into motherhood sparked many changes in us, including a new awareness of the value of clean skincare products for ourselves and our families. Read more>>

Wes Watkins

The story behind my mission is just never giving up to accomplish a goal. I am a Musician, Author and Entrepreneur who loves to motivate and encourage people any chance I get. There has been hard work put into everything I have and a consistent work ethic even when I wanted to give up. Being a drummer in the music industry can very tough at times. There are so many amazing drummers who can do exactly what you do and possibly do it on another level. Read more>>

Chundrayvia Gill

Hi , I’m Chundrayvia Gill . I’m a Personal Fashion Stylist that has changed the lives of many women by guiding and helping them create a style that is comfortable and unique to them , Making it easy for them to show up with confidence and boldness. Letting them know it’s okay to be The Effect in the room . The CG Effect was established in February 2020 . Where I started working on becoming a certified lash tech and then I soon push to open up my very first online boutique. Read more>>

Jashaun Carter

Growing up where I’m from in Savannah, Ga it was never easy. As a black male the two main options you are presented as a child are sports or the streets, one of the toughest battles to fight when there’s no guidance. I was always quiet and observant as a child which were great traits to have because I always had a thought process behind every decision I made and it helped me overcome all the obstacles that were in my way growing up. One of the biggest things that can really discourage you and change direction in your life is FAILURE. Read more>>

Jenifer Zygmond

Forming a business with a primary focus on funding a non-profit: The question was how to fully fund a non-profit with very little start up funding, extremely little overhead, close to zero operating expenses, never planning a fundraiser and never asking for a donation? The answer was launching the business Red White, Bubbly & Brew, LLC and exceeding the non-profit funding goal within a year. It all started while enjoying a glass of wine, a Southern evening and a comfortable porch listening to my children play. Read more>>

Holly Schwab

I started this organization after my oldest son, Zachary, went through cancer in 2008. Zach had a form of childhood cancer called Neuroblastoma. We were very fortunate to catch Zach cancer during a sick visit to his pediatrician. He had not had any symptoms of pain, but merely the sniffles. Zachary was just shy of 10 months old when we were given this devastating news. He went through a very hard surgery on March 4, 2008 to try and remove his tumor – but the surgeons could not remove it because of its size and location. Read more>>

Wesley Earp

My mission is to help people take control of their personal and business finances! I created WEInvested to help my community learn more about financial literacy and building a business. I’ve always been interested in money since I was a kid. I started saving money at an early age because I saw that money could buy you the things that you want. My father showed me how to earn money at an early age. Read more>>

Courtney White

well , growing up as a young mother in my teens I felt like I wanted to hurry and find something to do in life to benefit me and my kid so I graduated high school a year early which gave me time to be a mom and think on my future .Therefore, within that year and some months I notice I always changed my daughter hair alot or mine or family members and would get many good feedback which led me to believe It was Something I enjoy . I participated in my first lace installation class in 2020 with Tierra Nicole Polite and went to cosmetology a month later and It’s like I have been unstoppable since . Read more>>

Allen Brokken

If you’ve only met me professionally, you might not know I’m a husband and father of three. Early in our careers, my wife and I decided that one of us would stay home to care for our children. When our daughter was born in 2000, who would stay home became a simple math problem. My position was in IT, and my salary had a higher earning potential. So, I became the breadwinner. Read more>>

Jeremy Johnson

Growing up in rural Manitoba on the family farm, our radio was always turned on. In the kitchen, on the tractor, in the truck and shop, country music blasted through the fuzzy speakers around our life. When it came time to go to town, the same music played across the small town stages at dances, the town fair, rodeos, and school concerts alike. Read more>>

Lynn Abaté-Johnson

Out of my experience caring for my mom when she was diagnosed with stage IIIC ovarian cancer, i learned how to care for myself as well. And in fact, I’m learning to thrive, as my mom would have wanted me to. After years of being a family caregiver, through the final day of my mom’s life, I have been learning how to transform my life through my grief and my own personal leadership journey. Read more>>

Amber Love

As a current mother, minister, educator, self-published author, and business owner, I faced many challenging obstacles that tried to limit me from succeeding in life. However, through the love of Jesus Christ, I overcame those challenges. I’ve become a self-published author of “Soar Beyond Your Limiting Thoughts and Emotions,”and “Kingdom Demonstrator.” With this victory, I have missioned to share the gospel of Jesus Christ and write books to encourage others to soar beyond any circumstance that may appear limiting to them. In Christ Jesus, nothing is impossible! Read more>>

Cayley Humphreys

With the power that social media holds in the digital landscape, it’s getting increasingly harder for brands to stand out. At Jive PR + Digital, we are on a mission to leverage the established trust between influencers and their audience to share our clients’ stories with potential customers. We strategically pair our clients with the perfect partners to represent their brand in a genuine way. Through real people and authentic content, we help brands gain loyalty and drive more sales. Read more>>

