It’s more important to understand someone than to judge them. We think the first step to understanding someone is asking them the fundamental questions about who they are and how they became the person they are today. Understanding and empathy are essential building blocks for a better, more compassionate world. We’re incredibly fortunate to be able to ask these questions each week through our interview series. Below you’ll find inspiring interviews from in and around Atlanta.
Chef Chazzy
My journey started in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned early that food is a form of healing. Over the years, I blended my background in psychology and healthcare with my love for cooking to create S&S Cookin— a brand rooted in empowerment, connection, and culture. Today, I use food as a tool to bring people together, spark healing conversations, and build experiences that nourish more than just the body. For me, it’s bigger than recipes — it’s about how you’re cookin’ through life. Read more>>
Matt Smith
I’ve been interested in clothing as long as I can remember. When I was a little kid it was dressing up like my favorite athletes to watch them play on TV then it was alt-rock/punk aesthetics and thrift store clothes in middle/high school. I started thrifting at 12 or so and was always drawn to vintage clothing and styles. In a sense I was in the same category as Gen Z is today, nostalgic for a time period I wasn’t around for, but super into how it looked. Read more>>
April Schulz
I’m the owner and the lead photographer at April Elizabeth Photography. I specialize in high-end senior portraits and glam-style shoots, offering a full service, concierge-style experience. What sets me my work apart is the personalized touch and attention to detail that go into every shoot. I’m known for capturing the unique personalities of my clients and delivering magazine worthy images. Read more>>
Anayah Zoe
Today, I work in content production and influencer marketing, with a focus on amplifying meaningful campaigns—especially those led by Black and Brown-owned brands. I help creators and businesses craft stories that resonate and connect with their audiences in real ways. In addition, I model and create content of my own. This shift from behind the scenes to stepping in front of the camera has allowed me to fully embrace my presence as a muse and deepen my connection to the work I create. Read more>>
Liliya Cooper
I have always had a passion for the Entertainment industry. I grew up going to concerts and watching endless movies, music videos, and television shows. My initial introduction to the industry was in high school through my Audio Visual Technology and Film class. It was then that I realized that I had a passion for this sort of media. The first time I truly picked up a camera was on a family trip to Barcelona and Morocco in 2018. I immediately fell in love with photography and never wanted to put down my dad’s Canon. Ever since then, I have had this unstoppable drive to learn everything I can about cameras. Read more>>
Lana Harris
My journey really started at Lovejoy High School (shout out to Clayco!). I was so focused on getting good grades all 4 years, I didn’t pay much attention to what I wanted to be when I graduated. At the time, you could not convince me I wasn’t going to be an actress or a model! I also watched a lot of HGTV, so in my head I was basically already an interior designer. My mom essentially told me… think again haha. She said I could do it if I put my mind to it, of course, but that those jobs are extremely competitive and could take years before I saw any real money so I needed to choose something more realistic. Read more>>
Madeline K Barry
I sold everything I owned and settled in a village outside of Brussels in 2018. It wasn’t until I arrived for my first day of work at the non-profit that I realized there had been a grave miscommunication and that there was no “event coordinator” position available in the organization. They were under the impression that I would be working as a full-time artist as a member of the collective. I had put all my eggs in this Belgian basket, so I jumped in headfirst. I asked a team member to mentor me, began taking classes at a local art school, and found a studio space I loved. Read more>>
Ebony Harris
I invested in my first craft machine and took the time to learn the machine and the craft. Soon after, I started making shirts, cups, totes and personalized items. Everything is going well, I have a pretty good clientele, ranging from AL, FL and GA, business is steady, and I have relocated to Georgia. Once I got to GA, I knew I wanted to step things up a notch and started doing my research on embroidery. I fell in love with the idea and invested into my first embroidery machine. Read more>>
