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.

Christian Green

I grew up in Atlanta and my first jobs in high school were working in various restaurants and service industry jobs. Throughout high school and into college, I continued to grow my career in the restaurant industry while obtaining degrees in Finance and Economics. During that time, I also met my wife and we started growing our family. Read more>>

E-Jay Mills

E-Jay Mills takes all that was great about the old-school singer-songwriter/producer formula and repurposes it into something that is uniquely his own. In 2009, he was a winner at the world-famous Apollo Theater and went on to release two successful independent albums, ‘Who is E-Jay Mills’ (2015), ‘Unbroken’ (2019), zoom Zoom and Questions ( 2023) perform in venues across the U.S. Read more>>

Joshua Bartolotti

I didn’t always know I wanted to do this. I had originally majored in opera performance and had a minor in digital arts, but I could tell it wasn’t going to be the life I wanted. I, I’m sure like many that age, felt a bit lost after leaving college. Read more>>

Bianka George

I don’t really have a “defining” moment of when I started doing what it is I do. What I can share is, since the age of 15 I was sold on the idea that Marketing would allow me to experience and explore ALL opportunities and industries because it’s needed. Only recently did I connect the dots to my relationship with God. How? Read more>>

Sy Hudgins

I have been lucky. I am extremely smart, but I am not an ambitious or focused person. I had a single mother who poured her all into me as her only child, and that included keeping me around successful people who were generous in their support and guidance. Read more>>

Ahmed rabiea

My name is Ahmed Rabie. I’m 30 years old, married, and a father to two wonderful daughters, Yosr and Liliya. I was born in Egypt, in the Maadi district of Cairo. My passion for design actually started long before my 7-year professional career. It began with a deep appreciation for anything crafted with skill and precision. Read more>>

Momolu Sherif

I was born into a family of immigrants. My parents came to America as refugees so everything that I am or will become in the future, I owe to them. That is where I get my drive and work ethic, but also my passion and empathy from. All qualities that led me to Kozy with my cofounder Jordan. Read more>>

Precious Thornton

I’m Precious Thornton, a seasoned speaker with over fifteen years of experience inspiring and educating audiences worldwide. I’m known for delivering talks full of wisdom, inspiration, and insight. Beyond speaking, I’m a multi-faceted professional, an accomplished author, actress, licensed cosmetology instructor, and media correspondent, driven by purpose and fueled by passion in everything I do. Read more>>

Ms. Ojay Jones

My journey with books began all the way back in 1994. After the birth of my daughter, I knew I needed an additional source of income to support us. Using my income tax refund — which was all I had — I invested in a book software program that allowed me to create personalized inspirational and educational children’s books. Read more>>

OGx MindBenda

Started in Birmingham end up in Atlanta music production rap shows promoting doing cam work I was like at it doing it all… I joined up with hhf with Pimpin Ken Shots out to the fam then i drift off doing my own thing like pool party’s artists paid show concerts to shooting my first movie i call it CyberCityATL . Read more>>

Tyra Brady

My story began nearly ten years ago when I landed my first salon job and began an invaluable mentorship that set the foundation for my career. After a year in that position, I made the decision to work for myself — an incredible, hands-on learning experience that shaped my professional journey in profound ways. Read more>>

Brenda Usher

From Upstate New York to Atlanta: A Journey of Purpose, Perseverance, and Empowerment Some people follow a path. Others create one. For Brenda, the journey from upstate New York to Atlanta wasn’t just about changing zip codes — it was about transforming her life and uncovering her purpose. Read more>>

Gabriella Ronha

You need humility to keep learning, determination to be consistent and focus to keep going, because it won’t always be perfect or glamorous. Read more>>

Austin Whatley

I was a entertainer for 10 years, Ive done Drag all over the south east. As of last year I retired from the Drag scene and only coming out if it’s for a good cause. Ive since changed focus to my amazing carrer as a first responder. Since ive. retired from doing Drag i’ve been blessed to help build some amazing events in the south east. Ive been able to assist in building some amazing events. Ive enjoyed seeing a vision put to work and its very nice to stay out the spotlight and just collect the checks. Read more>>

