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.
Sarah-Anne Wildgoose
NP Medical was a client for over 5 years, collaborating on tradeshow assets, slide decks, and brochures. Packaging projects blended my Industrial and Graphic Design skills. After working with Kochek for three years, I accepted their offer to take on a full-time Marketing and Design role, developing strategy and designing catalogs, brochures, logos, sell sheets, packaging, and more for their five divisions, while teaching for 23 years at the Rhode Island School of Design. Read more>>
Germani Hunt
With that mission in mind, I founded W.E.S. Logistics LLC, a last-mile delivery company built on the values of excellence, service, and community. W.E.S. stands for “We Exceed Standards,” but the name also honors my greatest inspiration—my son Wesley. The company is a reflection of my passion for people, and everything we do is grounded in a strong family-oriented culture. I’m incredibly grateful for the unwavering support of my parents, my husband of 11 years, Jared, and our 7-year-old son, who all continue to inspire and motivate me daily. Read more>>
Mecca Wy’Asia
I’ve dealt with a lot being an artist. You have to have a thick skin in this line of work, because people are either going to gravitate towards you or they’re not. You may have a show, and it may seem like no one is rocking with your music, but you have to have that confidence in yourself, or otherwise you’ll crumble. I’ve just learned that I can only be me, and that’s more than enough. Read more>>
Connor Goodman
Up next… business school. I received my MBA in marketing in 2015 and have been working professionally in that field since. Thankfully, I never stopped making my art. In FEB of 2020 I dove into NFTs strictly for the utility of blockchain technology enabling a chain of provenance and uniqueness for digital art, and royalties for the artists on secondary markets. This has been a major artistic focus for me ever since; creating art digitally, minting on blockchains, and occasionally pairing the digital work with a canvas edition. Read more>>
Arturo Cruz
My name is Arturo Cruz. My love for the game drove me to play at the highest levels, from reaching Nationals as a youth player, earning a call-up to the U.S. Youth National Team Pool, excelling in the NCAA Division II Elite Eight and Peach Belt Conference (PBC) Regular Season Championship , being named Freshman Player of the Year at Clayton State University, and eventually playing professionally with the Atlanta Silverbacks. Read more>>
Alexis Zellars
I started working in early childhood education in 2010 shortly after having my first daughter. What began as a way to provide for my family quickly turned into me finding my purpose and calling in life. Over the years, I’ve worn many hats in the field substitute teacher, infant teacher, toddler teacher, preschool teacher, assistant director, and center director. Each role taught me something different, but one thing stayed the same: I was passionate about creating nurturing, safe, and enriching environments where early learners can grow and thrive. Read more>>
Jasmine (Jmarie) Shavers
The only true obstacle was me. I believe that had I had more people verbal about their doubts, I could have gone harder. I possibly would have started sooner. I think it’s because I thrived in chaos, confusion, and rejection. I’ve always been the warrior and didn’t know how to be the queen. Once upon a Time, I didn’t value peace. I thought that power was loud. I thought that strength was against all odds. When that couldn’t be further from the truth. Read more>>
Lisa O’Shea
After moving to Atlanta in 2013, I joined the wonderful team at Area4 Salon. After 8 great years with Robbi Hutchins and the crew there, it was time to go off on my own. That’s when Homespun began! Now I share a beautiful space with a couple great stylists. We all operate our own businesses under the same roof. It was important to me to be in a shared space with positive people. You have to keep learning in this field, and watching others work is a fun way to do that! I also value the opportunity for creative collaboration. Read more>>
A’Miracle Fagan
There weren’t a lot of artistic opportunities in Mississippi, so I knew at a young age that I wanted to set myself up for success so that I could move somewhere where I could work hard, but play harder in the performing arts. I have a Bachelor of Finance, a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance Performance and Choreography, and a Master of Science in Economic Development. In undergrad, I got an internship with the firm that I work for now, and I am the Regional Project Director. Because my job is entirely remote, I was able to move to Atlanta and pursue my passions in dance, modeling, and acting. I have been so grateful to have had opportunities in all areas of my passions. Read more>>
Leeyah
Whew! It’s been a journey, one that’s been divinely ordered and deeply refining. Leaving Pennsylvania and coming to Atlanta at 19, I was already enrolled at the Jean Madeline Aveda Institute in Philly. I found myself and my family relocating suddenly to Atlanta. It was so sudden I was handling re-enrollment to Aveda Institute on Peachtree through email, grit, and grace. God blessed me enough for my passion to be my purpose, it has always felt like a calling. Now at almost 8 years as a licensed cosmetologist, the journey has been anything but linear. Read more>>