Albert Assad
Growing up in California as the child of Mexican immigrants with a Lebanese heritage, my journey to founding Atlantic Consulting Solutions has been anything but conventional. My mother—who raised four children largely alone while working across the San Diego border daily—showed me what determination truly means. While she built a nursing career and eventually founded a medical mission serving developing countries, I was attending boarding school in New Hampshire, absorbing diverse perspectives that would later serve me well. Read more>>
Henry Adeleye
Kupcakerie is a bakery and cafe located in East Point, GA. Why are we different from any other cupcake shop in Atlanta? Well, you can come and stay a while. We have created an epic third space where people can come and enjoy a cupcake and a cup of coffee all while working or planning their next big move. Additionally, everything we sell is baked from scratch. No box mixes, no canned frosting, just love and human hands. Kupcakerie has been formed out of pure love and hard work. Read more>>
Shanea Lewis
Absolutely not—it’s been a journey full of trial and error. Like many entrepreneurs, I had to learn a lot on the fly. I leaned on mentors, asked questions, made mistakes, and kept going. One of the biggest challenges was building a solid business foundation while simultaneously trying to figure out everything else—what platforms to use, how to automate systems, how to price my services fairly but profitably, all while staying on top of trends and remaining authentic. Read more>>
Marquia Watts
Despite her grief, Marquia forged ahead. She began her career leasing apartments, worked her way up to managing apartments in Alpharetta, GA, and bought her first home at just 24. But a few years later, after courageously leaving her full-time job with savings and a clear vision to pursue real estate full time, a $150K investment property disaster would become her greatest teacher. A contractor’s betrayal left the project in ruins — turning what seemed like a promising next step into a crash course in resilience, all while she was planning her wedding. Read more>>
Decardrea Mckay
My parents always pushed us to do anything we wanted no matter what it took. And I do just that! 2018 hurricane Michael came and destroyed my shop. That didn’t stop me; I picked up my pieces expanding to Tampa, Orlando and Miami. Now I have currently expanded to Atlanta! I am a traveling Braider so I’m constantly on the move from state to state! My brother has even joined the team and is cutting hair as well @Donthebarber850!
Marketing is my key to success! Check out my Instagram @thefloridabraider Read more>>
Radreckia Allen-Billings
Once I graduated from high school and learned to walk again, I had one goal: to put my son first and keep him from ending up like I did. Although I had great parents, I learned what adjustments I could make to be better for my son. I ended up falling in love with a childhood friend of mine, and we’ve been together for almost 16 years now. Married with two additional children, my husband and I vowed to push ourselves each year to do better than the last. With that mindset comes PLENTY of risk and setbacks. After a couple of different business ventures, we decided to give the food industry a try. We got into this industry without knowing anyone we could ask questions to. Learning on our own, we learned a lot FAST and took a lot of losses. Now we can reap the fruits of our labor. Read more>>
Michelle
Ha ha ha just a little side humor.. although I really liked the attorney I worked with, I felt there was something more that I was meant to be doing. Something that would have the potential to benefit me in a greater capacity financially, while also giving me the flexibility to spend more time with my children. I knew that being a single parent and being the sole parent the majority of the time, they needed me more. I prayed about the situation and in one week I had three people who did not know each other suggest I get my real estate license. I felt as if that was my answer to prayer, my sign so to speak.. Read more>>
Victoria K
I started my sound healing journey in 2018. I started practicing with Tibetan singing bowls for personal use. Attended a sound bath where a woman played the crystal bowls and that moment changed my life. My friend that I attended the sound bath with experienced the same phenomenon as me. We were in meditation and went into the “white room”. We did not share this information with each other until after the event and were both blown away from where our minds went. Read more>>
Diezie Sahn