Ramatou Fofana

My name is Ramatou Fofana, but most people know me as Chef Ram – The Lefty Chef. My journey began long before I ever stepped into a professional kitchen. Cooking was more than a skill I learned; it was a language of love, resilience, and identity. Growing up, I found myself drawn to the flavors, colors, and stories that food carried. Read more>>

Essence Wallace – Odomes

Powerhouse actress, producer, & kingdom influencer, Essence the Superstar, is redefining what it means to be a superstar—empowering creative women to overcome unfulfillment & align with God’s purpose. Through her work, she teaches kingdom principles & inspires others to shine brightly through love & faith. Read more>>

Wolfgang Damm

The failure to understand That I had value has been the cornerstone of my evolution. Music, at first, was a refuge. Later, it became a language, a way to make sense of emotions that refused to sit quietly, emotions that crowded him in the dark hours when the world felt impossibly heavy. Read more>>

Julian Green

I grew up in Marietta, Georgia, and was homeschooled my entire life — something that gave me the space to explore creativity and individuality early on. At sixteen, I found my passion for acting and modeling, and I’ve been immersed in the industry ever since. Read more>>

Abby Rose Crosby

I was actually a full time student at Georgia state doing business management. Right before Covid my Dad was diagnosed with ALS and needed 24/7 care. I needed to be able to make my own schedule and honestly, college just wasn’t a good fit for me. Read more>>

Sonya Lane-Butler

I am the Founder of CHANGE, Inc. and the Creator of the S. Lane Network for Entrepreneurs and Entertainers. I started Communities Helping A New Generation of Entrepreneurs, Inc. (CHANGE, Inc.) in 2005. My goal was to help new entrepreneurs find the tools and resources needed to start a business. Read more>>

Rodisha Rodney

My journey into esthetics started from a deep passion for self-care and helping others feel confident in their own skin. Growing up, my mom was a hairstylist, so being around the service industry wasn’t new to me. I always admired her work, not just because she made people look good, but because she truly made them feel good. Read more>>

Taiwo Joseph

My Story I started Erilearn while working as an employee in an organization that had very little interaction with technology. During that time, I noticed a huge gap between what is taught in universities and the actual skills needed in the workplace. Read more>>

Dee Luckey

I started my career with dogs in 2007 working at a doggie daycare facility in Atlanta. I became inspired to become a dog trainer and have been running my own business since 2011. We offer a valuable alternative to commonly used coercive methods by promising we will never use shock, pinch or choke collars. There is a better way! Read more>>

Jake Goodman

For Keeps Film Co. started with my own wedding back in 2022. I realized I wanted a wedding film that felt like an old home-movie, not a cinematic highlight video which was basically all I could find in my search. I wanted it to feel authentic and tell the whole story of my wedding day. Read more>>

Leslie Palomino

My journey began as a volunteer for nonprofits and political campaigns, knocking on doors and talking to neighbors about the issues that impacted their lives. From that first experience, I realized the power of showing up, listening, and connecting with people in my community. Read more>>

Regina Koranteng

Niko’s Wine Corner was an existing wine shop that we purchased in 2021, during the pandemic. I’m a nurse by profession, and this wine shop was a haven for me during the pandemic. I knew little about wine, but when we found out it was on sale, I thought to myself that if I can be a nurse, then I definitely can learn about wine. Read more>>

Mi’Chel Bombshell

I began my esthetics journey in 2017 after graduating from esthetician school. Nothing about this path came easy. After losing my father to senseless violence, experiencing homelessness, and going through a series of toxic relationships, I knew I wanted, and deserved, more from life. Since my father’s passing in 2012, I’ve chased my dreams with everything in me. Read more>>

Ryan Benefield

Golf has always been a part of my life. I grew up in a family involved in the golf industry, so it has been in my blood from the beginning. My professional and educational background is in fine art, and I’ve made a living painting commercial murals—specializing in large-scale logos and wayfinding—which has sharpened my attention to detail. Read more>>

Danyale Weems

In terms of where I am today, it has been a journey beginning from 2002 when I initially began my career in Social Services as Child Protection Worker. I began my career towards social work when I was hired as a Mental Health Clinician in a Juvenile Justice level 10 female program due to being a Certified Facilitator for Thinking for a Change. Read more>>

Brandon Schaeffer

I’ve been interested in vintage and antiques my whole life. I have been selling vintage items as a side hustle on eBay since 2013. After the pandemic, I quit my corporate job as a mortgage loan officer and decided to go full-time into vintage. Read more>>