Dr. Ashley & Jordan Harper
My husband and I had dreamed of opening our chiropractic practice ever since I was in chiropractic school. We knew we wanted to serve a community to help them thrive in their health and wellness. When I graduated from chiropractic school, I got a great opportunity from my internship to work as an associate chiropractor. While I was an associate, I learned a lot about how to care for all types of people, from pregnant women to babies and kids with an assortment of issues. Also, how to run a very successful family wellness practice. After 5 years of working as an associate, we were ready to open our own office. Read more>>
Shweta Arora Bajaj
At Shweta’s Gourmet Chocolates, we create handcrafted Belgian chocolates with a unique twist—blending Indian flavors, premium nuts, dried fruits, and clean ingredients. Each piece is thoughtfully made in small batches to deliver an indulgent, elevated chocolate experience. From traditional favorites to bold, alcohol-infused creations, our chocolates celebrate quality, culture, and creativity in every bite. Read more>>
Leah Gordone
Not at all—it’s been a journey filled with both triumphs and trials. Like many creators, I started with limited resources and had to learn everything from video editing to audience engagement on my own. There were moments of self-doubt, especially when growth was slow or when I faced criticism online. Navigating the digital space as a Black woman also came with its own set of challenges, from combating stereotypes to ensuring my voice was heard and respected. Read more>>
Andrea Dempsey
Even as I followed a more traditional path — studying business at Ohio State and spending eight years in marketing and sales back in Atlanta — that love for animals never left. To stay connected to it, I fostered over a dozen dogs and cats through Lifeline and Atlanta Humane. That’s where I discovered the emotional side of animal welfare, especially Fear Free practices, which focus on reducing fear, anxiety, and stress in pets. While this approach was common in shelters and vet clinics, I noticed it was missing in everyday pet care services. Read more>>
Faikat Moliki
started my career in tech after earning a degree in Computer Science and Media Informatics. Over the years, I’ve worn many hats — from software engineer to UX designer to AI engineer and more to now an operations leader in the aerospace industry. I’ve always been drawn to understanding how things work and how people interact with systems — which is probably why I’ve thrived in roles that sit at the intersection of tech, human experience, and strategy. Read more>>
Yessica Rojas
Absolutely! I’ve always loved art—it runs deep in my roots. I’m a proud Caribbean Colombian, and growing up there meant being surrounded by vivid colors, music, and a natural flow of creativity everywhere I looked. Whether it was street murals, festivals, or the vibrant fabrics, art was always present. I spent hours with coloring books as a child, completely absorbed in mixing colors and bringing pages to life. It was my happy place. Read more>>
Caroline Porsiel
At House of Applejay, we specialize in crafting premium, all-natural liqueurs. As a self-described liqueurist, I focus on blending and balancing complex ingredients to create spirits that elevate cocktails or can be savored on their own. Liqueur-making is the oldest spirits category, dating back over 700 years, and it’s also the most complex—there are literally thousands of ingredients that can be used to create a diverse range of liqueurs. The term “liqueurist” was introduced by myself and my mother, Sabine Porsiel, to define our craft. Unlike distillers who focus on base spirits like whiskey, vodka, or gin, a liqueurist specializes in crafting liqueurs—spirits sweetened and naturally flavored with fruits, herbs, spices, or botanicals. Read more>>
Cayla Tomas
Since meeting my husband, we’ve rarely relied on over-the-counter medicine, so I was already familiar with the value of natural remedies. Then, in May 2022, I found out I was pregnant. That moment became a catalyst for going even deeper into the world of herbs—especially as I navigated the challenges of morning sickness during my first trimester and sought safe, natural ways to support my body throughout pregnancy. Read more>>
Kim Lewis
Fast forward to 1998….I was invited to become a board member at the Bartow County Women’s Resource Center, which was located right across the street from our church. I had no idea what the needs were in our community, but quickly realized that there were dozens of at-risk single moms within walking distance of our doors. The BCWRC existed to serve single moms who were pregnant or had little ones and who needed help with things like diapers, wipes, baby formula, clothing, etc. I soon saw the many OTHER needs that were being met at this little center. Read more>>
Latoya Tenise
I started as a teen mom and a single mom. At 18, I graduated high school five months pregnant. I had my second child 6 years later. Since then my motivation has been to provide and raise them in a life they don’t have to recover from. We relocated to Georgia in June 2013. As I started building and rebuilding my life I went from being a Staffing Specialist (at a Staffing company I walked into, looking for employment) to being a Regional HR Manager within 6 years. Read more>>
Randi Hooker