I remember when I was 6 or 7 years old in Liberia, attending school with my older brother and little sister. We lived in a small community called 12 Houses. One day, in class, our teacher had us put our names in a jar to perform in a school drama play. When she called on me to play the lead role in a Bible story about King Solomon judging a difficult case, I was devastated and filled with fear. I tried to explain to the teacher why I shouldn’t do it, but she insisted. I even asked my mother to talk to the teacher to get me out of it, but my mother said, “No, you’re doing it.” Read more>>
Karisha Ryan
I am a Speed Waxologist. I Specialize in Brazilian waxes and I’m know as the “Waxer with the Fan”. When I first started waxing I would get so annoyed with putting powder on my sweaty and nervous clients and the powder would cake up and just leave a complete mess all over everything and everyone. So I knew I needed to figure out another way to get through the service that wouldn’t affect my time but assure that the clients was getting what they paid for. So I ordered a mini hand fan with a stand and I began using the fan instead of powder… IT WAS A GAME CHANGER! By Far the BEST decision I had made and it also made me Stand out as a waxer. Read more>>
Richard Charles
Before I ever started building my social media platform or diving into content creation, I had already explored multiple business ventures. I helped with my mom’s candle, soap, and fragrance brand, Anika Essence, and I’ve been involved in our family’s home healthcare business for years. I’ve always had a heart for providing services and creating things that make people feel good. Read more>>
Tonasia Holloman
Eventually, I started to take clients here and there during my junior and senior year of high school. That’s when I notice how easy it was to make money from doing makeup and how much I really enjoyed doing it. It never felt like I was actually working. It felt like I was back in art class, completing another painting. During that time was when I decided that this was the path meant for me. I wanted to eventually become a full time makeup artist. Read more>>
Phantasia Stewart
Doing those auditions helped me grow as an artist. I am more confident than ever now. Being an artist can be difficult at times. Music and people change, buy when there is love involved how could anything go wrong. I eat, sleep, breathe, and think music all day long. I will only get greater. I went from singing background with my cousin to having my own music out for the world to hear. I have dropped multiple singles and 1 EP. My latest single can be found on all platforms “ Back 2 You “- Phantasia. I have my album release coming soon. My very first album, and I’m beyond grateful. My goal is to continue to grow as an artist into the artist I know I’m destined to be. Read more>>
Malik Brown
I have also used the brand for community service drives as WAVY BY NATURE, LLC partnered with churches in the Metro Atlanta area as well as Chicago to donate bookbags and back to school supplies for the youth. During this, we really looked to push the message of finding your own wave and being yourself to the youth as they ae more vulnerable than ever to dealiong with identy issues as they are exposed to much more at younger ages in todays current social climate. Read more>>
Ally Ward
Growing up, I was always the kid drawing on herself in class or scribbling away in my sketchbooks whenever I had the chance. I had always dreamed of working with art, but wasn’t sure if it would be feasible in my life. Along with the pressure of growing up, deciding where to go to college, and thinking of my future career, art was discouraged by some people. It wasn’t consistent enough; it wasn’t a “real” job. That’s when I began looking into tattooing right before my eighteenth birthday and fell in love. Read more>>
Ashlyn Barnell
Marketing, particularly in social media and digital spaces, is an incredibly creative field. I constantly need to come up with fresh, innovative ways to pitch both my company and myself in the ever-evolving social media landscape. Staying ahead of trends, being trend-conscious, and creating clear, engaging content are what set me apart. I have a keen eye for design and aesthetics, but I also focus on connecting with my target audience. I aim to relate to them, showing that I’m here to support them on their journey and help them every step of the way. Read more>>
Coby Mehler
What I didn’t expect was how hard it would be trying to go full-time as a freelance creative. I had moved into a place that was way too expensive, and by the third month, I couldn’t afford rent even with getting consistent work. Every month felt like a race to the finish line – my back would be against the wall and I’d have to figure something out fast. I’d go through my entire contacts list, texting everybody that I knew to shoot something just so I could cover my bills. Read more>>
Nader Bakier
