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.

Yolanda Sadighpour

I am from Iran Read More>>

Melissa Michelle Jones

I’m originally from Boston. My journey didn’t begin on stage — it began with poetry. At twelve, I started writing to process what I couldn’t always say out loud. It gave me a place to be vulnerable before I even knew how powerful that was. Writing became my way of navigating the world, and over time, that vulnerability gave me a voice not just on the page, but in everything I do. Read More>>

Allison Caviness

I was born and raised in Queens, NY — arguably the most ethnically diverse county in the United States – and possibly the world. Growing up, I had many first generation American friends with roots from every corner of the globe. My introduction to different cultures came early and innocently. I took everyone I met at face value. It was such a unique privilege, growing up immersed in true diversity. Read More>>

Katie Mehaffey

I’m originally from Marin County, just north of San Francisco. From a young age, I was inspired by my Italian grandmother, who owned a yoga studio for many decades and made health, movement, and mindfulness a central part of her life. She lived well into her mid 90’s and her example showed me how powerful and fulfilling a wellness-focused lifestyle could be, and that early influence really shaped who I am today. Read More>>

Albert Tran

I was born and raised in the San Gabriel Valley. Growing up, I was around a lot of Asian people, whether it’d be going to school, the grocery store, local restaurants, etc. From there, I feel like it sheltered my mindset in a lot of ways because where I live is very peaceful and quiet, yet conservative and judgmental at the same time. I never really felt I could confidently express myself how I wanted to because I was so scared of what other people might react/think about me, since everyone dressed the same and it was a predominantly heterosexual environment. Read More>>