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.

Alli Wulfert

More than anything else, my faith is the most important aspect of my life and career. Working in entertainment is very vulnerable, and it has a lot of ups and downs, so it’s vital to have your foundation built on something that will never change or fail. I know that at the end of the day, whether everything goes perfectly, or nothing goes the way that I would’ve liked, I still have my relationship with Jesus, and he will never leave me or let me down. Everything else in my life is built on that, and I’m incredibly thankful to know that I can navigate the rest of my career with that foundation! More than that, I know that his love and goodness isn’t based on how I perform, and I get to live in that peace. Read more>>

Sofiia Robinson

Most important thing that helped me to get where I am today is believing in my idea and to be all in with it. Read more>>

Gary Trudell | Owner & Mattress Manufacturer

We focus entirely on service and integrity. Our main goal and mission is to help people sleep better and ensure they are comfortable. Because of this care we provide each client, most of our business is referral and repeat. Read more>>

Lina Outler | CEO of Wealth Prosper Growth Productions Writer, director, producer and actress

I always had a love and flair for entertainment. I always loved to watch movies and TV and admired all the beautiful people I saw. From my earliest memories, I was drawn into the entertainment industry. My little sister and I would pretend we were famous and act like celebrities. I often thought I could make it as a singer or a dancer, so my mission was to show the world and those around me that I could be a superstar. I would gather my friends and sister to enter into talent shows. I would produce the show; create songs, dance routines, hairstyles, and our wardrobes. I had no clue at the time that I had a knack for performing. I only knew that it made me feel good to perform in front of an audience. Read more>>

Mili June | actor

For me, acting is a way to show the truth about the world and remind people of humanity.
Through storytelling, I aim to spark empathy, raise awareness for important issues. Topics like women’s and children’s rights, as well as understanding struggles like eating disorders, are close to my heart. These are the kinds of stories I want to bring to life, to inspire change and understanding. Read more>>

Gene Jimenez | Artist

I would have to say that knowing your own personal definition of success is crucial. Taking me at face value, I’m an artist; I make comic books, and I produce sound baths. By the majority of our Western civilization’s standards, any one of those professions is a rough road and not considered particularly ‘success-driven.’ All three together can be extremely unsuccessful financially. But if you were to ask me whether I consider myself successful, I would say yes. I make art, and it has sold. Not all of it sells, but some of it does when people connect with it. I get to tell stories in a comic book format about finding one’s own purpose and using that purpose for good and in alignment with what you believe in. Read more>>

Yukiko Cho | Filmmaker

The most important factor behind my success is authenticity. I believe in telling honest, human stories that resonate with audiences on an emotional level. My unique background, having grown up with both Chinese and Japanese cultural influences, gives me a distinct perspective that I bring to my work as a filmmaker. Read more>>

Zay Dante | Content Creator

Community, no question. Nothing gets done without having people in your corner. Having that mutual love and respect for those you’re working with makes the product so much better and everyone so much happier. Not to mention bringing in other people’s talents and strengths just makes sense. I’m so proud of how making videos on YouTube has progressed, and it only happened because my friend Cassius Pettit was like “did you still want to do that at some point? I can help with it” randomly one day after I had expressed interest in it a while back but didn’t know how to start.  Read more>>

Hui Jing | Senior User Experience Designer & Visual Storyteller

The most important factor behind my success is my ability to embrace adaptability while staying grounded in empathy. Design is rarely a linear journey; it’s a constant evolution of learning, unlearning, and iterating based on user feedback and real-world constraints. Adaptability has allowed me to pivot from visual design to UX design seamlessly, embracing new tools, methodologies, and team dynamics along the way. For instance, transitioning from crafting brand identities to developing human-centered digital experiences required not only technical upskilling but also a mindset shift toward user research and collaboration. Read more>>

