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.
Yudenia Guerra
The struggles for example external factors as well heartbreak, going broke, homelessness, divorces, loosing family/friends ,being layed off, bad credit. Any and ALL challenges are apart of your growth and evolutionary processes. Having a perspective shift helps you incorporate them into something greater than you can even imagine. Read more>>
King Davis
I am King Davis an upcoming and aspiring fashion designer from Dublin Ga, who recently relocated a year ago to Atlanta Ga . I have been going since 13, I started from dispatched denim to now , manufactured clothing . Only at 17 I have done multiple Fashion shows , with me highlighting as one of my very own models . The spins, turns, with the swag and unique looks attract the audience . MAKE ATLANTA SLIME AGAIN , My recent drop brings swag back to the scene of Atlanta . Recently, I was featured in the moment fashion show over 120+ brands and creatives . Slime Intentionz “Fxk trump “ double layered is live now , You can find the site at slimeintentions.com Read more>>
King Edward
I graduated from New Manchester Performing Arts High School in 2019. Later in 2019, I got accepted and attended Georgia State University with a major of Music Theory & Composition, and I was part of the Georgia State Panther Marching and Basketball Band. Since then, I have done background and stand-in work on multiple tv and movie sets. I have produced for multiple musical artists and scored for different films. I started DJing in Atlanta 3 to 4 years ago and have become a well known DJ in Atlanta working with multiple event/club promoters. I have also become multiple artist’s musical director including Netflix’s Rhythm & Flow Season 2 Winner “DreTL”. And I’m just getting started. Read more>>
Natalie Southwell
That’s when I saw an ad for a program that offered a glimmer of hope. I made a decision to invest in myself—and it changed everything. The training gave me space to breathe, to heal, and to reflect. I eventually took a leave of absence to continue the journey inward. When I returned to work, I was not the same woman. The role no longer fit who I had become. I didn’t want to perform or prove myself anymore—I wanted peace Read more>>
Sania Irfan
There are so many aspects to consider, making sure the client and I are on the same page. Bringing their vision to life on the canvas, and ensuring they get what they truly want. Sometimes, I also have to explain that what they’re asking for may not always be the most aesthetically pleasing, and I help guide them toward a design that will look beautiful in their space. I’ve also had to think carefully about the right dimensions for their needs and make sure the finished piece is packed safely, shipped securely, and delivered without damage. Read more>>
Derek Whitner
We had been married for over a year and were both doing well in our corporate careers by the time I had that marathon workday. Long hours at my job as a corporate controller were not out of the ordinary, but that day was unreal. Lavenia and I had both previously started investing in real estate years earlier, long before the recession. Those recession years presented challenges to successful investing, but we both adapted to make it through and eventually were thriving. Over the years together, we continued balancing investing in real estate with our full-time careers, and I had gotten my real estate license as well. We often talked about leaving behind our corporate careers to focus on real estate full-time, but never took the leap. Read more>>
Nia Hill
After completing a study abroad program in Spain, I moved to Atlanta in 1994—a pivotal moment that reshaped my vision for the future. For the first time, I witnessed the thriving success of Black-owned businesses. I saw people who looked like me building, leading, and owning their place in the city’s landscape. It was an inspiring revelation that helped me see new possibilities for myself and set me on the path I’m on today. Read more>>
Brendon White
Growing Up With A Speech Impediment Was Challenging Because People Made Fun Of Me And I Didn’t Have A lot Of Confidence So I Grew Up Fighting And Also My Brother (Mj) Always Was Knocking People Out Behind Me Cause He Would Notice I’ll Be Mad And In My Feeling And He Don’t Play About Me N Vice Versa ! But I Felt Silenced As A Child But Now That I’m Confident With My Speech Impediment Everything Been Pretty Smooth Now That I’m Confident In My Speech ! And If Your Reading This And Have A Speech Impediment Just Keep Talking And Build Your Confidence The Ladies Love It Lol. Read more>>
AG
Now, let me keep it real—it wasn’t easy. A lot of people didn’t believe in me at first. I heard it all: “You’re just a host,” “You don’t have what it takes,” “It’s too competitive.” But I didn’t let that shake me. While others were partying, I was locked in my dorm room, day and night, teaching myself the craft. I practiced for hours on end—learning blends, transitions, how to build a set that tells a story. I sacrificed a lot, but I never stopped grinding. Read more>>