After relocating to Forest Park, we expanded our outreach under Helper Consulting Services, LLC. We launched a Monthly Meal Assistance Program, offered non-emergency medical support, and continued providing temporary care through the Vacation House. As community need grew, so did our partnerships—with local businesses, animal lovers, and small organizations—committed to making a difference for residents and their pets. Read more>>
Simran Modhera
Driven by this passion, I moved to Savannah, GA, to study Film and Television at the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). My time at SCAD pushed my talents to new heights and gave me real-world experience. Two of my proudest accomplishments are my 16mm thesis films, especially Paint Me a Picture—a story I first wrote in high school and brought to life years later in college. It remains one of my most meaningful projects. Read more>>
Lashundra Michelle
The road has been challenging yet rewarding. I had to assist my parents while they fought their illnesses. My father always told me that I would own a successful business. He didn’t live to see me open my firm. I am continuously breaking down barriers as a female, African American entrepreneur. I’ve had to overcome systematic barriers to amass real estate. I am the proud owner of 5 properties. I will add another property to my portfolio this year! Read more>>
Isabella Vaca
Hello everyone! I’m Isabella, originally from Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia, a city rich in culture, traditions, and vibrant color that has deeply shaped how I see the world. My journey into interior design began in a very personal way. Growing up with my grandmother, who struggled with hoarding, I witnessed firsthand how our surroundings can impact our mental and emotional well-being. That experience left a lasting impression on me and made me realize that spaces aren’t just physical, but instead, they hold emotions, memories, and energy. Read more>>
MLB Make Loyalty Bigger
Nah, it definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. We been through all types of obstacles, personal losses, setbacks, people switching up, and just the ups and downs that come with life and chasing something real. Every stage came with a different kind of challenge, whether it was family stuff, business situations, or just learning who really with you and who ain’t. But through all of that, we never folded. We stayed grounded, stuck to the plan we laid out from the jump, and kept our eyes on the bigger picture. It’s all about staying focused and pushing through, no matter what. That’s what built our character. The struggle made us sharper, made the vision even clearer. Read more>>
Justin Goodwin
My story of music started when I was a child. I grew up listening to all different genres of music ranging from Michael Jackson, Journey, Notorious B.I.G., Kirk Franklin and much more. All of the music I grew up listening to inspired me to use my gift of singing, rapping, and songwriting. But most of all my inspiration came from being raised in the Church. I remember writing my first song at the age of 8 or 9. I was so hyped about it, and I was singing it to everyone! Read more>>
Bernard Lofton
Over the years I have did an extensive amount of volunteer work via my graphic/web design work or my actual boots on the ground advocacy. Over the years, my work has evolved into me designing and creating merchandise for various clients all around the country. My life would then take another turn when the housing market started to go belly up. I now teach business education in the public school system in Atlanta metro schools. I still serve a few clients on the side with my business. Read more>>
Emily White
Every step of the journey—from singing just for fun to pursuing it more seriously—has been a reflection of who I am and where I come from. My family’s love for music laid the foundation, but it’s my own drive and connection to it that continues to shape my path. Music is something I want to do not only to communicate, heal, and connect with the world, but also to pursue a passion that’s been with me for as long as I can remember Read more>>
Shareese Boseman
To be honest, I’ve always had a love for makeup. It started back in college—one of my roommates did my makeup for a party, and I remember thinking, “Okay, I need to learn how to do this myself.” From that moment on, I fell down the YouTube rabbit hole, studying the IT girls like Jackie Aina and Aaliyah Jay (she was really my girl, especially when it came to learning the glam side of things). I would sit for hours practicing, blending, messing up and trying again, just soaking it all in. Read more>>
TAira Duke
Our journey began in the heart of Atlanta, not with a grand business plan, but with a calling. As a nurse, it was my mother who saw firsthand how many patients missed critical appointments—not because they didn’t want care, but because they had no reliable way to get there. She often reflects back on the look of worry in their eyes when they weren’t sure how they’d make it to treatment, and the relief when we managed to arrange transportation. Those moments stayed with her. Read more>>
King June
I started music and film as a child. My mother bought me my first rap album (Kriss Kross) and I’ve been in love with music ever since. I wrote my first raps at 9. I use to write all of the lyrics down to my favorite rap songs and then take out all of the curse words and make the songs kid friendly. Read more>>
Jorge Santiago