Latia Bell

Sickle Cell Unsilenced is a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating the community and amplifying awareness around Sickle Cell Disease. When I founded the organization during my freshman year of college in 2018 at the University of Georgia, my mission was personal. As a teen living with Sickle Cell, I often felt isolated and different from my peers. Read more>>

Lorre Jones

My story starts at Spelman College. I was a psychology major with a concentration in mental health, and I absolutely loved learning and applying my knowledge to understand and help people. However, halfway through my second year, I realized that the careers weren’t for me, and I instead wanted to use my knowledge in the Entertainment industry. Read more>>

Kierre Edwards

I have been doing massage therapy since 2017 I went through a rough break up back in late 2021 left me an a space I don’t ever want to be in. Read more>>

Trent Smalley

At T&H, our story is more than just our opening in 2019—it’s a legacy built on innovation, dedication, and family values. Trent began working in his family’s business at just 15 years old, learning the ins and outs of rig building, pressure washing, and engine and pump mechanics. His passion for the cleaning industry and commitment to quality craftsmanship became the foundation for T&H. Read more>>

Arianne Morrison

Hi, I’m Ari — the owner and creative heart behind Fluffed by Ari, a mobile dog grooming business built on faith, passion, and purpose. I’ve been in the grooming industry for over six years now, and it’s truly become my calling. I started off working in a small mom-and-pop shop, where I learned the foundation of my craft. Read more>>

Marquetta Hemphill

I have always believed that every experience, no matter how small, teaches you something valuable. I started my career learning the importance of hard work, organization, and building strong connections with people. Over time I discovered that my true passion was helping others grow, creating meaningful strategies, and inspiring people to step into their purpose. The journey was not always easy. Read more>>

ixn

Ever since I was super young, I always had a deep interest in music. Going as far back as to elementary school, I would spend time listening to music way more than the people around me, and I felt it was more important to me than it had been to others. Read more>>

Krista Durant

My journey started long before I ever imagined becoming a founder or community advocate. It began through lived experience — navigating housing instability, witnessing inequities firsthand, and realizing that too many families, especially in underserved communities, were being left without the knowledge or resources to change their financial trajectory. Read more>>

Willie Brassell

I’ve always had a love for creating and decorating it’s something that’s been a part of me since I was a kid growing up in Mississippi. My mom and her seven sisters were always designing, crafting, and putting together beautiful things, so I was surrounded by creativity from the start. Read more>>

Jonni Vann

I was moving furniture around at a very young age, maybe 8. I spent a lot of time creating beauty inside my home as the years went by. I had friends ask me to help them decorate because they loved what I did in my home. Then I went to an ’empowering womens seminar’ where I heard Terah Katherine Collins speak on Geng Shui. Read more>>

Kimberly Walden

After graduating from Emory University in 2005, I got a job as a special education teacher. I taught special education self-contained in Newton County for 16 years. I absolutely loved my job as an educator, and it was definitely a calling from God. Many days were spent ensuring that my students were performing to the best of their ability. I believed in them. Read more>>

Gino Bino

I’m Gino Bino and I first started to love rap music in the early 2000’s. I’ve always liked rap music, but I think I really got into it more when I listened to Three 6 Mafia. They’re my favorite group, and I feel like you can still hear their influence in music today. Read more>>

Tera Carissa Hodges

My journey begins in media, sales, women’s empowerment, and ministry. It stems all the way back to me being class president in the 6th grade, senior class president in high school, a writer for my high school newspaper and student staff member for our yearbook. I have always had a thing for empowerment, leadership and media. Read more>>

EasyLife

Well, My name is EasyLife (one word). Im originally from Cleveland, Oh. I am an Artist, producer, and songwriter. The inception of EasyLife was around the winter of 05. I want to say it was a few days after Christmas, I went over to my cousin Ksure216 house to play the new wrestling game. Read more>>

Brenda Choates

At the age of 19, in January of 2006 I decided to enroll in Advanced Career Training for their dental assisting program. School was going great. In February of 2006 I found out that I was pregnant with my daughter Makayla. In spite of my pregnancy, I continued on with school. Read more>>