Briar Blakley
I also love supporting local social justice and food justice causes. One organization that’s been especially meaningful to me is the Federation of Southern Cooperatives/Land Assistance Fund. Their mission focuses on fostering self-supporting communities through cooperative economic development, land retention, and advocacy for socially disadvantaged farmers, ranchers, cooperatives, and landowners. I love lending my voice to causes that matter to me and make a difference in my community. Read more>>
404 Blac
Going through life problems while trying to stay focused will always be a challenge but I must say I’ve gotten better with this I took breaks in the past and didn’t like the results I guess I’ve trained myself not to be nonchalant but somewhat ignore life problems temporarily to stay focused on the bigger picture basically I put my sanity, peace of mind, and energy first because without that how could anything ever go right? Read more>>
Brandi Maddox
I never knew where I belonged for many years…and that loneliness felt debilitating at times; but I did know early on the traditional American school structure wasn’t helpful for me and that I could accomplish so much more if I could graduate early. I had to learn to embrace the unorthodox route- it seems to be the lane that best fits my journey. Luckily, my mother was optimistic about my talent and took a huge gamble by unenrolling me from the school system and homeschooled me my sophomore year of high school. I was able to graduate two years early at age 16, and immediately started cosmetology school two months later. I am so appreciative and fortunate to have had that opportunity. Read more>>
Atali Callaway
Oh absolutely not. I believe that for me I would have a hard time fully believing in myself and my work. More so over thinking and second guessing. Creative blockage is a real thing. When I would get this, I would feel over whelmed, and unmotivated. I over come this feeling by stepping back and re-centering myself. Read more>>
Valenche (Che’) Cartledge
My name is Valenche’ Cartledge. I go by Che’ for short (pronounced “Shay”). I was raised in Thomson, Georgia, a small town where community and creativity quietly shaped my early years. After graduating from Thomson High School, I moved to Albany, GA to attend the Unsinkable Albany State University — a place that gave me both educational and cultural experiences, and where I earned my degree in Marketing. That foundation in strategy, branding, and communication would later become the backbone of my business, even before I knew exactly what I was building. Read more>>
Justin Bishop
The journey has definitely had its moments. It’s been hard, but not unbearable. I jumped into this industry with no prior experience and no clear examples to follow, so I was constantly carving out my own path based on the limited information available to me. I had to fail a few times in order to figure things out — but over time, it became about how quickly I could recognize the roadblocks, adapt, and minimize those failures. Read more>>
John Hall
In 2024 I started The United Brotherhood of America with this same purpose. We will have a number of projects such panel discussions, neighborhood cleanups, networking events, community education on various topics, scholarship drives and more! We currently have 4 founding members and are looking for a few more. We are also actively soliciting for new members. Today, The United Brotherhood of America is a growing organization with promise and vision ready to serve our communities and strengthen Black men. Read more>>
Abdul Chestnut
My journey began in Philadelphia, born into a family deeply rooted in music and creativity. My father and uncle, known as The Chestnut Brothers, were respected musicians who used their art to inspire peace and unity. Their musical projects—particularly the release of their EP “Peace Suite” in 2001 and “Retro Soul” in 2009—had a major influence on me, both creatively and spiritually. Read more>>
Darnell Dugger
At 19 years old, I joined the Army and served in Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2009. After completing my military service, I started a career in IT, working my way up to become a software support engineer. Throughout this time, I always carried a dream of farming, and sheep eventually became my passion. I found my land through Georgia Farm Link, an organization that connects landowners with new generation farmers like myself. I started with just 9 sheep, and in only a few months, I’ve already grown my flock to over 20 animals. This journey from soldier to tech professional to farm business owner represents my path to fulfilling a lifelong dream of working the land. Read more>>
La Sliimsation
