Every day we have a choice. We can support an up and coming podcaster, try a new family-run restaurant, join a boutique gym started by a local fitness champ or we could keep giving away our money to the handful of giants who already control so much of our commerce. Our daily decisions impact the kind world we live in; if we want a world where small businesses are growing and artists and creatives are thriving then we should support them with our time, money and attention. We’re proud to highlight inspiring creatives and entrepreneurs each week in Hidden Gems series. Check out some of our latest local gem features below.
Denise Brilliant
That desire led me to entrepreneurship, where I’ve built businesses through strategic joint ventures and partnerships. By aligning with forward-thinking collaborators and leveraging shared strengths, I’ve been able to scale ventures that deliver transformative value to clients and customers. Today, I’m proud to lead The Hatch Works (www.thehatchworks.com), a marketing agency that helps investment-backed startups and growing brands navigate the complexities of scaling while fostering creativity and innovation. Read More>>
Mvelo Hadebe
I started off my trading journey individually but I ended up partnering up with Qhayiya Mbuthuma who is a friend of mine. Our partnership was unique as we complimented each other well. Where I was weak, he was strong; where he was weak, I was strong. We felt that we had something to offer in the industry. We were also tired of scammers too. We opened our small company in order to prove that you could provide valuable information and education without charging or scamming people. Read More>>
Leah Harris
So, when I was in the fourth grade, I wanted to be a teacher. Now, even though I had many great teachers during my K-12 career, as a black girl, from a predominately white area, Marietta, Georgia, I didn’t have a teacher who looked like me until I got to middle school, and throughout my entire K-12 education, I only had five or six teachers who were black or brown. Then, as I’m in my undergraduate career in college, I started realizing how much injustice there is within educational systems, in predominately black and brown areas. Read More>>
John Petri
As I got older, I became passionate about graphic design. Even though a lot of people told me there was no money or opportunity in sports design and that I should focus my work on something else, I always dreamed about being a part of that world. After graduating college in 2003, I moved from Buffalo, NY to Atlanta, GA to pursue a career in graphic design. My first job was at a creative agency, Crawford Mikus Design, where I learned the value of hard work, dedication, and building strong relationships. After 2 years on the agency side as a Junior Designer, I switched gears to the in-house corporate world, spending 10+ years at Interface flooring systems, where I grew from a graphic design role into Director of Design, overseeing global branding, technology, and customer experience. Read More>>
Rachel Bruno
Moving to a new place always presents an exciting challenge for me! Starting fresh to discover new clients and going the extra mile to showcase my skills across different platforms can be quite invigorating. I trust in my abilities to thrive wherever I go. After all, I’ve tackled this situation before, relocated, and built everything from the ground up once more. When the moment is right, the perfect client will come my way! Read More>>
Demarcus Cook
I created Thousands of flyers and promoted my class. Being able to offer affordable dance classes to the community. Early on in High school I realize I didn’t want to work a regular job 9-5. Starting my entrepreneur life and began to do dance classes, Make up, FITNESS TRAINER, Artist development and creative directing and from there I was able to Choreography on Bravo housewives of Atlanta doing the choreography for Kandi Burruss wedding. Starting My dance team House of Dose with over 85 Dancers. Young ladies ages 4-18 and also my adult company ages 18 and up. Read More>>
Sarah Rosenberg
From the beginning, I was met with intense competition and the pressure to excel. Although I had a deep love for skincare, the rigorous training and demanding coursework challenged my endurance. I spent a lot of time studying anatomy, skin types, and product ingredients, often feeling overwhelmed. Balancing this with practical, hands-on training in a salon environment introduced new anxieties. Every day I faced the fear of not being good enough, doubting my skills while watching my peers flourish. Read More>>
Shanon Jordan
Along with poetry, another creative outlet that I have been pursuing is modeling. I have always loved taking pictures and expressing myself through clothing. Atlanta has been the perfect place for me to continue this passion. Over this past year, I have been working with photographers in Atlanta to build my portfolio; I recently shot a commercial for a Black woman-owned natural hair care brand that will be announced soon. I will be walking in a Valentine’s show in February for the designer Stacy Lawes. I’ve been making strides in my craft that I have been so proud of. Read More>>
Chi Chi