Cheryl Ruffer

My family and I moved here 22 years ago from Chicago. After my kids were in school, I had the opportunity to do lots of different things like volunteering, starting a non-profit and painting. During this time I worked with my church and got the opportunity to go to Kenya with SERV Ministries. Read more>>

Lauren Spaulding

Most kids get grounded for breaking rules. I got grounded for writing. My parents worried because I’d disappear into my projects for days, too obsessed and losing touch with reality. Stories weren’t just an escape for me. They were where I felt most alive. So many people don’t know what they want to do with their lives. Read more>>

Judson Mallory

Since I was ten years old, I wanted to be an attorney. I didn’t come from a family of attorneys so I had no clue about what type of attorney I wanted to be, but I knew I was destined to practice law. I had a passion for helping people and loved to debate. It seemed like the perfect career. Read more>>

Marlin Williams

A genuine ability to positively influence people and change the course of negative communication influences how Marlin Williams structures his daily life. “There is too much negativity in the world,” says Williams. Read more>>

Jennifer & Scott Glover

Scott Glover, a 4th generation dairy farmer, has always had a passion for cows. He grew up working alongside his grandfather, father and uncle on the family dairy farm. Read more>>

Timothy Sands

My professional journey started being built on a unique foundation of leadership, shaped by dual roles in ministry and the business world. My time in spiritual leadership gave me a deep, values-driven perspective on fostering growth, resolving conflict with empathy, and serving a community. I learned that leadership is about creating an environment where people feel welcomed and empowered. Read more>>

Julia McVicker

Supporting my local community is at the heart of what I do. Since beginning my career as an Occupational Therapist in 2005, I have been dedicated to helping individuals maintain their independence, mobility, and connection to their communities. Read more>>

Zoë Schroeder

I started volleyball when I was 10 years old and started club at 13. I began to edit when I was 12 and became obsessed with effects and altering visuals in a different way. I was so inspired by Marvel movies, specifically the movies including Wanda Vision and Dr. Read more>>

Akeame Spence

My journey began with a simple but powerful desire—to inspire people to become the best versions of themselves, both physically and mentally. Growing up, I learned early on the value of discipline, perseverance, and faith, which became the foundation for everything I’ve built. Before launching KiYah Athletics, I worked across several fields—healthcare, wellness, behavioral support, and emergency services. Read more>>

Issac Okpe

My story has always been rooted in faith, purpose, and the desire to build something that lasts longer than me. I’m a proud graduate of Texas Southern University, where I earned my MBA in Management. Read more>>

Nelse Dumas Jr

Nelse Dumas Jr. well known as Nelse D. he’s a producer, artist, director, and filmmaker. He’s the CEO of entertainment company Unionmoney ENT & nonprofit Priceless Dreamz. He creates his own original music, the most recent called “The Sweetest & Right.” Bentley Records, with whom he has partnered, is responsible for his distribution. It’s on all platforms going crazy. Read more>>

Whitney Panetta

I have been interested in art for as long as I can remember. I was raised by an art teacher mom and an engineer dad, art and design have always been a part of my life. I decided to pursue art in college and intended to focus on graphic design, but education is in my blood, and I ended up in the art education program. Read more>>

Anthony Samuels

God Carried Me’ Born in New York to West Indian immigrants, I was raised in New Jersey. My childhood was centered around sports and entertainment; a soccer ball at the feet, Source Magazine covers on my bedroom wall, and Hip-Hop music blasting through my speakers. Read more>>

Lindsay Baker

Like many little girls I dreamed of being a vet as a child. I moved away from it as I got older once I realized it was more than just playing with pets all day. In college I struggled to find a major that connected my love of science and animals until I reconnected with the idea of veterinary medicine. Read more>>

Teresa Edwards

I suppose I thought growing up as a little girl near Savannah, GA that there were roles for men and roles for women. No one ever said this out loud to me but it was clear as I observed the division of labor in the world. Women were teachers, nurses and secretaries. Men wore suits leading from offices with views of the city. Read more>>

Bri Butler

I’ve been singing for as long as I can remember. My very first solo was at seven years old during a Christmas program at church. I sang “Joy To The World”. From there, I was the girl singing at school programs, in the high school chorus and placing in state competitions, or performing and winning at the Boys & Girls Club talent shows. Read more>>

