ATL’s Most Inspiring Stories

The heart of our mission is to find the amazing souls that breathe life into our communities. In the recent weeks, we’ve had the privilege to connect with some incredible artists, creatives, entrepreneurs and rabble rousers and we can’t begin to express how impressed we are with the incredible group below. Check out our favorite stories from across the Voyage family.

Anne – Marie Coleman

My journey with The Bunny Hive Roswell is equal parts serendipity and purpose. I officially became the owner on May 1, 2025, but my connection to the space and its mission began long before that—as a parent. I was first introduced to The Bunny Hive as a mom looking for meaningful, enriching, and community-focused experiences for my young son, Myles. What I found was a beautiful space where creativity, early learning, and parent-child bonding flourished—and I immediately fell in love. Read more>>

James Jr.

Plain and simple, I’m where I am because of God. Every trial, every tribulation, every blessing, every lesson, everything…. I had parts of my life where I fell off my path of righteousness and Satan tried to take control, and although Satan was very close, he never succeeded. God wouldn’t let him win. So for that, I switched up my whole lifestyle. Everything I do now is through Christ, FOR Christ. I wouldn’t be who I am right now without Jesus. Read more>>

Isaiah Bowe

I started my small business of designing shoes at the age of 11 while growing up in Queens, New York and continued when I moved down to Atlanta. My business really didn’t start getting recognized until I continued designing sneakers for my past highschool classmates here in Georgia. Now I am 27 years old and still growing my business while also being an professional artist for a shoe company called Sneakerdoodle.co of Atlanta and I help teach customers and painters to create their own personal custom sneakers and I very much enjoy what I do and will grow even more in the future. Read more>>

Phillip Cooper

time shot by as if I was in a time machine before i knew it i went from stealing bikes then cars then on Drugs wrong choices landed me in jails and institutions with my fourth time in the joint on my 5th year with 5 more years to go my cellmate ask me what was i going to do when i get out i said open up a program called Teenz on Point to teach the youth trades and skills to give them more opportunities for they want end up in the grave yard or jail. Read more>>

Kye Park

I was never a straight-A student growing up. What really sparked my interest was anything creative—producing music, making short home videos with friends, just exploring ideas and storytelling in different forms. That eventually led me to pursue a degree in music engineering. But once I graduated, I realized how difficult it was to really build a sustainable career in that field. Around the same time, our small family business was slowly declining, which pushed me to think more seriously about my future. Read more>>

Kaiya Hamilton

I started singing in church when I was young. I’ve always had a voice, but I was shy. I didn’t like attention, and for a long time I wasn’t sure if singing was something I actually wanted to do or just something I happened to be good at. But over time, I realized I couldn’t ignore it. By the time I was 16 or 17, music became serious for me. I started writing more, paying attention to my sound, and really trying to figure out who I was as an artist. Read more>>

Kris Cahill

I’ve been a creative and an artist my whole life, and feel quite fortunate in my choice of parents, as they were both creative. My dad was an engineer and inventor, my mom an artist her whole life, and my siblings and I were encouraged to make things since we were very young. We did art and crafts at home, and learned how to make fun things together. As a young person I had art tools, classes and permission to explore, which helped me follow my creative interests. My grandma gave me a beginner’s sewing machine when I was 9, and I had sewing lessons that year too. Read more>>

Jane Little

But before we get there, I went through many transitions in my art medium and art style. There were many failures but also many successes. Many projects I was proud to show off to friends and classmates, and occasionally family, but many that I found embarrassingly bad. I was always someone who drew with pencil (or graphite), but I began to learn acrylic and digital painting initially. While digital painting is such an excellent tool, I found myself drawn to traditional means of making art. Read more>>

Nina Sperry

Definitely not. Healing isn’t linear, and neither is building a soul-led business. There were so many moments of doubt, especially when I first walked away from the structure and safety of corporate life. I’ve had to (and still do) unravel years of conditioning around success, productivity, and worthiness. Read more>>