I quit going to school for nursing ,realizing it wasn’t my calling at all, although I look good in scrubs. I started creating content and being serious in 2016. IT DID NOT GO ANYWHERE until 2021. That was the year I first went viral and God has been using me and allowing me to show people the correlation we all have with each other in life ever since. You’d be amazed by how a lot of us have had/ are having the same experiences. Oh, but God’s not done yet. Read More>>
Kali Sade
My name is Kali Sade, and I am an R&B artist. I was born in Milledgeville Georgia, and now I reside in the Metro Atlanta Area. I started out singing as far as I can remember, and eventually started singing in the church choir. My grandfather Kenny Kelsey was in a band in the 70’s and 80’s and he encouraged us to sing and write songs. Those song writing sessions when I was a child helped me before the singer/songwriter I am today. I released my first song at the age of 15 in 2020, and since then I have released over 25 songs and an EP. Read More>>
Keiaundra Donaby
Currently I am a RDA( Registered Dental Assistant) and I love being able to assist Dentist. Being able to educate patients on oral health and assuring them that anxiety is normal and they are making the 1st step by walking through the dental doors to reclaim their smile and confidence back. Read More>>
Queen Canada
Sometimes i try on clothes and ill call my kids in to tell me how they feel about my outfit. So i started from nothing . I was that kid that didn’t have it all growing up . So when i got to the point to where i could really live in the fashion world how i want to . I must say i really be putting them clothes on. I still have so much more ideas and goals to reach my big goals in the content and fashion world. I have a great support team and im so thankful for that. My photographers which is also my bestie is the reason i have to that leap of faith in the fashion world. So make sure you keep your eyes open because Queen really goin for her big one Read More>>
Kierra “Kiez” Shepherd
I got started simply by following what felt natural—expressing myself through different mediums and embracing the things that intrinsically move me. Over time, I realized that my purpose wasn’t just about creativity but about using it as a tool to help others. I’m passionate about eliminating the white elephants in the room—starting conversations about things that are often overlooked or misunderstood. That’s what led me to create The Bare Sunflower in October 2018, a brand that blends health, wellness, sacred sexuality, and spirituality to empower people in ways that feel both natural and transformative. Read More>>
Lauren Abrams
Our approach to professional development is something that sets us apart. We focus on professional development for mid-career professionals, specifically women who work in the field of global health. One event we hosted was about failing forward – how to learn from your mistakes and turn them into something positive. Our next professional development event is focused on honing your elevator pitch; it’s also a networking opportunity. Read More>>
Johdi Ann Moulton
Currently I’m working toward building up my clientele and getting the momentum going with that. Right now most of my advertising is via word of mouth or just offering free or discounted sessions to anyone who wants it. I’m most proud of the fact that I’m putting myself out there towards trying this new career path. Trying new things and change in general can be intimidating so taking this leap of faith and leaving my comfort zone by putting my work out there for everyone to see is something I’m really proud of. Read More>>
Charles Hammond
I was born and raised in South Central Los Angeles. I started cutting hair at the age of 15 years old on my grand parents back porch. I use to cut my own hair for while. Till one day a friend ask could I cut his hair. I was like ummm I don’t know. He said u make yours look like that. He said the same for me. I said ok. So before u know it I was cutting my neighborhood every Saturday morning. I was the 5 dollar guy. Till one day grandfather came outside on a Saturday while I was cutting hair. Keep in mind I Had multiple people waiting. He (grandfather) snatched my clipper cords out of the plug socket. Read More>>
Addae Moon
I first came to Atlanta in 1989 to attend Clark Atlanta University where I majored in theatre and film. Prior to that I was at Douglas Anderson School of the Arts in Jacksonville, Florida where my focus was theatre and visual art. Because I was a fairly good natured weird artist kid, my parents pretty much let me be me. After Clark I bounced back and forth between Atlanta, Chicago and NY moving between acting, directing and playwriting. I eventually received an MFA in Playwriting from Ohio University and when I returned to Atlanta I decided to focus on playwriting, dramaturgy and directing. Read More>>
Terrell Daniel
