There are so many factors that affect how our lives turn out, but one of the most interesting is how our backgrounds give us unique strengths and perspectives that affect who we are as adults. We asked rising stars from the community to tell us about their background and upbringing and how they feel it’s impacted who they are today.

Gina Cholick | Photographer & Artist

I grew up in the countryside of South Dakota, outside of the small town of Brookings. My childhood and upbringing had a profound effect on who I’ve become. I often played in the fields surrounding our home, and I distinctly remember the feeling of joy connecting to nature and how it enabled me to live in my imagination. When I discovered photography, I noticed the light and the way the wind moved the grasses, and my connection to nature became even deeper. I felt more alive with a camera in my hands. That little girl is reflected today, in my work. Often, I photograph a figure in the landscape as if on a quest for a sense of self, just as I was so many years ago. Read more>>

Mona Bavar | Founder of DLISH Curated In Milan

Food has always been and will always be an important part of my life. I am honored to be a complex yet interesting mix of the magnificent Persian heritage that gives me roots in tradition and beauty, and the continuously innovative and dynamic Western cultures that give me the freedom to take shape and sprout creativity. Read more>>

Kazu Kusano | Comedian, Actor & Performance Artist

I was born and raised in Japan. Do you know Japan? It’s a country. You go to North Korea and make a right, quickly. I immigrated to America in my 30s all alone by myself to do comedy. Now I’m doing comedy in LA. Why did I want to do comedy in a different language in a foreign country? Many have asked. Perhaps, it was because of my dysfunctional family and the societal sexism in Japan and all over the world. Read more>>

Coach Sheika-Ann Ambatali | All In Basketball Trainer/Coach & League Commissioner

I was born in Saudi Arabia but my family is from the Philippines. Our family moved to Southern California when I was about 4 years old and I had no idea how to speak, write or understand English. It was tough communicating with others and making friends but I was determined to learn English. In retrospect, that was an obstacle I am grateful for because it showed me that I can accomplish anything. Read more>>

Sara Saxonberg | Founder of Pachamama Inspired

Growing up in the rocky mountains of Colorado, my childhood was spent climbing rocks & trees, digging in the Earth for earthworms, creating miniature homes for my imaginary friends out of grasses, flowers, and whatever natural elements I could find in the forest that was my backyard. Days were filled with imagination and freedom. Seasons were defined by changing leaves, blankets of snow, brave flowers emerging from the snow in Spring – irises and daffodils – welcoming warmer weather and longer days ahead, and the promise of summer afternoon rain showers. Read more>>

Rob Vinson | Photographer

I am born and raised in New Orleans. My father did photography as a hobby. I watched him growing up and seeing his passion for photography. I didn’t know that one day I would follow in his foot steps. Read more>>