Jo Taylor

I began as a commission artist, painting custom surrealist portraits and selling psychedelic prints at vending festivals in and around Atlanta. After relocating to Woodstock, I decided to explore a new medium – ink to skin. Tattooing appeals to me in a similar way to portraiture: I prefer to create art in tandem with the muse whenever possible. Read more>>

Kadin Collins

KraftzByKadin started with a simple idea — turning creativity into something that could make people smile. I’ve always loved making things, from small crafts to custom pieces that show personality and care. What began as a fun hobby soon became something more when family and friends started asking for my creations. As I kept experimenting with different materials, my business began to grow. Read more>>

Kristen Allen

Ever since my Auntie Gretchen first introduced me to sewing, crochet, and jewelry making at just 8 years old, I’ve been hooked on creating. Visiting her house became my creative space, where I’d work at a new technique or craft a new piece of jewelry each time. In high school, I dreamed of turning my passion into a business. Read more>>

Milly Edwards

I was born and raised in Macon, Georgia, a city steeped in music history and really charming in its own way. Though I didn’t used to appreciate it, like I can now with some perspective. I’m the middle of three children, which I like to joke has made me pretty well-adjusted. Read more>>

Diamond Love

Diamond Love: Building Faith, Legacy, and a House Called Love “From the wrong side of the tracks to a foundation built on faith.” Growing up in the DMV area, Diamond Love learned early how easy it was to get caught up in the wrong things. “At that time and era, doing wrong seemed like it was right,” he recalls. Read more>>

Alijah Smith

My love for music has been there for as long as I can remember, with some of my earliest memories comprising of dancing to ‘Michael Jackson’ or ‘Crazy Frog’. The music making portion didn’t begin until I was 15 years old. I was inspired by a producer by the name of ‘Knxwledge’. Read more>>

Myles Evans

I’m Myles Evans an actor based in Atlanta, Ga growing up I was fascinated by film and television. So much so that I made it my whole life. Read more>>

Miesha Adams

My story begins in middle school. One day, my brother and I brought home permission slips for upcoming high-school tours. When our mom looked at them, she immediately noticed they were for two completely different sets of schools. We hadn’t realized it, and when she asked why, we didn’t have an answer. Read more>>

Ebony Gardner

I mostly grew up on the southside of Atlanta, in Riverdale, Georgia. I’ve always had a heart for people and a love for creating spaces where others feel cared for. That passion led me to work in hospitality, where I managed hotels for several years, and later in commercial real estate. Read more>>

Stacy Fitzgerald

I started Compliance On Demand because I noticed a pattern with so many business owners, they were amazing at what they do, but constantly overwhelmed by the business side of things. The bookkeeping, payroll, taxes, compliance, all the behind-the-scenes work that keeps a business running smoothly, was stressing people out and holding them back from focusing on growth. Read more>>

Ramon Noguera

I came to the United States eight years ago, leaving behind a difficult situation that impacted both my country and my personal life. I’m a civil engineer by profession, but like many immigrants, I had to start from scratch when I arrived here. Read more>>

Lucy Aldridge

For nearly twenty years, my journey as a hairstylist has woven together a story of growth, resilience, and community spirit right here in West Georgia. I began my career in Villa Rica, Georgia, working at a booth rental salon, eager to learn and master my craft. Read more>>

Dominique Chantel

Dominique Chantel is a Christian entrepreneur, speaker, and teacher dedicated to helping women thrive through every season of life. As the founder of She Thrives and Let Love Be Your Guide, LLC, Dominique has built a faith-centered community and brand that empowers women to grow spiritually, emotionally, and purposefully. Read more>>

Shirley Vaughn

Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve been fascinated by motorcycles. I still remember riding on the back of my uncle’s bike — holding onto his coat and trying to peek around to see where we were going, until I finally relaxed and just started to enjoy the ride. Read more>>

Martine Stefanovic

My name is Martine Stefanovic, and I was born and raised in New York City. I’m married and a mom of two amazing kids, and we now live in McDonough, Georgia. I have a bachelor’s degree in media management, a field I’ve worked in for most of my life. Read more>>

Ashthon Jones

I started out in Nashville, Tn where Im originally from, as a songwriter/singer for a local Publishing Company. After being there for a few years I was able to sharpen my craft as a new independent artist in the music industry, I went on to try out for American Idol and made it to the finals. Read more>>