We created a team and i fell inlove with virtual realty ever since that day. I started to create my own content and i went virtual a couple time. I went virtual for my NFL Pro Era Livestreams which were putting in the Top 10 of tiktok gaming livestreams every night. Then i got an email from an agency that works directly from Meta and they invited me to the Meta Quest Program. It changed my life from that point on. Now im a full time content creator and had opportunities to work with the NBA (2024 all star weekend), Nike( Ad for hibbett sports and the Nike airmax DN campaign) , Ubisoft( Assissain’s Creed Nexus VR campaign). Read More>>
Tiffany Jones
By 2020, I was ready to take a leap of faith. I left the stability of corporate America to go all in on real estate. It was a scary time—the world was shutting down due to the pandemic, and I was stepping into full-time entrepreneurship. But I stayed committed to my goals and closed five homes in my first year. From there, I doubled my goals in 2021 and surpassed them, proving to myself that I was built for this industry. Read More>>
Rena Olsen
Everyone is invited to the table of philanthropy, which means “love of humanity”. Through Uncommon Philanthropist, or UP, my mission is to encourage people to love one another as “uncommon philanthropists”, and actively engage in charitable giving, volunteering and service to one another–either close to home or internationally. Read More>>
Rachel Hazzard
I’ve always known that entrepreneurship was my path. I started young, selling lashes and hair, then moved into clothing and launched my boutique. Like any business journey, there were plenty of ups and downs, but I stayed committed and eventually took the leap to focus on my boutique full-time. From there, I knew I wanted to expand and create multiple streams of income, which led me to start my virtual call center. Being able to help people find employment was rewarding, and it naturally pushed me toward helping people in other financial areas—like credit repair and taxes. Now, I run multiple businesses and continue to grow, always looking for ways to help others build wealth and create financial freedom. Read More>>
Mystic Rainn
Absolutely not. For a long time, I struggled with self-doubt, wondering if people would think I was “too woo-woo” or not “woo-woo enough” to do the work I knew I was meant for. I tried to fit into boxes that weren’t made for me, watering myself down so I could be more “acceptable.” Read More>>
Bethany Mclean
Bethany: Since I started on my own, I had to learn everything from scratch, not least being how to budget through the winter when events slow to a trickle. Navigating COVID and implementing new sanitation protocols was a real challenge as well. Now as our business grows in a different direction, we are learning how to balance travel and local work. Read More>>
Adia Howard
RA Cosmetics is a family-owned, all-natural skincare and haircare company that has been dedicated to providing high-quality products for over 20 years. Founded by my father, Idowu Etefia, an immigrant from Nigeria, the brand was built on the belief that beauty starts with healthy, nourished skin and hair. We specialize in creating luxurious yet effective products that harness the power of nature to care for and enhance the skin and hair. Our top selling products are raw batana oil collection, pure yellow or white shea butter (solid or whipped form), as well as our cleaning black soap’s. Read More>>
Timothy George
Once I mastered the pop-up game, “by any means necessary” became my mantra. I sublet my Harlem apartment, packed a bag, and hit the road—no safety net, just determination and a Megabus ticket. For eight months, I crashed wherever I could, selling my products at free and low-cost markets. Read More>>
Zwist
Around 2020, the demand for digital art skyrocketed as major auction houses began spotlighting emerging talents. Seizing the moment, I pitched my work to a small Twitter-based studio focused on footwear—and soon found myself collaborating with a team that was later acquired by Nike. This partnership evolved into a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: creating and marketing my own official Nike Air Force 1 shoes. The collection went on to achieve over $10 million in trading volume, with the highest-selling digital Zwist Drip collectible fetching $74,000 when I was just 17. Read More>>
Maureen Doss
In the winter of 2013, my life was forever changed. My 11-year-old daughter was diagnosed with brain cancer, and suddenly, my world turned upside down. I was now part of some club I never knew existed nor did I want to be in, the Cancer Moms. The next two years were filled with a whirlwind of emotions, sleepless nights, prayers, and endless hospital visits as she bravely fought through several brain surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation treatments. We even moved out of state for specialized care, leaving behind everything familiar. It was the most terrifying and challenging time of our lives. There are so many moments I am leaving out that are coming up but I’ll save those for another time. Read More>>
Jarvis McColumn
I ended up not going to work tht day and i went to the interview instead and i landed the job at the graphics gig. I never went back to the airport not even to get my check and now this is my full time job for 13 years thus far. I am a graphic desinger a photographer a sign maker and musch more. Im the “Tinker Hartsfield” to many brands in Atlanta, but not only Atlanta. The furthest I’ve done business is between Alaska and the United Kingdom! Read More>>