$uga OTB

I’ve dealt with near eviction, wrongful job termination, and I had to hustle just to make it through — Ubering, plasma, selling clothes, taking clientele for makeup, grinding, and doing whatever I had to do to survive while still chasing my dreams and not compromising my morals and values. There were times I didn’t know how I was going to make it, but every obstacle forced me to grow in ways I never imagined. It tested me, stretched me, and honestly prepared me for what God is preparing for me. Read more>>

Nancy Shippen Livengood

Once I returned to Atlanta, I began working in private practice in both objects conservation and art. I conserved artwork at the Tubman Museum in Macon, archaeological objects for the National Parks Service in Tallahassee, FL, historical objects for the Atlanta History Center, and historical puppets at the Center for Puppetry Arts. In 2016 I joined the team to move the Battle of Atlanta Cyclorama (panoramic painting) from Grant Park to the Atlanta History Center, cleaning the painting, filling and inpainting the landscape, completed in 2018. That same year I joined the Fulton County Department of Arts and Culture as their Public Art Conservator. Read more>>

For Film’s Sake

At the end of the semester, For Film’s Sake hosts an annual premiere event called the FOscars (fake Oscars). At this event, we premiere the short films made within the previous two semesters and then end the night with an award ceremony that celebrates student achievements and accomplishments. The officer team (comprised of students) lead the club to facilitate an inclusive and creative environment that allows students to hone their abilities and network with each other and form connections and friendships that last after their time at KSU. Through For Film’s Sake, club members have been brought onto other short films, including SCAD capstones and student productions, and allowed internship or PA opportunities with local studios. Read more>>

Jesi Hooper

From there, Nerdy Retreat was born. Eventually, my Instagram became less about rentals & more about realness. I started to share my favorite spots, my journey, some random obsessions (anime, my dogs, & lemon pepper wet wings, obviously). People connected. Not just with what I posted, but with how I made them feel — seen, safe, & inspired. Read more>>

Heather Smith

All along the way, I kept freelancing on the side. It kept me sharp and gave me the chance to work with all sorts of clients. I decided at the end of 2019 to take a leap and launch Rooted Design so I could be around more for my kids. I officially launched Rotoed Design in January 2020 with the idea of working with churches but when Covid hit in 2020, everything shifted and I changed my focus from churches to working with mostly service-based businesses. Read more>>

Swati Starseed

My life purpose and mission are fueled by the journey of my SOUL. Remember my love, in our shadows lie our deepest Powers…. My work is focused around EMPOWERING SOULS so they never feel stuck. We are never really stuck in life! If we cannot come up with a physical solution, then we have to know and believe that there is a spiritual solution for everything. My sharing is Authentic, Powerful and Compassionate. Read more>>

Malori Doxsee

I wished for an option like that in our area. After the birth of our second child and some changes to my previous Director role, I found myself being a stay at home parent trying to figure out what was next for our family. I started to look around at commercial properties in the area and one day our building appeared as a new option for my search and I immediately reached out to the landlord. Since then, we’ve continued to keep the ball rolling and are anxious and excited for Rise to open this August for the 25-26 school year. Read more>>

Syd Parker

After just a few months of being the shop manager I decided I was not going back to the 9-5 life if I could help it because of how much I enjoyed it! As the shop became more established and I broadened my horizons a bit, I mentioned the idea of becoming a piercing apprentice under them; we were growing our clientele in the area and did not have a piercer, so it was worth a shot! I really wanted something to get passionate about. I knew that apprenticeships were hard to find, especially proper ones, so bringing up this idea was a bit nerve-wracking. Oh, but I’m so glad I did! Read more>>

Elizabeth Hope Brown

Born in the big city of Homerville, GA Elizabeth Hope Brown is the founder of Lyzee’s Hope non-profit #BuildingHealthyFamilies, current Career Service Advisor at a local college, previous Resident Services Director at the East Georgia Housing Authority, prior to a Social Worker at The Medical College of Georgia of Augusta University Department of Psychiatry & Health Behavior. She is an experienced director, supervisor, trainer, teacher, mentor, coach, traveling presenter, and certified Master Life Coach. Read more>>

