Where you grew up and your background can often have surprising effects on our lives and careers. We’ve asked folks from the community to tell us about how their background has affected them.

Lisa Lu | Professional Best Friend

wow this question, it’s bittersweet. I grew up on the rough side of North Hollywood, across the street from the city dump actually. Nothing was ever handed to me, not money, not opportunities, not love. My parents didn’t promote unity in the home, it was each person for themselves so growing up was lonely for me. Read more>>

Camila Pernisco | Writer & Artist

I was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. My parents provided me with a childhood filled with open dialogue, creative expression, and exploration. I find that nowadays a lot of my artistic and academic ventures reflect that state of being – one in which I can really dive deep to understand my self and the environments around me. Read more>>

Ralph Ziman aka Afrika47 | Artist

I was born and came of age in apartheid South Africa. Growing up in that environment a person either buries their head in the sand and denies it exists or sees and embraces the problems and understands the terrible impact they have on the people around you. When I was growing up, South Africa was brutal and violent. There was strife and uprisings in the townships. Read more>>

Hakoda David | Couture Fashion & Jewelry Designer

I’m am born in Los Angeles raised in Watts, California. My up bringing was very dynamic. My mom was a hard working mom, she was a licensed Bartender & put her self through school to become a licensed chef while raising my older brother & I, & after some time she raised my 2 younger stepbrothers with my stepdad. Read more>>

Nathan McCullough | Bar Director

I was born and raised in Central Valley California. A very small town called Ripon (at the time around 5,000 people). Growing up, there wasn’t a lot to do. My family struggled financially, so most of the time we had to entertain ourselves and create our own fun and games. Due to my families financial situation, I decided to get a job when I was 11, and was working 3 jobs by the time I was 13 (labor laws were a little different back then). Read more>>

Ann Miller | Educator, Business Owner, Singer & Songwriter

I’m a native of Houston, Texas. My upbringing was absolutely awesome! Parents, teachers, neighbors, and friends were always there for me. They gave genuine support and their insight was given with warmth, compassion and kindness. Read more>>

Catie Loth | Creative Producer

Hi, let me introduce myself! My name is Catie, but my family and friends back home know me as Catharia. I am originally from Germany, and although I have always been fascinated by America, my upbringing and the German culture have influenced me a lot. Read more>>