Jay Bendlin
While improving my photography skills, I was able to cover all of our sixteen sports and learn more and more about not just the art of photography, but also about efficiency. This helped me in my internship with Tracktown USA, the premier organizer for track & field events in the United States. I helped them over the Olympic Trials and would eventually use those connections to work the World Athletics 2022 World Championships at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon. Read More>>
Kimberly Morris
HEC provides a comprehensive suite of services, catering to the diverse needs of educational institutions. We tailor our services to meet the unique needs and aspirations of each client, ensuring that our recommendations and solutions align with their vision and mission. Services we offer include, interim leadership and support staffing, operational and policies and procedures review, software implementation, and staff development and training. Read More>>
Chef Lowell
Entrepreneurship is never smooth. Starting a meal prep business before meal prep was popular (back in 2011), growth continues to be a challenge: trying to maintain customer experience and consistency in products, is an ongoing struggle with a high turnover of staff, which is typical in the industry. Another big challenge was purchasing a building and managing it with limited financing. Read More>>
Riley Jaye
While it was a necessary decision for my personal growth, stepping away from my career meant that I had to start from scratch when I returned. Rebuilding my client base and getting back into the rhythm of my work was a challenge, but it taught me how important it is to stay adaptable and patient with myself. The difference between Naples, FL, and Atlanta, GA is significant—Naples is a smaller, quieter town, while Atlanta is a bustling, fast-paced city with a much larger beauty scene. The shift to Atlanta has pushed me to grow in new ways, refining my skills to stand out in a competitive, diverse market. It’s been a challenge, but also a rewarding experience that’s made me more creative and confident in my work. Read More>>
Leia Genis
I began making cyanotypes in 2020, around the same time in quarantine that many were making sourdough starters and watching Tiger King. Much like these trendy interests, I thought my cyanotypes would be a six month fling and then I would return to my usual modes of making. Five years later, I’m still making them. Read More>>
Crystal Finley
When I was 16, I had my son, and what started as a passion quickly turned into a hustle. I originally went to college to become a prosecutor, but after finishing my bachelor’s degree, I realized that I was only chasing something that wasn’t my true calling. I didn’t want to spend my life in a career I wasn’t passionate about. At that point, I had already built a small clientele, and it was clear that hair was where I needed to be. Read More>>
Fan Tang
During my studies, I explored the connection between traditional Chinese art and contemporary design, developing a unique artistic approach. My work often incorporates elements of nature and sustainability, reflecting my deep concern for environmental issues. I believe that illustration is a powerful medium for storytelling and awareness, and I strive to use my art to inspire conversations about our relationship with the environment. Read More>>
Victoria Smith
I revealed how appearances can be deceiving, challenging the stigma surrounding homelessness and mental health. As I confronted my own battles with anxiety, ptsd and ADHD, Victoria’s story becomes a powerful testament to resilience, reminding us that every person carries a unique story worth hearing. Read More>>
Monica Anderson
The goal of Birch Tree Bookstore is to provide a safe, welcoming, and inclusive community space where we can tell our stories, and learn from the stories of others. Our focus on connection is not evident in just our diverse selection of books, but also evident in our community events and support of local artists. Late last year, a painting studio was added to the store to allow an additional outlet for creatives to spread their voice. All stories matter and all voices deserve to be heard. Read More>>
Orazie Cook
It was through my work in public health that I witnessed a heartbreaking gap—survivors of domestic violence often had to choose between their own safety and the safety of their pets. That realization led me to found Praline’s Backyard Foundation, a nonprofit that provides free pet boarding and foster services for survivors, ensuring that no one has to leave their pet behind when escaping abuse. The foundation has grown to support dozens of pets at any given time, thanks to an incredible network of volunteers and partners. Read More>>
Donnell Darrien
I began learning the trade from a relative who is in the business. After about a year of learning and “grunt” work, I began working with a brother in FAITH that owned his own construction company. From that point on, he became my employer and mentor in this field. My company became incorporated in 2020, and since then I am humbled to have stuck with the learning curves and development experiences that have led to incremental and exponential growth in the last five years for the company. I am blessed to have some great team members working with/for Rebirth on various projects, as well as a solid business reputation with our customers based on the given reviews. Read More>>
