We asked some of the city’s rising stars to reflect on what made a difference in their journey. We asked them to tell us about what they think the most important factor has been behind their success.

Maarten Lemmens | Animator

I don’t believe success is measured by wealth or income. I think success is based off two separate worlds. One world starts when you enter your job and workplace, of how happy you are living in that world. I believe a job should feel like a hobby, have it feel like something you do because you love doing it, and not because you’re waiting for it to be over to get the paycheck and go home. Read more>>

Timothy Maikeo | Husband, Father, & Veteran Business Owner

Coming from a family owned restaurant back in Northridge CA, I always believe in quality over quantity. I used the restaurant background to help me create my own version of what I believe is considered the best Thai Tea. I started making small batches for family & friend gatherings and next thing you know everyone was requesting for my Thai Tea drink at all the parties. Read more>>

Miyo Yamauchi | Storyteller

Find your tribe! When I started my storytelling journey, I didn’t have any specific goals other than improving my English speaking skills. I didn’t know what I was doing, how well I was doing, or if I was making any progress, but I kept going because of my friends’ encouragement and enthusiasm. They have been supportive of my journey since day one. Thanks to them, I didn’t have to bang my head too much. Read more>>

Dr. Akshay Sanan | Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeron

The most important factor behind my personal and brand success is having an indomitable spirit. In high school, I practiced tae kwon do and achieved the rank of black belt. One of the tenets taught to me in tae kwon do was having an indomitable spirit. This ethos was ingrained in me at a young age and served as a guiding force in college, medical school, and my training. Now, in my practice, I bring this energy daily to work. Read more>>

Tyson Lozensky | Scoring Mixer / Engineer & Music Producer

I think the ability to adapt to change and be versatile as things are constantly changing and evolving in technology and the industry in general. When I started out, I wanted to do Sound Design and make sound effects for movies and games, but I kept myself open to anything that came up, and ended up recording and mixing Orchestral Film Music. Read more>>