Jacinth Brown

A Vision Realized In 1997, it was a vision of mine to open a real estate brokerage that would truly serve the community with honesty, professionalism, and care. That vision became a reality in January 2000, when Brown Associated Brokers was officially established. Read more>>

Joshua Pearlstein

I’m an Atlanta-raised artist and songwriter. Music has been my north star ever since I first saw Michael Jackson perform – it hit me like lightning. I’ve spent the last few years developing my sound, writing, producing, and performing, and now I’m studying at Berklee College of Music to sharpen the craft even further. Read more>>

Joshua Robinson

I have a theatre degree from Reinhardt University. After I graduated, I moved to Woodstock where I taught during the day and acted at night. I was also on an improv troupe that hosted a comedy fundraiser night at Reformation Brewery once a month called Brew Ha Ha. For one of these Brew Ha Has, they wanted to do trivia, so I volunteered to host! Read more>>

Melvontae Reese

So I am from Louisville, Kentucky. I moved to Atlanta to pursue my hairstylist career as a Loctician. I was formally a clothing designer for the past decade. Read more>>

Noël Heatherland

After being born in Warner Robins, GA, my family and I moved to the rural outskirts of the Albany, GA area when I was a toddler. Growing up as a queer and neurodivergent child in a cult environment was challenging. Read more>>

Robert Marchant

My story begins in Flint, Michigan, a city built on hard work, grit, and perseverance. Both of my parents worked and retired from General Motors. While I deeply respected their dedication and sacrifices, I knew early on that I wanted to follow a different path—one that allowed me to connect with people, understand their stories, and help them grow beyond life’s challenges. Read more>>

Gio Imani

Have you ever had a dream so vivid you can smell it? you can feel it? You can taste it? you can see it? you can everything but grab it? 2023 had me in that chokehold. I began esthetician school and went on a health leave from esthetician school in the span of a week. Read more>>

Tynesha Williams

My name is Tynesha Williams, and I am 29 years old. I’m a proud and loving mother to my 4-year-old son, Malachi Nasir Surrett. I graduated from Clayton State University with a Master’s degree in Business Management and a minor in Entrepreneurship. In 2015, I went through one of the most challenging times in my life. Read more>>

Courtnee Roberson

My journey began in the arts and education world. I started my career as a Teaching Artist with the Alliance Theatre and Fulton County Arts & Culture, where I discovered how powerful creative expression could be in helping students build confidence and communication skills. Read more>>

Angel Williams

My Why The inspiration behind this cookbook has been in my heart for years. It was always something I wanted to do something I even started working on a while ago. But life happened, and I ended up putting it on pause. For a long time, I didn’t revisit it until one day everything changed. Read more>>

STA KT

I started doing music as a senior in highschool, did my first couple songs didn’t really like em – honestly think it was a personal thing but i kept going. I’ve taken breaks in between the years but recently my goal has been being as consistent as possible. Whether it’s simply being active on social media or dropping music every week. Read more>>

Lainey Stancil

My journey into birth advocacy and support began in a deeply personal way. From a girl struggling with PCOS and infertility to a first-time mom navigating postpartum, breastfeeding challenges, and eventually, infertility again after my son was born. Becoming a mother changed everything for me. About nine months postpartum, I felt a fire inside me that I couldn’t ignore. Read more>>

Amy McGuire

Absolutely. Before Modern Bra Company, I served as the executive director of a nonprofit—a role I loved because it allowed me to build relationships and lift people up. I especially enjoyed helping small businesses grow through community partnerships that benefited everyone involved. When that chapter ended, I began praying for what was next—something that would still allow me to serve others in a meaningful way. Read more>>

Jack Bloom

I’d say things started when I first picked up a pencil and drew a stick-figure, but on a professional level it was 2010. Around that time I graduated from SCAD Atlanta with a B.F.A. in graphic design. This lead to working for Coca-Cola’s Global Retail Team, and from there a slew of startups. Read more>>

Alexis Mandakis

I didn’t wake up one day and decide to build a company — I became the company. I’m Alexis, better known as MsMakeItHappenLex, and I’m the Co-CEO of Limelight Management. My journey didn’t begin with money or connections — it began with pure passion, faith, and a heart to help others shine in their purpose. Read more>>