Jade Wilson
My journey led me to work with various hair care companies, where I gained firsthand experience in the industry. At the same time, I shared my personal hair care journey as a YouTuber, helping others navigate their own paths to healthier hair. Over time, I became increasingly aware of the importance of high-quality, natural ingredients, which inspired me to study herbalism and begin crafting my own herbal-infused hair care products. Read More>>
Kia El Bey
Born a DC Native, raised in PG county MD I find myself very diverse! I know how to hold a great business conversation with the best of them; yet also keep myself relatable to people of all walks of life. My journey to becoming “your Favorite Inspirational Roqkstar,” was no cake walk! I’ve been incarcerated, hospitalized, and so much more. My gratitude to the Most high and my resilience have led me to a place where people trust me and support me because of just that! My book “The Dark Side Of Winning,” gives a few gems and you can grab your copy from Amazon! Read More>>
Orlan Rose
Me and my wife Dana, whom I met in the restaurant industry, had a dream to own a patch of land where we could host dinners, sometimes themed dinners to tell our story. We wanted to have a farm and an experiment room all on the land for the dinners. We named our business Penny patch after our first dog together Pennywise, whom has passed since. So to raise money, we’ve been catering events, doing local pop ups and cookouts, and doing weddings. We will be in more events this year continuing our story together. Read More>>
Teresa Finley
I met my husband, Foster Finley, in Atlanta and we made Atlanta our home. The early years of marriage and the birth of our son Patrick were happy but challenging times! Although we were a two career couple with a child, we prioritized family and community. Fortunately, my Irish parents moved to Atlanta to spend time with their grandson and to be a major presence in our lives. Once again, the Irish music was playing in the house. I would arrive to pick up our son after work from my parents’ house and would often find my little guy at the piano with his grandad, or dancing about to an Irish jig with his grandparents. Before I knew it, Patrick wanted to play Irish fiddle like his two uncles! Our Irish heritage was taking hold in the next generation! Read More>>
Annashavia Render
My journey as an entrepreneur began as a childhood dream, sparked by my vivid imagination. I’ve always been deeply expressive and creative, though at times, a bit timid. Over the years, I discovered that my shyness was not a weakness but a hidden superpower. What once made me hesitant later shaped me into a confident, bold woman. Overcoming my fear of being seen has become more than just personal growth—it’s now my mission to inspire and empower other women to embrace their own light and shine unapologetically. Read More>>
Antonio Mere
Music became that for me. I started performing for private schools, and eventually, I got into a performing arts middle school and Akron School for the Arts High School in Akron, Ohio. I started as a self-taught Songwriter and producer and used my classically trained singing, piano, and drumming abilities to help enhance my artistic journey. I am a senior at Cuyahoga Community College, studying for my Audio Engineering Degree in Recording Arts and Technology. I am a pop artist who fuses genres such as R&B, Vintage Soul, and Jazz into my singer-songwriter-esque writing style. Read More>>
Itzel Bacilio Lopez
From humble beginnings, we navigated the tumultuous waters of the salon industry, with my mother always at the forefront, leading by example. Her tireless efforts and willingness to seize opportunities led us to acquire a small salon in 2011. It was a pivotal moment when my mother entrusted me with a significant role in managing the business, a responsibility I embraced wholeheartedly. Read More>>
Bhavana Dv
The road to where I am today has been anything but smooth. Like many creatives, I faced moments of self-doubt, questioning whether I was good enough or if my work truly stood out. The transition from academia to the professional world was particularly challenging—learning to balance creative freedom with strategic thinking, and constantly pushing myself to evolve.Looking back, I’ve come to realize that the challenges along the way weren’t obstacles—they were essential to my growth. They shaped me, refined my perspective, and pushed me toward my fullest potential. The journey wasn’t always smooth, but in hindsight, I wouldn’t change a thing. Read More>>
Steven Crafton-karnes
That’s where plants came in. They became a source of peace and purpose in a time of uncertainty. Plants made us feel grounded, and they turned decorating into a joy rather than a chore. My first plant was a Golden Pothos, bought from a big-box store with no instructions—just a tiny piece of paper with a sun logo. I crossed my fingers and hoped for the best. Not long after, I had filled my living room and kitchen (the two rooms with the best light) with plants. Read More>>