Each project I put out—whether it’s a song like “Mechanic Shop” or a fashion related dance track—has been a stepping stone. I didn’t follow a traditional path; it’s been more about staying true to my own emotions and self expression, even when it didn’t fit the mold. Collaborating with other underground artists, taking DIY approaches, and leaning into authenticity have all helped grow my projects into something with a real voice and a growing online community around it. Read more>>
Isaiah Mitchell-Edge
My entrepreneurial journey started back in 2019 when my mom encouraged me to use my free time to create something profitable and purposeful which spurred the birth of my company, Peace of Mind. From that one moment branched many ventures full of fruits and failures, lots of experiences and memories made. I’m 20 years old and a young author, businessman, content creator, entrepreneur, mentor, and so much more. The best part of all this is that this is only the beginning and I’ve got so far to go! Read more>>
Tresha Vick
My dream of becoming an entrepreneur started in college. I began doing lash extensions, taking all the necessary classes, earning certifications, building a clientele—you name it. I even invested in all the supplies I needed to launch my business. However, after a few months, I ran out of supplies and could no longer do anyone’s lashes. I could have just purchased more supplies, but I didn’t. I kept telling myself I would, but days turned into weeks, weeks into months, and eventually, a year passed. Deep down, I knew I wasn’t going back to lashing. Read more>>
Maurice Stewart
Big shoutout to my brother Ced Sheppard, who opened up his shop to me and let me work hands-on while I figured things out. That experience changed the game. I realized it wasn’t just about pushing my own brand anymore—it was about offering a service to the community. Something real, affordable, and right here at home. Read more>>
Dani Milan
I Sure can! My story is one of faith, resilience, and divine redirection. I didn’t always know exactly where I was headed, but I always knew I was meant to make an impact. A few years ago, I found myself in a season of survival—juggling motherhood, navigating loss, financial stress, and trying to hold on to my peace and purpose. There were moments I almost lost everything: my home, my job, and even my sense of self. But God had other plans. Read more>>
Latifah Bizzell
My first introduction to the industry was auditioning for America’s Next Top Model. My mom would send me on the Greyhound to Houston to stay with my uncle. The first year I was told that I was “too short,” but that didn’t stop me. Each year I’d return with what they said I was missing. I went as far as getting a new ID and adjust my height. I just knew I belonged in this industry but I eventually I got tired of hearing no year after year and that’s when I gave up. That following year is when they introduced the shorter models and I was sick to my stomach. Read more>>
Terry Jones
My name is Terry Jones and I’m the chef and owner of the popular food truck Its Go Thyme and I have become known for my inventive approach to sandwich-making, turning entire meals into unique handheld creations. My culinary journey includes competing on Food Network’s Fire Masters and The Great Food Truck Race, where I showcased my talent and creativity on a national stage. With crowd-pleasers like the Shrimp and Grits Sandwich — featuring grits as buns and a Cajun cream-sauced shrimp patty — I continue to surprise myself and delight food lovers, redefining comfort food in every bite.” Read more>>
Harold Outley
In 2006, I left Detroit and made a few brief stops in Texas, California, and Tennessee before finally landing in Atlanta, GA on June 3rd, 2008. Over the years, I performed spoken word throughout the city, and one day, a young lady asked if I’d be interested in joining a theater production. That moment sparked the beginning of my acting journey. Read more>>
Conjunto 404
We started out as a group of friends at Cristo Rey Atlanta Jesuit High School, just playing guitar together during our free time. What began as casual jam sessions eventually turned into something more serious when we decided to officially form a band in October 2024. The current members are Juan Flores (lead singer), Oscar Avila (bass player), Jeff Villanueva (accordion), Chris Mariano (guitar and saxophone), and Jose Hernandez-Serrano (drummer). Read more>>
Aaron ( Dourjé The Fashion Stylist) Washington
As my reputation grew from my fashion shows, I attracted celebrity clients, including gospel artist Tonya Baker, hair stylist and educator J. Ladner, and podcast creator and owner Ace Metaphor. Recently, I took my talents to Tampa, Florida, where I styled for Tampa Bay Fashion Week. Florida quickly took notice of my work, especially in Tampa and St. Petersburg, thanks to the acclaimed photographer Brian James. Read more>>
