ATL’s Most Inspiring Stories

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

Azaria Jackson

In 2022, I started practicing photography with family and friends. It was just for fun at first, but the more I practiced, the more I realized how much joy it brought me. Then, in 2024, after I had my son, everything changed. I bought my first professional camera and started taking pictures of him every month as he grew, all the way through his first year. Read more>>

Susan Johnson

My career then brought me to Shepherd Center a nationally recognized leader in spinal cord injury rehabilitation to develop a Brain Injury Program where I spent 22 years of service. By the time I retired, the Brain Injury Program had grown into a 60-bed inpatient rehabilitation unit, with innovative initiatives like a Disorders of Consciousness Program, community day and residential services, and an outpatient concussion program. A highlight program came when Bernie Marcus from the Marcus Foundation gave money to Shepherd Center to develop the SHARE Military Initiative, now a nationally recognized program serving veterans with TBI and PTSD a legacy that continues as AVALON. Read more>>

Saundra Carter

As a youth, Saundra Carter, The Math Lady ®, recalled many times stating emphatically “I HATE MATH”. That sentiment changed with her 11th grade Math teacher’s simplistic and artistic approach to math that made it fun and easier to decipher. Inspired by her math teacher’s impact on her attitude toward math, she started tutoring as a ministry in churches and schools in Louisiana, Texas, and Georgia. Read more>>

Madison Ingui

I moved back to my hometown, Monroe, and realized there was a need for a smaller scale, women’s only gym. In 2022, just 1 month post-partum after having my second child, MadFit Training was born! I started as just a personal training studio in a 500 sq ft room and have now grown into two spaces, one for personal training and one for group fitness classes, with over 100 members. I am so proud of the community I have created as a women’s only studio where you don’t feel judged or uncomfortable when you walk through our doors. Read more>>

Sarah Edmondson

That said, I’m deeply grateful for my support system, access to legitimate therapy, and the tools I’ve learned along the way to stay happy and healthy in recovery. One unexpected silver lining of Covid was that, when I couldn’t audition or act, my husband and I started a podcast. What began as a project to fill the time has become one of the most meaningful surprises of this journey—allowing us to connect with and support other survivors. Producing it hasn’t always been easy; it comes with its own challenges and steep learning curve. But it has also been one of the most rewarding parts of my healing. Read more>>

Blak 9earL

There are always ups and downs. Most often the struggle is your support system. It’s a lot when your family or hometown don’t acknowledge you in your time of need. It can be discouraging. I for one take it as motivation and leave it on stage. They see U keep singing Pearl Read more>>

Mark Pozin

She said YES, let’s start a crystal business. I loved the idea, these beautiful gifts from the earth resonated with me. We spoke to a few of her students and they all supported the idea, knowing that the crystals that Alka would select would be different and more special than what is available on the market at the time. One of her friends suggested how she had such an amazing knack for matching people with the Right crystal at the Right time and that is where The Crystal Matchmakers was born. Read more>>

Zoie Southern Garrett

My greatest memories are going through the 10 suitcases of prints with my nanny every weekend. We would flip through, and she would keep each person’s memory alive with a story about them and who they were to us. That was so inspiring, even as a child, to have all these stories and memories of people I didn’t even know, or never got the chance to meet. I didn’t know it yet in any certain terms, but somewhere inside of me, something clung to the fact that I wanted to be able to give that gift to future generations as well. The gift of physical memories. Read more>>

Lynachica Pace

Today, we’re both 55 years old; we met 9 years ago in 2016 and started the business one year later in 2017. What started as a leap of faith to help people travel, change pace and do something different, which has turned into a reality of curating international travel that enables travelers to fully immerse themselves in-destination while simultaneously revitalizing their sense of well-being. Read more>>

Jaay Darnell

Just as I started to do numbers on Vine, it shut down then I found my way back to instagram. I started posting dancing videos on there and YouTube for the next couple of years, and was heavily deep inside the dance community. I broke my knee in 2023 and after that I switch strictly back to making skits and making Vlogs on YouTube. I guess it was a sign because shortly after I was getting millions of views and getting invited to YouTube Creator events. Now here it is 2025 and along with all that, I’m also streaming on Twitch. I guess we’ll see where I go from here. Read more>>

Hedley Wilson

I focused on building my craft, learning not only the technical side of photography but also the business side—client relationships, contracts, pricing, and marketing. What started with individual portraits and headshots quickly grew into real estate photography, weddings, events, and brand work. Over time, I saw how much clients valued not just the images, but also my quick turnaround, attention to detail, and ability to make sessions comfortable and enjoyable. Read more>>