Tavia and Tamika Wimby

Our mission is to show the world that women can be successful in the freight transportation industry. We are a women owned freight brokerage that provides customers with trust, transparency and tranquility. We are one of very few companies in this industry that is women owned and minority owned. We want the world to know that women can tap into a male dominated industry and be very successful in that industry. Read more>>

Corey Bell

Corey Bell Ministries was organized to help facilitate change in the earth through the lives of individuals who walk and live in supernatural freedom. We believe our greatest commission is that of the Great Commission, minister to the lost and forgotten, inspiring them to move toward and in purpose. Read more>>

Jeffrey Wachman

Coming from a very poor family and having gone through some rough times I like to show people that it’s possible to become successful and overcome all of these things. Read more>>

Ashley Schneider

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the villain in my life’s story. My mother was diagnosed with the disease in 1980, four years before I was born, so it is the backdrop in which I learned of who my mother was and also the twists and pain that life can bring. My parents managed the disease symptoms as best they could, and because of my mother’s determination and spirit, the more debilitating ones remained at bay for quite some time, but still, over time, it eroded away pieces of her and the best we could do was witness the changes and care for each other (I have three siblings) as best we could. Read more>>

Rhonda Favor

My name is Rhonda Favor! I am a wedding photographer and I’ve been in the industry for 17 years. I own Rhonda Favor Studios, which specializes in wedding photography. I believe that every couple is unique and each story deserves to be captured in a beautiful and creative way. Years down the road we want our couples to come back to their photos, relive their wedding day and share their amazing journey with generations of loved ones. Read more>>

Ian Joseph

I want people who shop with me to be able to count on me for any of their clothing needs. I am so passionate about 2nd hand clothing that I almost feel like it’s my duty to help my customers get exactly what they need. With that being said, of course for a fair price because I know what it feels like to be ripped off as a consumer and thats not a good feeling… I also want to create an environment that is welcoming to those new to vintage clothing, I want people to experience the joy and endless learning I experience when finding things. Read more>>

Katie Mollison

I’m a professional dancer and photographer based in NYC. As a dancer, I wanted to provide a space and experience for other artists to be able to explore themselves in new and authentic ways. Collaboration and communication are essential to my sessions; these allow you to explore a space without set rules or expectations, but I can still provide specific insight as a fellow dancer in this industry. Read more>>

Jennifer Mason

How single lady notes came about is quite interesting. I’ve always talked about love and relationships on my social media platforms and I always felt as if people that knew me were judging me. So one night after experiencing disappointment from a dating situation I decided that I was going to create a space on Instagram where I was going to vent. So the name Singleladynotes came about I created an Instagram page a short landing page and I got started venting lol. Little did I know that there were hundreds of thousands of women who felt the same way in here we are today continuance to grow as God would allow. Read more>>

Carmen Knight

The story behind my life mission is simple – it stems from one quote that has been life-changing for me, “Be who you needed when you were younger”. I am reminded of the importance of paying it forward. Along my journey, I have had help and would be remiss if I didn’t help others. Read more>>

Courtney Manker

As a business owner one of the most important questions you should ask yourself is “how are you helping your customers solve a problem”. Initially, I was creating turbans just for myself. It was important to create a turban that was versatile – one turban that solved all of my problems. After sewing the first turban all my problems were solved: it has ample amount of stretch to securely protect my hair no matter the style (braids, afro, straight etc), Read more>>

Didier Nicholas

Our SCC Mission was established with an emphasis to provide seniors with one-on-one technology training and tech services, where we would “come to them”. Teaching them what they wanted to know, in the comfort of their own home-environment, on their own device(s); at an affordable cost. Read more>>

Meiko Harris

I wanted to create a place for my Witchy side to provide guidance and products for others who love the craft and mysticism. I have been reading tarot cards since I was in elementary school. I was drawn to the call of this path from early. I wanted to connect more people like myself who wanted a place they felt they belonged. This is how Moonlight Readings was born. I am located in Brooklyn NY. I offer online classes and in person meet ups to discuss magicks, occult, spirituality. Read more>>

STEVEN BANKS

My mission is evolving. I used to focus on music and used education as a means to an end. It was a good, safe profession. But, as I’ve grown both as an artist and educator, I realize they go together for me, I am both. The impact that can be had by working closely with the communities and students are priceless. I also, would not be the artist I am if it was not for the experiences I have had in education. Read more>>