Jonah Joseph
A defining moment in my journey came on New Year’s Eve in 2019. Like many others, I was listening to the Earn Your Leisure podcast when I came across an episode featuring Brandon Rule. His insights immediately resonated with me, so I reached out. To my surprise, he responded and sent me my first pro forma, introducing me to the language of finance and real estate. I didn’t realize it at the time, but with COVID-19 just around the corner, I was about to have the perfect opportunity to dive deep into learning and prepare for my first deal. Read More>>
Carlos Rico
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Breaking into the music scene as a newcomer can be really tough. Even though I felt confident in my music creation and live mixing, I still had to convince promoters and venue owners to give me a shot. The competition is fierce, and keeping up with social media adds another layer of pressure that can make any artist feel overwhelmed. As someone who’s a bit introverted, it was a challenge, but my passion for performing pushed me to step out of my comfort zone and show my true self to get the gigs I dreamed of! Read More>>
Dr. Erica Wilson
I was raised with the unwavering support of my mother and driven by the love of my sons, Entrepreneur Daryl Wilson and Retired Pro Athlete Allen Hurns, by the grace of God, I transformed my personal struggles as a young, single mother into a powerful mission to support others. I have dedicated my life to uplifting single parents and youth, particularly in the face of adversity. I work to help transform the lives of mothers of sons by empowering them to discover their professional passions, achieve work-life balance, and nurture their mental health. I am the blueprint for turning life’s challenges into meaningful lessons and innovative opportunities to thrive. I continue to inspire others through my creativity, determination and servant leadership. Read More>>
Megan Hosfeld
Growing up, my best friend’s mom was an interior designer, and from the time I was six years old, I was immersed in that world. Whether it was learning to sew draperies and pillows or tagging along on installs, I was fascinated by the process of transforming spaces. I worked closely with her until she moved away when I was 16, but at the time, I never considered interior design as a career path for myself. Read More>>
Devon Vander Voort
I help private art collectors build their art collections. We determine what a collectors main goals are (investment, decor, management, etc) and then source artwork that matches their goals. I’m an art historian first and foremost, so I prioritize art and artists that are or will become part of the art historical cannon. Read More>>
Tammi Boyd
I decided to wait for a long period of time prior to me joining. However, the walls came down and I joined. I started actively engaging in the Praise Dance Ministry; which started pulling the anointing back out of me. Then I would have the opportunity to speak at women’s activities and the gift in me started shining. So much so that I was asked if I would be willing to enter the Minister’s Licensing Program; unfortunately, I declined because after 14 ½ years, I had made the decision to relocate back to Florida. Read More>>
Mckenzie Higginbotham
My grandparents visited the farm daily, often accompanied by their dogs. Their presence was a constant reminder that everyone brings unique talents to the table and that work, when approached with joy, can be deeply fulfilling. This philosophy now shapes the way we run our vineyard. We take great pleasure in welcoming guests, especially those who bring their dogs, as it evokes fond memories of our farm days. The values of family, hard work, and stewardship of the land have been woven into my very being, forming the foundation of who I am. Read More>>
Abraham Robertson
While many of my peers headed to Wall Street, I saw potential in striking out on my own. It wasn’t long until a friend invited me to invest in a real estate project, leading to the purchase of a $45,000 parcel of land that was eventually developed and sold for a $100,000 profit. That early deal propelled a series of residential and commercial ventures in Atlanta and Baltimore, attracting upwards of $1 million in outside capital from fellow Howard alumni and other investors. Read More>>
Ella Beth
We hit it off fairly immediately and were quite happy and settled together until 2021 when due to the pandemic he had to move home to America. At the end of 2021 and just 2 weeks shy of my 9 year anniversary in Vietnam I flew to Atlanta to be with my man and we married not long after. Read More>>
Toni Bacon
The journey was not easy. I struggled with low self esteem and the fear of not being able to look up to par because I was always worried about the opinions of other people. Ive been criticized and picked at before in the past and it caused me to not love myself for a while. As I became more self aware and grew up with a support group and amazing friends, I started to love myself even more and express who I am. There were a few pauses when I didn’t feel like I was enough as well but, it never stopped me to reaching my goal. Read More>>