Now, we have more people appreciating diversity and cultural diffusion. A perfect example is moving here, expecting to only hear Rap, Hip-Hop and R&B however, some clubs and lounges actually play Hispanic/Latino hits even if it is a crowd that may not understand the lyrics, the still vibe out to it. I hope to one day DJ for my favorite artists like Tyler The Creator, a homage event to Aaliyah or an event for Bachata lovers in Atlanta but also grow as a DJ and host my own events that uplift that diversity within music as well. Read more>>
Sal Hemani
At InterSpine, our clinical expertise spans the full spectrum of acute and chronic pain conditions. We specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of spine-related disorders, including herniated discs, sciatica, spinal stenosis, facet joint arthritis, sacroiliac (SI) joint dysfunction, and degenerative disc disease. We also treat neuropathic pain syndromes such as complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), postherpetic neuralgia, and diabetic neuropathy. In addition, we provide care for musculoskeletal conditions such as osteoarthritis, tendonitis, bursitis, and myofascial pain. Read more>>
Diana Slaughter
It has not always been a smooth road as a Booktok influencer. People do not realize that it is like a second job! I absolutely enjoy reading and talking about books but as an ER nurse, I work 7/12 hour shifts on and then 7 days off. The 7 that I work on is grueling and I do not get a lot of reading done. Also, once you hit all the followers/Booktok besties I have, you are pulled in a lot of directions and you want to help everyone but you just need more time in the day. Read more>>
Kimberly Madden
I made a drastic decision to change careers and relocate to Atlanta back in 2014. I had been working in Information Technology as a Network Engineer. Real Estate had always been an extreme interest of mine, but I didn’t know how I would be able to comfortably change careers. One day, I just decided to do it uncomfortably. I got a phone call from a friend in Atlanta who was a property manager for a property that wasn’t performing well financially. He asked me if I would come to work for him. I took a pay cut. I went into sales as a leasing consultant. While I was in that role, I decided to take the real estate Pre-Licensing course. It was very tough because I took night classes for 6 weeks. Read more>>
Simone Sharice
I started by sharing hair tutorials from my bedroom, just being myself and hoping to help someone feel more confident. That passion eventually grew into a full-time career as a beauty, wellness, and lifestyle creator. I launched my hair brand, Soft Muse, became a certified Pilates instructor, and I’m now building Sundai Olive, a health and wellness brand rooted in Pilates, mindful movement, and intentional living. Read more>>
Penny Bell
Growing up watching her create her own products inspired me to do the same. My hair growth products made its first entrance into Beauty World located in Smithfield, NC the year of 2020. After selling out of my hair growth products in just 1 week & a half they called me back for a re stock & I’ve been supplying hair stores ever since. I now work with a total of 38 beauty supply stores in the USA. Not only do I supply beauty supply stores I am also a hair care vendor for 2 public schools in-the Columbia, SC area. I launched my very first hair care book in 2024 & it made its entrance into the first local library in Columbia, SC and is now in a total of 3 libraries in Columbia. Read more>>
Jacara Freeman
So now, I’m a full-body waxer! I made a pivot from facials to waxing, and I truly believe it was God’s plan all along—because no facial spa would hire me. And now? I absolutely love waxing! I specialize in Brazilian waxing and also help women who struggle with hyperpigmentation all over their bodies. Read more>>
Sunny
Over the years, I moved from bartending to managing bars to event coordination – soaking up every angle of the business. But it wasn’t until I moved from Austin to Marietta that I dove into event bartending—and it completely changed the game for me. I worked with an amazing company for about three years and really learned the ropes and most importantly, how meaningful this work can be. It’s not just about mixing drinks—it’s about creating connection. Read more>>
Andrew Foah
What sets JRich apart is his genuine advocacy for creative professionals. He’s been a tireless voice ensuring that our solutions truly serve the community rather than just extracting value from it. This authentic commitment resonates with our clients, who can sense when someone genuinely understands their struggles. Read more>>
Karen Marie
For me, success isn’t just about great hair—it’s about how I make my clients feel, inside and out. I take pride in being more than a stylist; I strive to be a source of support, encouragement, and care. Whether my clients are celebrating life’s highs or navigating its challenges, I’m honored to be there—not just to help them achieve their hair goals, but sometimes their life goals, too. Even if it’s just offering a listening ear, I believe in creating a space where beauty and connection go hand in hand. Read more>>
Wally Sparks