Taki Skouras

Not entirely. One of the biggest challenges we faced was the change in consumer behavior and the decline of mall-based shopping. Rents were high, and many malls were unwilling to adapt to new trends, which made it difficult for us to continue operating profitably. Then, of course, the pandemic hit in 2020, and that was another major hurdle. We had to close many of our stores, and some of them never reopened. The shift to e-commerce and the rise of micro-retailers forced us to reassess our business model and adapt to the new reality, which was like turning a large ship in a small pond. Read more>>

Taria Ray

I started my loc journey by accident—my children’s father wanted dreads, and after his first appointment, he decided I’d be the only one to do them. I learned everything I could from YouTube, fell in love with the process, and turned it into a service. Charging just $50, I made over $1,000 in my first week, which pushed me to pursue it seriously. I enrolled at Paul Mitchell The School Atlanta, paused when life called me to focus on family, and now I’m back—fully dedicated to chasing my dream, building my brand and future in hair! Read more>>

Oxana Kearney

I’m originally from Moldova and landed in United States at just 21 years old with $300 in my pocket and an unshakable dream: to one day on my own business. I did not know what kind of business that would be, but I knew one thing with absolute clarity, I was not meant to work for someone else. I finished 3 years of university in economical international relationships , that I was forced in by my parents. Very traditional ways back home. But I very much knew that having an office job was never something I could see myself do for the rest of my life. Read more>>

Jodi Wick

Due to past unstable living situations, I had times where had to put my passion on the back burner to get myself back in a better position to my crafts with no restraints. Good thing is I am not one to fold under pressure. I powered through all my obstacles and I have only gotten stronger from my experiences. Being in Atlanta with no real family has shaped into man I could have only dreamed about. I learned I am resilient, genuine, ambitious, and tough as hell. I can’t stop and I won’t stop. Read more>>

Sha‘Lena McCoy

Honestly, my story has been all about turning struggle into fuel. I didn’t come into this with everything handed to me — I had to figure things out, balance school, work, and life while chasing a passion that doesn’t always come with a clear roadmap. Music became my outlet early on. It was the one place I could take whatever I was going through — the pressure, the setbacks, even the wins — and flip it into something creative. Read more>>

Dr. Darlaina Rose

My path into healing and empowerment wasnt something i planned-it was something i lived. For decades i have been walking alongside women, helping them to release emotional pain, reclaim their power and rise into the fullness of who they are. That passion led me to The Darlaina Rose Foundation Inc. which supports women in the US and Nigeria with education, entrepreneurship and and empowerment. It also inspired birth of the Healing House of Roses, a vision for a holistic retreat space where women can find rest, wholeness and restoration. Read more>>

Emilienne Yepga

It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Like most entrepreneurs, I’ve faced seasons of struggle—financial sacrifices, disappointments, and even betrayal. There were times when I invested money into people or programs that didn’t deliver, and times when I had to walk away from clients or relationships that didn’t respect my worth. Read more>>

Dre Parker

I was raised by a single mom in the projects of Middletown Connecticut. I started working at the age of thirteen at a local restaurant to help bring in money to help around the house. In 1995, at the age of 22 years old, I became a first generation entrepreneur and opened up a brick and mortar clothing store in the downtown area of Middletown, Connecticut. I would make three to five thousand dollars a week and even sometimes hit those numbers in one day.  Read more>>

Crystal Ingram

Owning a small business is a struggle! I say that with sarcasm, but truth be told it’s a rollercoaster. My biggest struggle is internal. I battle imposter syndrome-which means I compare my work to that of other photographers. Most of the time those thoughts are negative, but over time I’ve learned how to use comparison for growth and let go of negativity. It’s a work in progress. Staying relevant on social media or even staying consistent is also a struggle. While I realize the importance, posting is always furthest from my mind. I hope to one day find a way to stay on top of this! Read more>>

Gabriela Tanchez

I’m a second-generation hairstylist with over 20 years of experience in the beauty industry. My passion for hair started at just eight years old, growing up in my mother’s salon, where I spent more than a decade learning the art and heart of the business. I officially graduated as a licensed hairstylist in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 2023, but my journey began long before that. Read more>>

Kamilah Gothard, CPA

I’ve always been the kind of person who loves solving puzzles. My mom still tells the story of how, at just two years old, I would flip puzzles upside down and work them from the wrong side—just to make it more challenging. That same curiosity and problem-solving followed me into school, where math quickly became my strength. Read more>>