Lianna Mazing

Because singing lessons weren’t exactly in the budget for my family, I was largely self-trained. RnB has always been a major musical inspiration; artists like Keyshia Cole, Alicia Keys, Whitney Houston, and Beyonce were my teachers. I used to choose songs that would challenge me vocally, and spend weeks dedicated to mastering it – every word, note, and run – before I went back through and added my own personal style. That’s how I learned to sing the way I do and how I learn songs to this day – practice, every single day. In addition to self training, I learned the basics from church and school choir, summer musicals, and practicing with my sisters, nieces, and cousins. Read more>>

Brittney Kilgore

I’d always wanted to be a practice owner, but with her buying so soon I never imagined the opportunity at Cat Care would be mine. She’d hired a new doctor just 6 months before I graduated, so once I graduated, I took a job elsewhere in Atlanta. Just eight months after graduation she gave me the news that she was thinking of selling the clinic. I was the first person she asked and of course, I said yes! For the first half of 2024, there was the entire process of learning business management, finance, and more as the buyout process began. By the end of August I was officially the owner of Cat Care. Read more>>

Keldren Reddick

Shortly after, I began taking formal lessons and eventually went on to study music and business at Clayton State University. There, I performed with both the Clayton State University Orchestra and the Southern Crescent Symphony Orchestra, while also playing for various events across campus. That momentum eventually led me into Atlanta’s live music scene, where I’ve been able to network with some amazing artists and grow through opportunities that have shaped me as both a performer and an artist. Read more>>

Lavotia Mckenzie

Now, as both a credit coach and a licensed realtor in Georgia and Florida, I offer my clients a powerful two-for-one. I guide them through improving their credit while also walking them through the entire homebuying process from start to finish. My background in service-based industries like healthcare gave me the foundation to lead with heart, and my transition into entrepreneurship gave me the freedom to make a bigger impact. Read more>>

Justin & TracyAnn Johnson

With over 10 years of healthcare experience, beginning with my training as an Aerospace Medical Technician in the United States Air Force, I’ve had the privilege of working in diverse healthcare environments. My background spans roles as a Medic, Orthopedic Technician, Athletic Trainer, and Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Coordinator. Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to work with individuals of all ages and stages, from infants and children to postpartum clients and the elderly. Read more>>

Zak (Thready) Threadgill

Going out on weekends wasn’t fun because my knee was healing so I needed a distraction. I ended up getting my own copy of Reason to try beat making and fell in love with it. I found freedom again. When I entered my flow state the world would disappear along with any depression or stress I was feeling. Very quickly I realized my passion for music could lead to a career and I focused on learning as much as I could from that point on. Read more>>

Brittany Smith

He believed in me and my vision and helped me get out there to the people and my food in a lot of bellies. I’ve traveled from Georgia and South Carolina and have a good following. Also selling out whenever I would set up in either place. Most of the places I’ve ever been employed also have to do with catering or cooking of some sort so my passion for it is real. I’ve done some front of the house and some back at the house and just really enjoy it. and now I’m literally known as the taco lady.. Read more>>

Zack Spade

I’ve dealt with industry folks who didn’t believe in me, fake friends who disappeared when things got tough, and personal battles that nearly broke me. But every setback just added fuel to my fire. I channel all of it into my music—every pain, every doubt, every ounce of pressure. That’s why my songs hit different. I’m not chasing trends—I’m telling my story, and I’m still here, standing tall, because I never stopped betting on myself. Read more>>

Marlin (Mo) Lynch III

Marlin is also a National Recruiter for Student-Athletes. And has his own business called 5th Quarter Sports Agency. In addition to his full-time work, Marlin is an actor as well. In 2019, Marlin booked his first Co-Star role. This allowed him to become SAG-AFTRA. He also has appeared in The Walking Dead, Tyler Perry’s Haves and Have Nots, Flight (as a stand in for Michael Beasley) and many other films (Steel Magnolias and commercials (Tim Hortons). Recently, Marlin was featured in Fight Night: A Million Dollar Heist starring Kevin Hart, Taraji P. Hensen, Terrence Howard, and Samuel L. Jackson.  Read more>>

