We asked some very thoughtful members of our community to reflect on what they’ve learned from their heroes.

Ashley Mitchell

Every since I was little, I have always had a fascination with Walt Disney. I was born and raised just 20 minutes down the freeway from Disneyland, so Disneyland and the Walt Disney Company have always been a big part of my life. I homeschooled and did online school for most of my elementary and high school education, so I had a super flexible schedule. This lead to the ability to be at Disneyland with my mom and older brother quite often during the school week, spending time together and enjoying exactly what Walt Disney had in mind when he was creating the park – a place where children and their parents could equally enjoy an activity together. I have always had an entrepreneurial personality, which lead me to have numerous little “businesses” when I was a kid. I sold homemade snickerdoodle cookies to kids walking home from school, had Fruit Loop necklace stands, sold my Halloween candy, had a custom slime business, and more all before I turned 12 years old. Read more>>

John Bowen

I acquired several watercolor painters as heroes shortly after starting my journey as a watercolorist myself. John Pike, Ted Katusky and Ludlow Thurston (my high school art teacher) really inspired me with their talent and knowledge of the watercolor field! They opened the door for me and their work encouraged me to keep at it every day! My high school teacher introduced me to watercolor and even after graduation invited me to paint with him up until I went into the service.. 8 years as illustrator for Air Force honing my drawing and painting skills! In 1970 l worked in newspaper advertising art as a commercial artist illustrator for the next 40 years. During that time I also did outdoor art shows displaying my watercolor paintings around the country. Read more>>

Ishmael Auguiste

My hero would definitely be my mom, she’s taught me a lot throughout the years giving me lessons on life that I then Implemented to become the man I am today. My mother is the strongest woman I know, she raised me and my younger brother on her own and she did a pretty good job doing so. She taught me how to manage businesses, take care of myself and the people around me, how to treat women and most of all how to be a man. Read more>>

Eric Ruiter

Wim Hof (the iceman). He was the guinea pig for all the research and studies that have come out, showing how cold water therapy and breathwork can save so many lives like it did mine. I was in a very dark place in my life where my whole day was filled with back pain and I didn’t think I had a way out of it. Read more>>

Nora Tapia

My hero’s are Veronika Castillo and Monica Lopez. A mother and daughter who came across my path in 2018 and forever changed my perspective on life, how I am as a mother, and as a business owner. When I first heard Monicas story about how much she has overcame, it made me feel hopeful. As a single mother of two, I had no idea what my life would entail. Monica has been such an inspiration to me just by displaying such grit, optimism, and loyalty, to herself, her children, and her friends. I have never met anyone more hardworking and disciplined. Read more>>

Bummi Anderson

My daddy, Edward Anderson, is my first hero. He’s my hero because of his work in the Civil Rights Movement. He left his mother’s house at 16 or 17 to fight for civil rights and racial equality in America. He marched, was arrested, and risked his life. Read more>>

Brooke Donoley

One of my biggest inspirations for starting and running my own business is my dad. He started his business in his early 20’s and is still successfully running it over 25 years later. He’s taught me how to be smart with money, how to run a successful business and be your own boss, and has always been there for me when I have business questions. I’ve also learned very quickly that not only am I investing money into my business, but my time is an investment itself. My dad has always told me that whatever I decide to do, make sure it is something I am truly passionate about, and I will never “work” a day in my life. Two things that have remained constant in my dad’s business over the last 25 years is support from my mom, and always relying on God during tough times, and thanking God during the good times. Read more>>

Sherice Sheppard

He said” One of the most solid people I’ve ever met honestly” about me and it’s no coincidence I feel the same way about him. We met a few years ago and he’s been behind the scenes in my corner ever since. I have never met anyone like him. He’s such a phenomenal person with great character. I remember when I met him I was so nervous, because he’s a big deal, but that quickly went away because he was so humble and laid back. I can talk to him about any and every thing because he makes me feel so comfortable. He amazes me every time he speaks because he’s so smart and knowledgeable. Read more>>

Zavier Russell

My hero’s are my father and mother Donald and Camille Russell. Donald served as a Deputy at Palm Beach County Sherriff’s office. In fact he was the first African American male to become a officer their. He passed away last year July sadly. He is my hero because, for the last 20 years my father was a dialysis patient, which means he needed a kidney transplant. He endured many more things health wise amputations included. Through it all he fought a hard fight and never gave up. He was as funny and charismatic as ever. He taught me to never give up. Chase my dreams and always keep God first. My mother camille the strongest and kindest woman I know has taken care of my father through it all and for the heart she has, she deserves the world and more. Read more>>