Daphne Miller

I was given the push to tap into my talent. Months later I coordinated, designed and decorated my tenth-year anniversary renewal. Everyone fell in love with my unique style and gifted eye. Our Anniversary renewal was more than just an event it was an experience. After the renewal I received an influx of inquiries about coordinating, designing, and decorating events. That is how Blessed Events LLC came into existence. Read more>>

Weilin Liu

After graduation, I gradually developed my own design logic. I start from the concept phase, using world-building to create the foundational visual environment, then move into design by crafting a specific guest experience through story development, and finally bring it to life with theories of narrative environments. Read more>>

Riom Lawrence

I started RGLBakehouse in April 2025. I sell baked goods such as cookies and breads. I offer custom cookie boxes as well, so my customers can mix and match their favorite flavors. What sets me apart from others is that I use wholesome ingredients and I do not use refined sugar or artificial flavorings/ colorings. I am proud that I built my brand myself. I want readers to know that I offer quality treats for a reasonable price. I also hope readers will support me as I continue to run my business and market myself. Read more>>

Stephanie Tucker

My business allows me to express my creative outlet by hosting events and providing ballon services. I’ve always had interest in hosting and would decorate for me and my friend’s personal events. I knew this would be the perfect avenue for me to continue working in corporate while running a business. It also allows me to work along side my finance who is offering the catering options and incorporate my child when she gets older. The goal is to build generational wealth by involving my family and saving for our future. Read more>>

Riley Krantz

As far as what I believe sets me apart is that in this industry where it’s hard to ever tell the authenticity of an artist, I only speak on my own experiences. Every word I put in my songs is true. I know I have something good when I play a song of mine back and it gives me chills. My music is raw, vulnerable, and introspective. I have put a lot of time into mastering my craft, and I believe it shows. My cadence, delivery, and lyricism is elite and I mean that in the humblest way possible. Read more>>

Lindsay Navarro

I had some odd jobs and still did some short term mission work. One afternoon, I got a text from a friend about going on a service trip to Romania. I of course agreed and it happened to be with Chosen Vessels. I honestly didn’t think I would ever be back. Fast forward a couple of months, I went to live in Mexico for 2 months and while there, Chosen Vessels served me. Once I returned to the States, I was offered an Internship position with Chosen Vessels, which later turned into a full-time job. I now have traveled to many different countries and work full-time as Chosen Vessels’ Missions Coordinator. Read more>>

Isabella Taylor

Boundless Prosperity LLC was born out of that vision. As a Certified Personal Trainer, Nutritionist, and Health & Wellness Advisor, I wanted to create more than just a fitness brand. I wanted to build a safe space where people could transform adversity into strength. Over time, I also stepped into motivational speaking, sharing my story of resilience and self-love with audiences ranging from small groups to large events. Read more>>

Tremayne Johnson, II

I was born in Darlington, South Carolina and moved to Jacksonville, Florida in 2008 at seven years old with my family. My upbringing was humble and has prepared me to excel in every area in my life. At a young age I knew I loved music but didn’t imagine myself as a musician until late 2023. I started rapping in the sixth grade but it was a mixture of my verses and Wale’s. No sixth grader knew any of his verses outside of the mainstream stuff at my school. I went to Darnell-Cookman in Jacksonville for two years. It’s a medical magnet school.  Read more>>

Chastity Hinson

From there, I attended Oakland School for the Arts from seventh through twelfth grade, spent a little time at Berklee, and by nineteen I had moved to Europe to chase my passion. That journey eventually led me to Atlanta right at the start of COVID. After just one visit, I knew it was where I needed to be. Whenever people asked about my plan, my only answer was “music and God”—and that’s exactly what I found. Read more>>

Crystal Willis

That breakthrough led me to launch The Omni Firm, where I’ve had the privilege of leading PR and marketing campaigns for award-winning artists, nonprofits, and brands, securing national media placements and building high-level partnerships. Along the way, I also created Her Limitless Legacy to help women break cycles, own their brilliance, and step into visibility. Every pivot I’ve made, from corporate roles to entrepreneurship, has deepened my commitment to helping others own their story, amplify their impact, and build a legacy that outlives them. Read more>>

Michael Cummings

Musicmaker Productions is a young artist development company that focuses on up and coming young talent. We give Singers, songwriters, and musicians with a passion for music, a place to take their talents to the next level. From basic music lessons to songwriting to full Artist Production, We have a solution for you. Read more>>