Terrell Gebord

Fast forward to the present, my community and channels have made the most progress i’ve ever had, i received my largest payout from twitch, and i’ve made a ton of really cool connections networking with other creators, including some that i’ve watched for years. Its truly been a rough and unforgiving journey in my opinion, but I couldnt see myself doing anything else, and I cant wait to see how much i grow moving forward. Read more>>

Ashton Wilson

For a while, design lived in the background of my life as a hobby/small side business while I worked in real estate and later in plastic surgery scheduling. Both roles that taught me how to manage details, expectations and most importantly people. But deep down, I knew I wanted something more creative and more personal. In 2020, I made the leap – I went back to school full-time for an interiors degree and launched Ashton Interior Design in 2022. Read more>>

Rachel McClain

PUAH Skincare began as a personal mission—a mother’s desperate search for relief for her daughter’s delicate skin. In 2016, I founded The O-liv-e A-peel Company after countless products failed to soothe my daughter Olivia’s severe skin sensitivities. At a time when even the gentlest commercial formulations triggered reactions, I turned to my background in pharmacy and began researching the power of herbs, oils, and botanical remedies. What started as a solution for my daughter quickly became a deeper calling. Read more>>

Asha Ketchum

I’m a content creator and cosplayer who specializes in body paint, SFX makeup, and creative transformation. My work blends beauty, art, and storytelling and often through bold, gender-bent looks and themed series that push the boundaries of cosplay. I’m most known for turning unexpected ideas into full characters and for my ability to make low-budget materials look high-concept. Read more>>

Hosaveli

I’ve faced many obstacles. Since a child I struggled with poverty, which made me become very money driven. I lost a lot of friends along the way from jail and death but 2023 I lost my blood brother and one of my best friends 6 months apart from each other. Something I could’ve never prepared myself for. Things like this don’t just go away, you battle with them until you’re gone if you ask me. Nothing in the world I want more than my brother and best friend back. Read more>>

Jaelen (Pyx) Bussey

I specialize in film photography, specifically portraits of people that I have met over time. My proudest moment was back in May of 2024, I held my first solo exhibition, there were a ton of people that showed, in the near future I would like to host another, that I actually have an idea and concept for as of now! Read more>>

Wuraola Olagoke

I’m a professional corporate event host, a podcaster and a YouTuber. It’s fair to say I’m an event host and an audio-visual creator. What set me apart as a podcaster is the fact that my podcast channel is a radio like one where you have different programmes and different hosts on the same channel. As an event host, what set me apart is my ingenious character and ability to birth dream events to life. What set me apart as a YouTuber is my ability to document my profesional life in an interesting way. Read more>>

Master Sergeant Baisden

What sets us apart from others we have no borders, no limitations, no restrictions which means that whatever the financial hardship is we do our best to help, many years ago we had a single disabled female Veteran who was a young mother of three (3) minor children and her son needed emergency dental surgery that required her to put down thousands of dollars before the dentists would operate. Our organization was the only organization they raised those thousands of dollars. When she came to us she was frustrated, overwhelmed, and in desperation because she had reached out to dozens of agencies, groups, and organization all saying NO she was happy to hear a YES we will help. Read more>>

Leonard Robinson

As the Director of Membership for the Henry County Chamber of Commerce, I specialize in building connections that matter. My role blends relationship-building, strategic planning, and community engagement. I oversee member recruitment and retention, coordinate key events like ribbon cuttings and orientations, and lead several initiatives—from our Emerging Business Leaders Program to the Veterans Entrepreneurial Group. Read more>>

Storm Perez

It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Moving to Atlanta with just a dream and faith was bold—but reality hit quickly. One of the hardest parts was having to put my passion on hold just to stay afloat. I had big dreams, but bills still had to be paid, and survival often had to come before creativity. Read more>>

Ayana Gidron

I started Adult Supervision Needed because business has always been my passion. Being the change I want to see in the world is my top priority. Creating spaces where people can simply exist as their authentic selves is the most important part of what I do now. Sharing that mission across so many different avenues; whether through events, podcasts, or merchandise. It is the icing on the cake for me. Connecting with people in so many different ways is truly the most rewarding part of this journey. Read more>>