In addition to his work as a touring DJ, Wally is the creator and curator of Twankle & Glisten, a high-energy, DJ-driven dance party that celebrates the legacy of Southern hip-hop and R&B. Debuting in 2024, the event has become a must-attend experience, featuring world-renowned DJs and nostalgic music selections that transport audiences to the golden era of Southern rap. With its success, Twankle & Glisten is expanding into new markets and formats, making waves as a premier nightlife brand. Read more>>
Krysana Maragh
Before we can pick up a camera, we have to be certain that the story is sound on the page and producible at scale which requires workshopping. For some, opening yourself to criticism can be uncomfortable or even annoying. But for me, it’s crippling. I’m terrified that people might not understand, or tear apart what I’ve created or minimize what I’m attempting to do. It’s a vulnerable endeavor but a necessary one in order to gauge my efficacy. The trick I’ve learned is to decide which voices are worth listening to and always prioritizing my own. Read more>>
Constance Zelaya
I’m originally from Roosevelt Long Island NY born and raised to a single mom I always knew from a young age that I wanted to be in performing arts I was always in talent shows dancing or singing so it came natural to me to become an actress I started by being a featured video vixen I have worked with notable artists you can find me on YouTube world star hip hop bet plus Tubi and many more platforms Read more>>
Devon Johnson
If you spend enough time outside you’ll realize this is a commuter city, everyone be everywhere lol. You might live in Gwinnett but be in Atlanta more than people that live there and vice versa, just depends of what you have going on. The region I’m speaking of is every county that shares a direct border with Fulton, 11 counties total. It’s a huge area but I promise you, once you’ve lived out here for a couple years it all kinda feels like one big place. Regardless of what narratives they push it really is one of the best metro areas to live in, that’s why they keep moving here. Read more>>
Milla Rosen
Born in the USSR, Milla began her career in a completely different field. She earned a Master’s Degree in Electrical Engineering and worked for 10 years in the technical world. But her lifelong passion for beauty and art eventually led her to pursue her true calling. Her career in the beauty industry began as a makeup artist with the prestigious Trish McEvoy brand. Soon after, she earned her esthetician license and developed a strong foundation in skincare. Read more>>
Aliyah Parker
My work as a content creator is rooted in authenticity, relatability, and connection. I create lifestyle and commentary videos that reflect real experiences, real thoughts, and real humor. Whether I’m sharing personal stories, reacting to the latest trends, or just having fun on camera, I want my audience to feel like they’re spending time with a friend—someone who gets it. Read more>>
Councilwoman, Keosha Bell
Currently serving as Councilwoman for the City of South Fulton’s District 5, representing over 115,000 residents, Keosha brings more than two decades of leadership in education, workforce development, and criminal justice reform. Her background includes over 15 years in post-secondary education (including her leadership in Admissions with Herzing University), 20 years in workforce and career development, and experience as a Legal Assistant in civil, criminal, and personal injury law. Read more>>
Danielle Singleton
My name is Danielle Singleton Battle, but I write under my maiden name as Danielle Singleton. I grew up in the suburbs of Atlanta and now live in Buckhead with my husband and two children. I am a former corporate lawyer and now work full-time as a mom and an author. I have written and published 7 novels and 1 children’s book. My 2nd children’s book comes out this month (May 20th) and my 8th novel is due to come out in early September. Read more>>
Wesley Fowler
He later joined Spalding, where he was instrumental in signing high-profile NBA players—including Paul Pierce, Gilbert Arenas, and Greg Oden—to endorsement deals. His work elevated the brand’s visibility and credibility across the league. At Russell Athletic, he further expanded his expertise in athlete partnerships and licensing, developing relationships with some of the biggest names in professional and collegiate sports. Read more>>
DJ Zelle
Upon graduating from Tuskegee University, I worked for Apple during the day and would DJ at night but every time I had a customer I would give them my DJ business card with my contact info, links to my social media, and mixes. I have gained even bigger clientele and notoriety from just networking and making it a habit passing out my business cards. One thing that also has brought me so far is my ability to entertain a crowd. I go above and beyond to provide an experience by hyping up the crowd with my voice and also leaving the DJ booth to dance with the crowd. My goal is to make sure everyone has fun and enjoys themselves during my sets. Read more>>