Megan Billingsley
In 2015, I spent a year and a half in Austin as a tutor at The Canine Center for Training and Behavior where we worked with dogs using exercise and positive reinforcement to enforce relationships. We practiced the Tellington TTouch method and the John Rogerson theory of showing emotions to reward your dog. Read more>>
Elizabeth Combs
If you’re an impatient person, I would say the journey was tough. However, I’m extremely patient so I don’t think I would describe my journey as a struggle. Of course there were ups and downs. My first entire year of having my business open, I only got one sale. But I didn’t let that deter me. In fact I don’t know why I wasn’t more discouraged due to that. I simply wasn’t. I just kept designing nails and pushing my art out to the world until finally I started getting noticed. Read more>>
Errick Davis
I would say being an actor is all about testing your commitment and faith to this craft. I’ve felt every emotion possible with this craft. Some good, some bad. But the good has definitely outweighed the bad for me. There are some days when I book a big project and I’m so excited and happy. The work that I’ve put in and continue to put in has prepared me for that moment. Then There are times when I’ve cried in the shower and felt like giving up. Then other times I’ve cried with tears of joy because I love it so much. It’s all a test of my commitment and faith in god. Read more>>
Javonte Olds
Before the Covid outbreak, I was working for a warehouse company leading the logistics team and coordinating deliveries. As time went by, I was laid off due to shortness of work. I had no sense of direction. I ran into many obstacles trying to find another job, So, I decided to sign up for door dash and Instacart to makes ends meet and pay my bills at the time, I was constantly out driving all around Atlanta and chasing the bonus Promotions that they had in different areas. Then I realized that I was working longer hours just to make a few hundred dollars. My earnings never grew. Read more>>
KD Strickland
Now, my business has grown into more than just a salon service. I offer custom wigs, quickweaves, extensions, and beauty essentials through DiorrBeaute’Essentials. I also lead a cheer program that empowers young girls through discipline, teamwork, and self-expression. My journey has had its challenges, but every step taught me something valuable. I’m still growing, but I’m proud of how far I’ve come and even more excited for where I’m headed. Read more>>
Jay Bandy
After graduating from U of L, I moved to Atlanta where I took a job with BLIMPIE Subs and Salads where I began my career in food service. I moved a few times with them living in Birmingham, AL, Memphis, TN, Houston, TX and San Antonio, TX. During my tenure there I saw the chain grow from 100 to 2000 restaurants and learned quickly the different facets for the restaurant business including restaurant development, franchising, operations, supply chain, training, and marketing. It was an incredible opportunity for someone just out of college. Read more>>
Andre Melchionda
Having spent some of my childhood in Italy and being exposed to many fresh cuisines, I set out to increase the accessibility and awareness of elusive food products in the U.S. After leaving the corporate world in 2021 to pursue my passion for specialty Italian cuisine products, I soon realized the lack of high quality and luxury products on the market and set out to source the highest quality ingredients on the planet. Read more>>
Brian O’Connell
As an author, I only write about what I know. For Dads Cry Too, I wanted other dads to know that they don’t have to travel their path alone. I’m not a medical professional, just an average guy battling loss each and every day. Read more>>
Kristofer Seppälä
When the pandemic hit in 2020, all of my opportunities at that time in Atlanta had dried up. I’m an American/Finnish dual citizen, so I decided to relocate to Helsinki, Finland. I knew no one in the film industry there and slowly started getting plugged in trying to make it as a screenwriter. There were some great opportunities where I got noticed by certain producers and a couple projects went into development, but they ended up not going through. By the time the pandemic was over, I was back in Atlanta and started getting more involved in writing and directing short plays at various local theater venues. Read more>>
Mandrill Hardge