Snow Xia
Beyond personal struggles, working in fashion photography comes with its own set of challenges—building a strong network, staying relevant in an ever-evolving industry, and balancing creative freedom with commercial demands. As I started incorporating AI into my work, I also faced skepticism from some traditional photographers who saw it as a threat rather than a tool for innovation. Read More>>
Amira Kouidri
It’s been a path filled with hard work, patience, and steady progress. Since fully embracing my career as an adult, I’ve made significant progress, and I’m truly grateful for how far I’ve come. I’m excited for what’s next, ready to keep challenging myself and evolving as an actress. Read More>>
Madeline Evans
I am immensely grateful for my comedy foundation because my teams exposed ourselves to different improv philosophies and formats, traveled to festivals around the US, and even experimented by creating our own formats. That independent drive to make something out of ourselves at a young age and eagerness to perform and absorb as much as possible led to a lot of my success today. Read More>>
Michelle Thomasula
Michelle’s journey in the world of art has been nothing short of remarkable. It all began during her elementary years when she discovered her deep-rooted passion for artistic expression, eventually setting her sights on becoming an art teacher. This early determination laid the foundation for a life long commitment to the arts. Read More>>
Terry Taylor
In 2012, while in college, my cousin helped me put together my first demo. He used an agent from his network I signed a contract with Cry Girl Ent at the time and she flew to New York, where she met with labels like Def Jam, Atlantic, and G-Unit to shop my demo. It was a surreal experience, and the feedback I received from labels, particularly Atlantic and Def Jam, fueled my passion even more. Read More>>
Oleksandra Sokhonchuk
The process wasn’t easy. Each piece requires skill and patience. I spent countless hours perfecting recipes, selecting only the highest quality ingredients, and refining the artistry behind every bouquet. But I wasn’t alone—my family and friends were incredibly supportive, patiently enduring all my experiments. (Though, let’s be honest, who wouldn’t love being an official chocolate taste tester?) Their encouragement meant everything, and they became my first ambassadors, eagerly spreading the word. Read More>>
Zee P
Before that, since 3rd grade, I was wearing uniforms 5 days/wk. In my case, thought that was the norm. I was more so into sneakers because that was the “IT” thing & really the only thing that made the uniform stood out. I thought it was cool & wanted as many as I could get. But, I also had to work with what I was given from back to school, birthday, & Christmas. I was making sure I knew what to ask for so I could express myself thoroughly with what was given to me. At the same time, very humbled & grateful (shout out to my parents). Read More>>
Wallace D’anchesqui
I founded Rejeix in 2021 while I was still in high school, working a desk job in a law office. At the time, I was just about to graduate, and in 2022, I officially finished school while still working in that same office, handling documents and paperwork. But at some point, I had to ask myself: Is this really what I want for the rest of my life? Sitting at a desk, pushing papers, with no real opportunity to pursue what I actually love? Read More>>
Rashun Faust
At 22, I took a leap and moved to South Carolina, where I began working at The Westin, a high-end hotel known for its fine dining. I started as a line cook at Oceans, the hotel’s intimate restaurant, where I worked with incredible ingredients and learned from some of the most talented chefs in the industry. That experience shaped me. It was there, under the pressure of a professional kitchen, that I fell in love with the artistry, the discipline, and the intensity of this world. Read More>>
Jordan Geer
Photography became more than just a hobby; it became a passion, a form of expression, a way to connect with the world on a deeper level. It was a legacy inherited, not just the camera itself, but the vision, the appreciation for the power of a single image. My grandfather’s camera is no longer just a camera; it’s a link to the past, a reminder of the stories he shared, and an inspiration to create my own. It’s a challenge to continue learning, to refine my skills, to see the world with fresh eyes. And every time I raise it to my eye, I feel his presence, a gentle nudge encouraging me to keep exploring, keep capturing, keep telling the stories that only light can write. Read More>>
Randolph Gassaway
I grew up playing baseball, I started when I was 3. I’ve always had a passion for the game. I was fortunate to play 7 seasons with the Orioles and Pirates. I coached with the Padres and scouted with the Mariners for 2 years. Now I create and help players reach their goals. Read More>>
Aurielle Carson