Grella Lichorobiec

Kela’s Boutique is a full boutique on wheels that carries the latest fashion for all body types. Each piece in our collection has been hand pick with care to deliver trendy, casual, stylish, and sexy quality apparel at affordable prices. We love to have the opportunity to come to our customers and give them that one on one they deserve. It’s no secret that our mission is to make women of all shapes and sizes feel beautiful and comfortable in their own skin in one of our outfits. Read more>>

Jeriesha Crutchfield

My vision for Snapped Luxury Press On Nails is to complete the look without breaking the bank. Convenience and affordability is a plus, but quality and great customer service is definitely a must. These beautiful hand crafted artificial nails are made with hard working women in mind. Women who need style and luxury at an affordable price can count on Snapped Luxury Press On Nails. Read more>>

Carly Starnes

Being an artist, I always look at the world in an illustrious way. When I was first handed a camera at age 8 from my dad, it was all over from there. I knew that my passion was putting a light on other people, whether that be in the name of beauty or to share a story. Photography has so many different purposes, and it is up to the viewer and the artist to determine what path to take. Read more>>

RAWAN ABUSAID

As a designer and creative in general, my mission is to inspire others through spaces and photographs. My career as a designer started with a vision of creating futuristic spaces that brings joy to others. I started to explore photography in 2014 when I found Nature and its details became my inspiration outside of the design world and started to incorporate photographs into ceiling design elements. Read more>>

Alpone Da Producer

We believe that everyone deserves a fair shot in the industry without have to break the bank for quality. We provide industry grade work at a fraction of the cost to give everyone a head start in their direction of their dreams and aspirations. We cut costs and made it affordable for individuals to create their vision of success more obtainable on a global level. Read more>>

Thomas Garner IV

A struggling father trying to made ends meet. Living in poverty in the heart of Cleveland, Oh. Where I come from it’s a lot of drugs gang violence the men here struggle daily to survive. I did not want the street life for myself so I worked a 9-5. 2019 came and the pandemic hit I lost my job and home. I bounced around staying at friends and family sometimes in my car just to avoid being a hassle to others. I meet a friend who became my mentor joined a non profit organization called S.T.E.P.S . Read more>>

VickKnew Zeus

Creating my manga ( Project Bruja) came from the cries of women/black women begging to see more stories of women as the protagonist taking the role of a witch or any mythical creatures. I fell in love with that ideal and created my main character Oni who is a witch. But to tell the right story, I had to make sure it was simple and easy for manga fans to get into. Read more>>

Jacquelyn Ochoa

My story began ten years ago; I was in the midst of postpartum depression after having my second baby. I was on hormonal birth control for fear of getting pregnant a third time, and to say I was struggling would be an understatement. I was at an all-time low. After months of feeling awful, I was underweight, exhausted, and emotionally broken. When I finally sought help, I realized I needed to change. Read more>>

Nicole Bernier

Th story behind my mission is simple. I absolutely love what I do and I enjoy helping people. I started my business in the middle of the pandemic. I wanted to feed people and make their lives easier, it was already hard and the pandemic just crushed so many. I started by doing premade meals that you just heat and eat. I use local produce as much as possible to help out the local farmers. I wanted to make it easy and delicious for people to feed themselves and their families. It might not have been how I originally planned on starting my own business but it was what was needed at the time and it has been so rewarding. Read more>>

Tania Moore-Lovett

The Story Behind my mission is that I realized that the pain I suffered in my life had a purpose. The Mission is to bring hope and joy into a world that is so chaotic and confusing to most. I was raised by my grandparents never understanding why my mother did not want me. Feeling rejected and misunderstood I looked for love in all the wrong places and ended up more wounded and desolate than I started. Read more>>

Ashley Goods

#ILoveMyBusy Is not something I say it’s something I feel!!! Me being a person who specializes in dreadlocs and natural styles I have found that it is my happy place. I love taking someone’s crown and polishing it to their liking and make them come back and walk away knowing AKstyles will get me right every time. I am known for my neatness my professionalism my personable behavior and just all-around a person you can count on!!! Read more>>

Tim Stafford

I started Revolution Fight and Fitness when several coaches and myself were unhappy at a gym that had a poor culture with a lot of drama. We decided we would start a gym minus all of the things that we disliked about the situation we were all in. When we finally opened we had a great base of fighters that had joined us and when the word got out about the unified culture we established many more followed. Read more>>

Jess Peacock

My great-grandparents bought the property to serve as both housing and retail. If you ask my dad, I have always wanted to work in a grocery store. Neighborhood retail is woven into the fabric on communities, especially communities of color. Reopening the grocery store stems from a legacy of being good neighbors. Read more>>

Lara Darwish

At a not very young age, I hit rock bottom. I had lost everything that had given meaning to my life up until then and I was devastated. Owing it to my resilience and my unwavering belief is life, love, and above all myself, I picked up my pieces and moved forward, continued forming myself as a profesional and developing my best self! Read more>>