I’ve been passionate about healthy hair care for as long as I can remember. What began as doing hair for family and friends turned into a full-fledged career rooted in purpose, precision, and a deep love for Black women embracing their natural beauty. After years of perfecting my craft behind the chair and working in high-pressure environments like film and television, I opened MH Concepts Salon Studio in the heart of Midtown Atlanta to create a space where African American women, from college students to professionals, can prioritize their hair’s health without sacrificing style. Read more>>
Caliyah Amanie
Now, I’m passionate about sharing this journey, hoping to help others discover the same peace and value I’ve experienced. Psalms 46:1 resonates deeply in my life, emphasizing the refuge I’ve found in God’s presence. Out of this journey I created The Way and The Light- which helps people of all walks in their relationship with God. This prioritizes providing a space where individuals can receive the Word, find encouragement, and connect with others without fear of judgment. It’s a place where the love of Christ is at the forefront, fostering an environment of acceptance, growth, and genuine fellowship. Read more>>
Angee Melange & Candace Mabry
I’m a Georgia native with a background in Human Resource Management, and I’ve always been passionate about storytelling and creating meaningful content. In 2023, what I thought was just a regular Lyft ride with Angee ended up being anything but ordinary. From the moment we started talking, it felt like a divine connection. We realized we were aligned in so many ways — our values, our vision, and our passion for creating meaningful content. Even though we come from different generations and backgrounds, there was a natural synergy. Angee has this soulful, seasoned perspective, and I bring a fresher, Gen Z lens — together, we realized we could bridge a lot of gaps and reach a lot of different audiences. Read more>>
Wil / Wilfred Prevost
I started making music in my room about 6 years ago and have been improving my sound and quality since then. Growing up in the metro Atlanta area my whole life, I couldn’t help but be drawn to music and creativity of all structures. Recently i started to release my music and post on social media consistently. Within 4 months I’ve grown to 1400 followers and 60,000 views. Releasing 2 songs since March, Much more music is planned and set to be released. Read more>>
Ashley “Ash” Joubert
I didn’t choose this path — this path found me. After experiencing homelessness, battling the weight of single motherhood, and facing systems that tried to silence me, I realized God wasn’t punishing me — He was positioning me. I lost my brother, a military veteran, to suicide — and that pain birthed purpose. I’ve watched communities cry out for justice, for healing, for hope — and I answered with action. Read more>>
Monique And Kevin Bell
That’s when we knew it was time to take a leap and focus on what set us apart. We created a line of signature sauces that quickly became crowd favorites: Buffalo Mild, for those who love great flavor without the heat; Wicked Hot, for the true heat seekers; Hot Lemon Pepper Zest, bringing a lemon- citrusy punch with a kick of heat; and Twisted Teriyaki, our sweet-and-savory blend with a little edge. Coming soon to our sauce collection is our new NIL Basketball Collaboration, DT3- Hot BBQ Fusion Sauce, bringing the sweetness of honey BBQ with the sting of heat! Each one is crafted with intention, love, and the goal of bringing people together around great food. Read more>>
Dylan Banks
It has been anything but smooth to be honest. Atlanta has always been a place of excitement and have had some wonderful opportunities, but I feel arts in general are in a disadvantage in the U.S. these days, and even more so an uphill battle for contemporary artists in the South. We lack a lot of the atrtistic infrastructure many other cities like NYC or Chicago have. But I also feel like some of the harder road has helped mold me to be just more persistent, but I always tell folx the path to success has been paved through consistent failures. I treat success like a batting average rather than a letter grade. Read more>>
Jamison Moore
Absolutely not! My biggest obstacle by far has been comparison. I’ve always had a strong desire to succeed and impress people, but that sometimes leads to high standards, and you guessed it, comparison. Sometimes, I would compare my film project to someone else’s, or I would judge my acting performance against someone else’s. But through the various comparisons I made, I learned that comparing myself to others is nothing but a waste of time. I still struggle with it, but I’m much more content and grateful than I was years ago. Read more>>
Noelle Lucas
From running a candle business in 2019 to now leading one of Atlanta’s top emerging influencer marketing agencies. Vibeology began as a social media marketing agency, but after my experience serving as Deputy Director of Influencer Marketing for the Harris-Walz Campaign, I realized where my true passion lies: in building meaningful relationships between brands and people. That insight led to our agency’s pivot toward influencer strategy and talent partnerships, and it’s been the best decision yet. Read more>>