I’m originally from El Paso, Texas where I fell in love with telling stories. I ended up leaving home for Atlanta, GA to earn my MFA in Sequential Art from the Savannah College of Art in Design. Since then, I’ve been working on comics and other graphic novels, both self published and with teams. I’m most well known for my work on Spencer & Locke with David Pepose, which was nominated for 2 Ringo Comic Book Awards, and my webcomic Curse of the Eel, which has over 1.3 million views on the webcomic service, Tapas. Read more>>
Victoria Cooley
I am an English teacher at Perry Career Academy in Joneboro, GA. I teach and mentor students who struggled in traditional school. This is often their last chance to make up their credits and graduate high school. In terms of my personal journey, I was born in New York City in 1984 to Susan and Rodney Edwards. They were matched in a mass wedding by Sun Myung Moon. He was the controversial Korean religious leader of the Unification Church. They were matched and married in 1981 with over 2,000 other couples in Madison Square Gardens. I have a sister named Sunny Levine. Read more>>
Tyshon Waters
I have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, beginning my career with AmeriCorps, where I worked with underprivileged youth. Since then, I have continued to grow in this field, driven by a deep commitment to helping individuals heal and achieve wholeness so they can fulfill their God-given purpose. I founded Greater Dimensions to pursue this mission—bringing support and services directly to those in need. Too many people leave this world without realizing their purpose due to unresolved emotional and psychological challenges. My goal is to change that by providing the tools and support necessary for true healing and personal growth. Read more>>
Lakeshia Seals
As the Executive Director of Divine Help Ministries, I lead a faith-based social service organization dedicated to being a present help in times of trouble. Our mission is to uplift and empower low-income families through support, guidance, resources, and encouragement. We believe that no one should walk through hardship alone—and we are committed to being part of the village that brings hope and healing. Read more>>
Kimberly Strickland
It has definitely not been a smooth road I must say. Being an entrepreneur is rewarding and challenging at the same time. I have encountered times where things were at a stand still and nothing was happening and I wondered at times if this is what I am supposed to be doing. I realized that everyday wouldn’t be a cake walk and that this is all apart of the journey. I had to push through and still do at times because I can’t give up. I have something that the world needs to see and I won’t stop until they do! Read more>>
Dhruti Contractor
He started therapy at the age of 10 months. Therapy was his shadow. He didn’t have time for extracurricular activities as he was going to medical treatments, occupational, speech, or social skills therapy. There were medications to manage, evaluations to do, and accommodations and services to fight for. Though his progress was slow, I was proud of every win. Though I worked full time as a surgeon, I submerged myself into learning about neurodivergence and building his skills for life. I worked hand in hand with his providers to maximize his potential. Read more>>
Danielle Nebeliuk
In high school, I discovered a love for writing—especially poetry—which eventually led me to pursue a degree in English Literature. After graduating, I joined OGM Integrated Communications, my father’s agency and one of the leading advertising firms in Jamaica. Working under his leadership was both a gift and a masterclass. He’s a giant in the advertising industry—always pushing me, believing in me, and seeing things I hadn’t yet learned to see in myself. I spent over five years there as a copywriter, learning the craft from the inside out. Read more>>
Andrea Vilorio
When I returned from serving in Peace Corps (https://losingmyselfinservice1.wordpress.com) as an English Teacher in rural Ethiopia, I knew a couple of things: 1) I wanted to obtain further education, 2) I wanted to build a business I could be proud of, 3) I wanted to work in government, and 4) I wanted to help people with health and education. Over the last several years, I’ve worked hard to make those dreams a reality. Read more>>
Géraldine Morin Johnson
Growing up, I moved about 12 times before I left France, but always within 20 miles of Nantes. It wasn’t a nomadic life, but each home was a fresh canvas. My parents redecorated everything, paint, floors, kitchens, window treatment, you name it, they did it. They made every space feel like ours. My sisters and I always had rooms tailored to us, our opinions mattered, and our spaces reflected that. We created a peaceful, nurturing environment for our family. Read more>>
Daniel Jefferson
I got to where I am by Gods Grace. It’s only been him, he has guided every step and every direction. I started by being a basketball player but as time went on, I had realized my calling is help be a visionary through filmmaking, writing, and leading others. Read more>>
Yana Pidorvan
I am an architect from Ukraine. After coming here,in Georgia more than 10 years ago I fall in love with local Southern style and started making art in chebby chic,Victorian, Southern style. I adore repurposing things and giving new life to old,forgotten or heirloom pieces. I am making jewelry, greeting cards,ornaments and other small home decor. Read more>>