BAYA LOPEZ
But everyone was against me. My husband, my peers—nobody believed it would work. I remember feeling the doubt creeping in, but one day, I heard the Holy Spirit tell me to take everything I had financially and invest it into Dream Room. I was terrified, but I listened. The more time and energy I poured into the venue, the more I pulled away from construction—and my husband wasn’t happy. He couldn’t understand why I was “wasting money” on an idea when we were already making great money in construction. Read more>>
Brandon Gardner
Throughout my childhood, I never participated in any “automotive clubs” or events throughout middle and high school. I always went to car shows with my dad, but my friends never liked cars, or at least the way I did. I assume that was partially because we couldn’t drive at the time. Instead, I was a band kid. There’s nothing wrong with that; it taught me a ton about being a human and working as a team. But I still continuously loved cars, sim racing, and even participating in esports drifting events. In 2020, as a teenager with no responsibilities during the pandemic, I put in the hours and learned a lot about sim racing. Read more>>
Marquarius Johnson
I started off in my hometown, Birmingham, Alabama. I use to work my regular 9-5 shifts. I’ve always had a passion for acting. On my free time, or while on my shift. I would always find ways to shoot a short skit for my online supporters. I then had an era where I would recreate celebrity wardrobes in a parody way. After that, I then switched over to hair tutorials with voiceover story times. After all the time of producing content. I began to feel drained of working my job and also trying to produce consistent content at the same time. I then decide to apply for jobs in Atlanta, to began working from there and to have better networking opportunities. Read more>>
Baby Egypt
Losing my mother in 2021-22 was a lot for me. Never really having stability moving around as a jit all the time never really having any real long term friendships. Going to jail for mistaken identity one and having to deal with probation. Getting hit by a car in California In 2022 and dealing with the case for years. Read more>>
DJ Jeyaram
When our son was first diagnosed with a rare genetic condition 15 years ago, my wife and I were lost, confused, and literally didn’t even know where to start. At that time, I had been practicing healthcare, corporate and regulatory law for nearly 10 years and had just opened my own practice. We quickly realized after our son was diagnosed, that we wanted to legally help families like ours, so we shifted the focus of my firm to advocating for and protecting special needs families. Fifteen years later, we continue to help special needs families put into place legal protections. It is an area of the law we are passionate about and truly enjoy. Read more>>
Krystal Alston
It wasn’t until I designed the florals for our wedding that something clicked for me. I realized, this is exactly what I want Rose & Sage Decor to be. I’ve always had a creative side, even while pursuing a career in science, but working with florals unlocked a different part of me. It was the process of combining textures, colors, and stems that felt both artistic and therapeutic. Seeing our wedding come to life made me realize I didn’t just enjoy floral design, I was passionate about it. I didn’t want to stop at creating for my own wedding, I wanted to create for others too. Read more>>
Sagexthegod
Some struggles I faced? Struggles within self mostly. Its a lot of uncertainty when taking a leap of faith, and believing in yourself. I feel like I feel my ancestors slapping the back of my neck and saying “Don’t you dare give up!” LOL… My biggest hurdle of starting my business was out of pocket cost. I didn’t have access to the resources to jump start everything so I had to get real creative in ways to fund what I wanted to do. It has been a journey that I appreciate! The good, and the bad. I have learned so much because these things wasn’t taught to me growing up so I’ve made a lot mistakes when starting my business. So has it been a smooth road? No! This road definitely has some potholes, but that’s comes with the life we ask for sometimes. Its a journey I’m willing to see through. Read more>>
Onyx Middleton
Onyx’s journey with Anti-NMDA Receptor Encephalitis took a rapid and terrifying turn on February 9, 2024. She had come home from Clark Atlanta University for the weekend, and within just 30 minutes of her arrival, she began exhibiting alarming signs of distress, marked by unexplainable outbursts and screams of pain. This sudden and severe change prompted an immediate rush to the emergency room. Tragically, our initial experience with the first hospital involved a misdiagnosis of schizophrenia without proper triage, resulting in a distressing weekend spent in a behavioral mental health facility against our wishes. Read more>>