Miracle Alston
As an adult, I felt myself struggling even more with depression, anxiety, paranoia, suicidal ideation and pressure to have my whole life and things all figured out.That is when I came across the Unalome symbol, This changed my whole perspective and made me be able to give myself some grace in this journey of life. I started working at a Candle shop when I was in my twenties which is where my love for candle making was born. It was one of the only times that the world would slow down and I could breathe and fully take in the moment. This is what inspired Unalome Candle Company. Read more>>
Marcelo Lopez
After starting my freelance career at the age of 15, I always had the desire to eventually come to the United States to realize my true potential and study the career of my dreams. In my last year of high school my father suffered from COVID and then a heart attack (which to this day I’m surprised he survived that), due to that big event my dreams were getting further and further away, we owed money to the school so my certificate which gave me the opportunity to study was withheld. Read more>>
Maddy Yangnouvong
Months went by, and I still couldn’t stop thinking about how that one class made me feel. It stuck with me in the best way, and I knew I wanted to be part of it in a bigger way. So, I took a leap and sent the team a message on Instagram, along with a two-minute video recording where I pitched myself, shared my passion, and explained how I could help grow their brand and spread their mission. Read more>>
Jeff Atwood
No it hasn’t been smooth or easy. There is a tremendous presence of competing restoration companies. My challenge has been to set myself apart with best practices and attention to how our work impacts the health of those living in these affected properties. There are many bad players in the restoration industry. Some of them untrained. Some of them predatory often putting profit above their clients who are victims of some sort of property disaster. I try to bring industry expertise, along with empathy to care for their needs. Sometimes, I have had to do work pro-bono for individuals who had no available resources, but they certainly deserved a healthy solution to their problem. Read more>>
Dianai
Yeah there’s always challenges and there’s always room for improvement and learning. I used to really struggle with the business aspect of it all because it is a lot of work for just one person but there is a lot that I have learned and that has made me appreciate my work a lot more and ultimately makes me work harder because I know that I can overcome difficult situations. Everything comes down to me asking myself if this is all worth it and I can confidently say that it is. Read more>>
Cassieandre & Stormie Lamar Jones
But it wasn’t just about helping—it was about learning. My mom always made sure I understood the “why” behind everything, because she wanted me to know how to run a business. She built everything with me in mind, knowing one day I would inherit and continue the legacy. In 2018, she founded Pink Caviar Lash & Brow Spa, and just two years later, during the height of the pandemic in 2020, Pink Caviar University was born. Read more>>
Mami Popo
I was a photographer before I started DJing so I essentially already had connections in the nightlife industry, and once I started posting DJ content on my page that took off more than my photography did. I had my first gig October 2024, and recently I/ve been able to play at Rock Steady, The Trap music Museum, and even get my own Studio Session for Cam Kirk. So it’s crazy seeing how quick this is all picking up. Seems meant to be honestly. Read more>>
Justin Douglas
After moving to Atlanta, I dove into the beauty scene and spent eight years with MAC Cosmetics, which taught me so much about craft, client connection, and professionalism. But I knew I had more to offer; my own voice, my own style. That’s when I really started leaning into my signature: soft glam with a pop. It’s clean, elevated, but always with a little unexpected energy and that’s me in a nutshell. Read more>>
Lenor Penferd
While some chase the glitz and glam for attention, I stayed grounded I got here by being myself. Writing books became more than a hustle it became a passion something my wife Ebony Penferd helped bring out of me. That passion evolved into something even bigger “Bubba” the cartoon series dropping this the month of August Read more>>
Anoushka Darlene Braganza