Saismaran Vummadi

My journey into advocacy started when I interned at Asian Americans Advancing Justice, a nonprofit that focuses on empowering communities and promoting equity. At the time, I didn’t realize how much that experience would shape my path. I spent my days phone banking, helping register new voters, and reaching out to families who often didn’t have a voice in local decisions. By the end of my internship, I had made over 500 calls and helped 100+ people register to vote. That experience opened my eyes to how change starts—one conversation, one act of outreach at a time. Read more>>

Sonja Roberts

I’m happy to provide great meals and make things easier for people that don’t have time to cook for themselves or their families I have helped provide meals for cancer patients, people that have had surgeries as well as people that are unable to afford meals that people donate. It’s rewarding and I feel good doing for others Read more>>

Claire O’ Connor

Life was full. I was a teacher, a mom, a national sports analyst, a familiar face on Irish film, television, and radio and someone who’d spent her life chasing excellence through sport, storytelling, and education. From winning All-Ireland medals to leading roles in musical theatre, I’d built a life that was vibrant, connected, and very visible. Read more>>

Trey Boden

My dad was my best friend and was also a small business owner. He’d work hard seven days a week, constantly distracted by the next fire at work. It was a family business that started off on Spring Street in the 1940s and eventually made it to North Fulton. My mom worked there, too. I worked there as one of my first jobs when I was 10 years old. I was ‘volun-told’ to help in the shipping department when Chrysler had a body computer recall and the shop had the opportunity to repair and return every one of them nationwide in less than 3 months. Read more>>

Jason Wright

In 2005 I began my own gospel choir by the name of Jason Wright & The Master’s Touch, which had recorded and released two Billboard Charting Albums (Victorious Believer & The Declaration Project) as well as several singles such as the Hit song “Sinner Man” with Lillian Lloyd and the Christmas Hit “Glory to God (A Churchy Christmas)”. Read more>>

Ta-Kara Rutledge

I am the visionary behind Sacred Rose Journeys, a transformational travel and coaching experience designed to guide individuals on a journey of self-love, empowerment, and healing. As a Self-Love Mentor & Aspiring Peer Support specializing in gratitude and accountability, I assist clients cultivate clarity, confidence, and personal growth. Read more>>

Demar Rogers

In 2018, I concluded my college basketball career and graduated with an MBA in Data Analytics & IT. After finishing school, I moved back to Washington, D.C. Uncertain about my next steps, I spent time talking with my peers about potential career paths. Through those conversations, I settled on pursuing software engineering. I committed to teaching myself the craft, and that decision became the catalyst for my career. Read more>>

Raymond Roberson

That’s why it’s called faith– you don’t know how it’s going to work out, you just trust God’s got a plan. For years, I stayed in places that were no longer serving my purpose because they were familiar, but eventually, that voice inside kept calling me to move on. So I acted out on faith, it’s been rewarding. There’s been a lot of growing pains, but I wouldn’t change a thing about my journey. Read more>>

Tiffany Monroe

The goal of Healing Hands Reiki & Spiritual Development Inc. is to foster a caring and supportive wellness community that educates and encourages an optimal life, in which individuals consciously utilize and become intune with their inborn abilities to heal, live in balance, and connect with Indigenous Spiritual practices and the Ancestors. Read more>>

Lionel Hughes

The only advice I would give a younger chef is to stay focused and keep pushing. Finding a good mentor was major for me giving me the guidance over the years to help mold me into the chef i became. Daryl Shular, CMC /Matt Rainy / Alan Neace/ Read more>>

Niko Patel

I have been in Alc industry for over 25 years. Started (1998) in small liquor store where Boosted revenues from an initial $600,000 in sales per year up to several million dollars annually Scaled operations, resizing the establishment from 3,000 sq. ft. to 15,000 sq. ft. Read more>>

Marc Apple

I’m Marc Apple, founder of Forward Push Law Firm Marketing. After working in corporate media and advertising, I realized most marketing agencies didn’t understand lawyers. The big firms had million-dollar budgets, but solo and small law firms were left trying to do everything themselves, running cases, managing clients, and figuring out marketing on top of it. That’s why I started Forward Push. Read more>>