Aundra Jackson

How I started and how I got to where I am today is really a story of faith, passion, and perseverance. I took a leap — a faith walk — not because everything was perfect, but because I believed in the gift God placed in my hands. I’ve always had a passion for cutting hair, not just for the style, but for the confidence it gives people. Life threw its share of challenges my way, but I never let those obstacles define me. Instead, I used them as fuel. Read more>>

Charity Johnson

That’s when the idea for The Admin Firm was born — a business dedicated to providing administrative support to individuals and businesses who need help staying organized and efficient without the commitment of a full-time staff member. Interestingly, at the time, I had also been learning about the Japanese concept of Ikigai, which is all about finding purpose at the intersection of what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for. Every element of that concept perfectly aligned with this business idea, and in that moment, I knew I had finally discovered my purpose. Read more>>

Charnell Williams

Clean Corp started with me cleaning and doing all of the roles. I cleaned, answered the phones, created fliers, website and more. I wanted to create a dependable cleaning service that people could truly count on. I launched the business over 18 years ago here in Atlanta, driven by a passion for service and the desire to help busy families and professionals reclaim their time and peace of mind. What began as a one-woman operation has grown into a trusted team serving homes and offices across the city. Read more>>

Mocha Kelly

I truthfully don’t think any path you take will be smooth. The biggest challenge for me, and I’m sure for plenty of other artists, was my own mindset and getting in my own way. I know from experience, as well as from other art friends, that artists are very hypercritical of their own work. Especially when some people look at what we do and think that it’s not real work compared to more common fields of work. This is something I still struggle with and something I’m still working on. It’s something that never truly goes away, but it does get better for sure. But I want to challenge myself to get outside my comfort zone despite my own anxiety. Read more>>

Kei Kelly

I started drawing when I was really young. At the time, I was mainly interested in comics. I knew I liked to draw, and I knew I had a passion for story telling. I used to create silly characters and silly scenarios that would then become a 20 page long (unfinished comic) I’d forced my siblings to read. By the time high school rolled around, I started to become more interested in 2D animation. I grew up watching anime, so I had a special fondness for Japanese animation in particular. That interest lead me to study four years of 2D animation at SCAD Atlanta.  Read more>>

Rico Cassadine

From 2021 to 2023, I was an active member and cousin of the TTB YouTube platform, participating in various panels and interviews that enriched my experience and connected me with diverse audiences. This year, I continued to pursue my passion through my involvement in Polly Love in Peach City 2 and 3, which has been an exciting chapter in my career. Additionally, I’ve been engaged in music, releasing my first single in 2019, with tracks like “Oh Lawd,” “Problem Child,” and “I Blame Me” resonating with audiences. Read more>>

Jax Porter

1. Can you briefly walk us through your story—how you started and how you got to where you are today? I’ve always had a thing for strategy—spotting patterns, connecting the dots, figuring out what makes things (and people) tick. And I’ve always loved being around creatives. I actually thought I’d end up in the music industry, working on the business side of entertainment. But my path took a turn into healthcare and biotech, where I spent nearly 20 years in corporate marketing and sales. Read more>>

Tori L. Edwards

I’ve always been drawn to helping women feel seen and understood. Over time, I began to have conversations with women about their family dynamics. A common area of disconnection was that between the mother and daughter. That’s when WITH MOTHA was born. A platform for mothers and daughters rooted in emotional growth and faith-based transformation. What started as a passion evolved into a calling. Read more>>

Mariam Timmer

I’m grateful for my supportive family, who’ve been instrumental in my journey. I’m also proud to be part of the American Women Association in Lagos, Nigeria, serving as Executive Social Director for the American Women’s Club Lagos, where we empower and connect women from diverse backgrounds and professions. Read more>>

Chaz Carter

I’ve personally worked in the underground art scene of Atlanta for over 10 years. I’ve helped hundreds of artists with their creative vision and my photography studio is a new way to assist those goals. Aeon Studios came from the growth and expanding needs of my music production company (Bando Beatz). The creation of the studio may have been incidental but its successes are anything but. Read more>>