Hello! I’m Anoushka Darlene Braganza, an experiential and object designer. My formal journey began when I joined an interior design program in Mumbai, where I found my place, excelling not only in academics but also in hands-on studio work. What excited me most wasn’t just creating beautiful spaces but creating spaces that made people feel something. I’ve always believed that the environments we build or choose to inhabit reflect something deeply personal about who we are. For me, design became a tool to express, evoke, and connect. Read more>>
Noah Schoper
I like to keep myself busy, so I also have a lot of side projects I’m working on outside of my studies. I’ve been working closely with local artist Innate on his new project, and both of his last two singles from the album feature my artwork on the cover. I also have a website where I sell merchandise with designs I’ve created, multiple of which are collaborations with Innate. I’m submitting some of my work to multiple galleries this year, and I’m also working on an anthology book project with other local illustrators. Read more>>
Phor Popes
Notable highlights of his career include becoming a father to a beautiful child named Micah Dejesus Villa, establishing a fashion center nurturing the youth in his community, and receiving recognition from prestigious platforms like The Source and nominations for Designer of the Year in Boston. His designs have graced international runways from London to New York, catching the eye of renowned fashion houses like Dior. Read more>>
Pha Baby
No way! Is there anyone who can truly answer yes I wonder? lol if so they’re likely not being honest or fully realized as of yet. The journey has been long, taxing, and daunting at times. From dealing with financial insecurities, scam artists preying or manipulating your aspirations, having little to no support from my immediate family, and reaching closed doors, learning I had unrealized self worthiness issues, and experiencing drought and stagnation amidst a pandemic and two industy strikes while surviving the pursuit of the dream has been a roller coaster. I rely on faith heavily to continue to see the goals I’ve set to fruition. Read more>>
David Heyton
I grew up in lilburn area then moved to suwanee, when I was in high school I started playing guitar in bands with high school friends. When I graduated I took a year off and then applied to berklee college of music and got accepted but couldn’t go due to financial troubles. I then moved to Nashville in 2020 and played a couple gigs there but then covid came and all the shows stopped so I moved back to Georgia where I’ve been playing acoustic and band gigs with local atl musicians trying to make a name for myself. I’m working on writing my own music and still playing with my band at different venues around atl. Read more>>
Heartbreak P BOI
You have to build your name to even help out others . So I would say the bumps in the road would be … “ PLEASING OTHERS “ .. knowing that your here to help others along their lives , So you really put you last after you build yourself up . if that’s makes sense. Read more>>
JASMIN BRYANT
It is not a smooth ride… it’s like driving down Peachtree Road. You might have some smooth sailing, then a few potholes or hazards in the lane before things clear up again. Either way, you’re navigating and dodging as you move forward. Some of the struggles in my business have been not getting new products or services sold, even when they’re something that has been requested. Another struggle has been hiring people who didn’t work out (aka — wasting money!!) whether it’s coaches and consultants (because we all need coaches) or virtual assistants. Read more>>
Yesteryear ATL
We help emerging local emcees in the areas of distribution and promotion through a bevy of resources and connections we have at our disposal. We look to only publish neutral editorials as look to be a positive and neutral representation of the public consciousness. We’re a black-owned hosting service looking to set the standard for platforming local artists and spreading their music to democratize the market, especially when it comes to blogs snd controlling the narrative for the culture. Read more>>
Gabrielle Robinson Dukes
I completely turned things up for many years, I can recall working 16+ hour days from the house as a stylist. I began having so many clients, from all walks of life! In that time, I met a client who turned me to music and brought me into the studio. From that first studio session, I knew I wanted to take on music! Since 2020, I’ve released several singles along with a mixtape project and another project in the works for this year. I know that no matter what route life takes me in, I will be great and greatness is in store for me. With keeping God at the head of my life, my wife, mother, sister, and niece as my biggest support system, it all will work out! Read more>>