CiCi Finger

Spiritually, I run a brand called Spiritual Guidance Goddess, offering readings, coaching, and motivational content to help others heal and align with their higher selves. My journey through homelessness, motherhood, and personal setbacks has shaped my mission: to remind people that no matter what you’ve been through, you can “glow through it.” That message inspired my writing, including my upcoming book Mirror Message: Reflections, Truth, and Healing for the Real Ones. Read more>>

Zac Day

I got my first tattoo shortly after graduating from high school. I slowly started just hanging out at the tattoo shop I went to. Started answering the phone and doing paperwork. That turned into me learning to pierce so I could make some money. Then one of the guys offered to apprentice me in tattooing. After tattooing in a few different shops and 14 years later, I opened my own shop. This is Main Event Tattoo. We opened the doors June 15, 2021. Read more>>

Diego Salcedo

The road has been anything but smooth. When I first arrived in the U.S., I leaned on my background in architecture and began working in that field. But deep down, I knew I wasn’t where I was meant to be. I felt something was missing: a way to connect more directly with people and tell their stories. That realization was both painful and liberating, because it meant I had to let go of stability to search for purpose. Read more>>

Armaan

My parents founded US Art Frames in 1997 in Mableton, Georgia. At our peak, we were one of the largest suppliers of wholesale art and picture frames in the Southeast United States. With the rise of e-commerce platforms like Amazon and eBay, we transitioned fully into online retail, reaching customers nationwide. Read more>>

Donna Grace McAlear

In 2008, after relocating from Baton Rouge to Atlanta, I faced a turning point when no art museum roles were available. What felt like a setback soon became an opportunity. For years, friends and family had sought my advice on home décor, recognizing my eye for color and design. Further, I had deep experience in museum exhibition design and space planning, and had also project managed a few museum renovation and building projects over the years. Trusting my instinct—and with little more than faith—I changed course and launched New Mood Design in 2009, marking the beginning of my career in interior design. Read more>>

Tabitha Nelson

I want there to be some emotion and a story in the photos. Lifestyle photography to me, means capturing your family in a way that isn’t forced or stiff, and it feels natural. I do sometimes guide a family activity during family sessions and I find this really helps families to relax, and creates natural candid moments. There are so many moments during the lifestyle family session that can’t be recreated and I love that! Read more>>

Wendy Snell

As a dance major, I danced through most of college until I decided that I wanted a more balanced life, one that would integrate my other lifelong love: working with young children. Not long after graduating from the University of Iowa, I received a Master’s in Early Childhood Education from Bank Street College in New York, which I put to use teaching kindergarten for six years before starting a family. Since 2012, it has been my great joy to teach and direct Music Together of Decatur, using the best early childhood music and movement program in the world!​​ Read more>>

Justin Adams

Sunday services are held at 9 AM and 11 AM, with a midweek gathering every Wednesday at 7 PM. These gatherings typically run about 90 minutes and include contemporary music led by a worship team, meaningful messages grounded in Scripture, and opportunities for community fellowship. Kid-friendly environments and youth programs are structured to engage families of all ages. Read more>>

Amy Rodriguez

I believe in hard work and discipline. I believe in pursuing what sets your soul on fire. We’re all wired differently, and that’s the beauty of it — the space that’s meant for you is yours alone. But don’t wait for it to arrive. Keep pursuing. Keep showing up. Never silence the hunger for the life you’re called to live. Read more>>

Ariel “birdfoot” Brown

Finding work that aligns with my vision was a struggle in the beginning. But more than that, understanding what my vision was so that I could even know what I was attracted to. Moving from taking any gig to taking gigs that align with me has been a great transition. I’ve been able to work on Black centered stories with largely Black crews, dispelling a lot of the isolation one feels when entering the film industry. Finding long term work in a gig economy among strikes and a recession has been a more recent struggle, but has also allowed me to focus more on my own projects, working with other artists, and birthing more necessary art into the world. Read more>>

Tanvi Gadiraju

I would always record and edit but never post it anywhere! During high school, I was highly engaged on twitter creating 1D edits and fanfics which tapped into my creative side. I took content creation seriously end of college because at that point in my life, I stopped caring what others thought and I wanted to finally chase after my dreams. Now, here I am, absolutely living the dream! I am able to work with dream brands and get amazing opportunities constantly and I know the little girl in me is so proud! Read more>>