Creating this non-profit and focusing on its purpose has tugged at me both emotionally and physically. However, it has been the most rewarding experience that has molded me to bring out parts of myself that are uncomfortable and learn how to sit in that discomfort. Instead of running away or stopping completely I have faced the struggles head on and it has been a battle but I always remember the purpose and how this non-profit can help so many people. Read More>>
Kimberly “kim” Alexander
I am also the founder of a conference called Shattered Pieces, which I’ve hosted for the last three years. This conference has been life-changing for every attendee and speaker. I took a break this year due to personal expenses I’ve incurred in organizing the event, but I’m excited to bring it back in September 2026. I am actively seeking sponsors to assist in making the conference a big success, and I encourage everyone to follow the Shattered Pieces Facebook page to stay in the know and ensure they don’t miss out! Read More>>
Kim Hector
I still have my full time job as an accountant. And now I’m a travel agent. It excites me to be able to plan amazing trips for people and hear them say that it was everything they could dream of! I have booked birthday trips, solo trips, group trips, honeymoons, baby moons and just because trips. I have sent people all over the world. I also have to practice what I preach. Being a travel agent has inspired me to take solo trips and see more of the world as well. I have been to France, Italy, Thailand, Spain, Caribbean, Mexico, Canada and India. I am not done! I am going into my 5th year as a travel agent and I’m so proud of myself for making a business out of something that I truly love. The sky is the limit and the world is my oyster! Read More>>
Brianna White
Once I started getting more comfortable doing different looks on myself and my friends I decided to create a instagram account separate from my personal account to post my makeup looks. One day this woman asked me to do her makeup for her birthday, and just like that I had my very first makeup client. In my living room with no real setup, no lighting, and essentially no kit. I did her makeup, she loved it, and after that day she booked me to do her makeup about 3 more times that month alone. Read More>>
Marissa Washington
From there I made a lash page on instagram and posted my work for sale on Facebook Marketplace for $30 per full set. From there I continued to do lashes to get me through college, I loved the fast money but most of all I loved creating and maintaining relationships with my clients. Lashing became so therapeutic for me. What I enjoy more than the money is, meeting new people, giving them a relaxing and comforting experience and them leaving feeling and looking beautiful. Many people ask me why I don’t charge more for my services and the previous sentence is the answer, its never been about money for me I love the entire experience that comes with lashing, the money is just a plus. Read More>>
Kendia Missick
The thought of Failure took over my mind and the.perfectfacee ended shortly after it opened but my passion never did. Attractivefaces was founded in February of 2024. I invested everything I had from money to build my kit to the time and effort it took to create my own logo and flyers and consistently advertise my business. My business has prospered in just a year beyond my dreams and Attractivefaces is here to stay! I couldn’t have gotten here without faith,the push from my friends and family, and keeping God as the center of my business. I was home-based when I first started and now I have the ability to be able to work in a Shop. If you are or want to be a business owner and don’t know where to start, start by having Faith! Read More>>
K6wya
I started in music production back in 2020 when I was still in college in Kansas. From there I decided to pursue music full time in 2022. I pack my bags and moved to ATL. I was spending as much time as I could in studios and meeting new people. That was the foundation for me to start solidifying myself as a music producer in the industry. From then I just kept working, and the work paid off! Now I have been able to be blessed to have worked with artist’s such as: Hunxho, Lil Poppa, Tee Grizzly, Skilla Baby, Doe Boy, Enphamus, DDG, Meek Mill, Etc. Read More>>
Allison G. Daniels
Having spent 38 years as a Lead Paralegal Specialist, Allison honed her skills in organization, leadership, and navigating complex systems. These experiences not only equipped her with the tools to excel in high-pressure environments but also fostered a deep sense of discipline and integrity that would later become instrumental in her pastoral and creative pursuits. Her career as a legal professional was marked by excellence, mentorship, and a commitment to justice, setting the foundation for her future endeavors. Read More>>
Julián Gonzalez-diaz
Any struggles I’ve had have been internally, trying to figure out what direction to take my work. It makes me wish in a way there was more competition between visual artists. I feel like it would make my work stronger if I was in some sort of rivalry with another painter. There should be visual artist beef, just for the sport of course. I don’t know what that would look like, but maybe that’ll happen soon. Read More>>
