Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?

Culture, economic circumstances, family traditions, local customs and more can often influence us more than we realize.  With the benefit of hindsight, we asked some wise and experienced members of our community whether they think they are doing what they were meant to do or told to do.

Essence Walcott

I am doing what I was born to do. I have always been drawn to creating, connecting with people, and helping them feel confident and empowered. While others may have had opinions about what path I should take, I followed my own vision and built something that reflects my passion and purpose. Read more >>>

Darius Voncel

Honestly, for a long time I was doing what I was told to do. I let outside voices shape my path, family expectations, societal definitions of success, and even industry trends. I chased what I thought I was supposed to be doing instead of paying attention to what actually lit me up. Read more >>>

Sarah Rosenberg

I genuinely believe I’m fulfilling my purpose by helping people feel their best. I’ve always had a knack for connecting with others, and my passion for the beauty industry drives me. It’s a fascinating and complex field, and I love being a part of it! Read more >>>

Cheryl Tibbs

I’m doing what I was born to do. “Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you”, says the Lord! That verse has carried me. My path hasn’t always been easy, but it’s been purposeful. I’m not just following instructions or doing what people expect; I’m living out the assignment that was placed on my life long before I even understood it. Read more >>>

Vanessa Carrillo

I believe I’m doing what I was born to do. From a very young age I was in love with anything Beauty related. Hair, nails, skin care, makeup- you name it. I did have people in my life try to steer me away from that and go a different direction, however my heart was always set on the Beauty industry. Read more >>>

Martinique Ilona

I feel like I’m standing at the crossroads of both. For much of my life, I followed what I was told to do. The responsible choices, the respectable roles, the path that looked safe on the outside. And while I carried those roles out well, they never fully answered the question of what I was born to do. Read more >>>