Eva Cleaning | Cleaning Business Owner

Success in my case was not defined by only one factor, as multiple factors helped me pursue a successful career as a woman solopreneur. These factors included determination, commitment, and perseverance. Determination helped me build my brand from the very beginning to where it is now. The commitment behind each completed goal requires long working hours and limitless possibilities. Thanks to the support of the community and the perseverance of never giving up, I have successfully remained self-employed for the past four years. There were some rough times during which I questioned my decision, but I knew I was determined to achieve greatness. Read more>>

George Tyler Heffley | Guitarist, Artist, Songwriter, Producer, Composer, and Band Leader; my artist name is HEFF

The most important factor behind everything that I’ve been able to accomplish thus far in my career is tenacity; being able to truly identify what I want to achieve and do what I can to do just that. I’m a guitarist, songwriter, band leader, artist, producer, and composer and trying to make it in the music industry is a sheer act of will, especially in the early stages. With having the drive to write music, release it, play shows, and get my art in front of as many people as I can, I’m able to push myself through the bumps-in-the-road that would typically pull people away from continuing. You have to love what you’re doing to keep moving forward and that’s exactly what I’m doing. Another helpful factor that I’ve found to be beneficial is how I’ve been able to establish a good atmosphere of people in my life; bringing forward people that inspire me and don’t add too much to the roadblocks that I have and will run into. Read more>> 

Miss Theo | Healing Artist: Reiki Master, Actor/Model, Photographer, Director, Singer-Songwriter

The most important factor behind my success is authenticity. Staying true to myself and my purpose has been the foundation of everything I do. Whether it’s in relationships, decision-making, or the work I deliver, I focus on being genuine, heart-centered and creative. Authenticity allows me to connect with others on a deeper level, build trust, and create meaningful experiences. It’s not about perfection but about showing up as my real self and doing work that aligns with my passions and purpose. That authenticity has not only helped me stand out but has also kept me grounded and fulfilled which BONUS ultimately shines through in my work. Read more>>

Sophie Helfend | CEO

I believe success is a combination of both luck and things we can control. For me, the “luck” part is having parents and a family who are unwavering in their support. They encourage me to take risks, tackle big challenges, and always strive for more. They’re also there for me when things don’t go as planned, offering emotional security and a safety net whenever I need it. Read more>>

Brett Fleisher | Structural Integration Bodyworker and Community Tea Pourer

I think its loving on people. I am forever curious about where people come from and what’s alive for them. Through my own journey with chronic pain, I have, over many years, developed empathy for human experiences that experience suffering, on an emotional, mental, energetic, spiritual and physical level, which moves them out of their natural way of being in the world. Read more>>

Shantelle “s.ladybug” Brumfield | The Nonprofit Brand Doctor & Executive Director

The most important factor behind my success has been recognizing that I don’t have all the answers—and that seeking professional help, along with implementing a proven business framework, is essential for building something truly sustainable. Early on, I was a scientist juggling a side-hustle crochet fashion venture—driven by passion, but unsure how to scale or even where to start. I remember hoping that a strong work ethic and a good idea might be enough, but I learned very quickly that turning a passion into a thriving enterprise requires more than just determination. It takes systems, accountability, and a willingness to be coached. Read more>>

Valentino Solinas | Master of Classic Taekwon-Do, Flexibility and Mobility Expert, Personal Trainer, Kicking Techniques Expert

The most important factor behind the success of my brand and the achievements in Classic Taekwondo lies in a holistic approach to training. This approach focuses not only on improving the physical aspects of martial arts—such as flexibility, strength, kicking techniques, strikes, and blocks—but also on enhancing overall health and conditioning. I work with people who want to get back in shape, as well as those who are looking to improve their flexibility without necessarily being involved in martial arts. Additionally, I help individuals who want to improve their kicking techniques whether or not they are practicing Taekwondo or any other martial art. Read more>>

Ola Right | Right Fitness CEO | Rebound Fitness Instructor

The most important factor behind my success and the success of my brand is authenticity. Everything I do is rooted in my passion for helping others, and I stay true to that purpose no matter what. I believe people connect with me and my brand because they can see the genuine care I have for their growth—whether it’s physical, emotional, or personal. Read more>>

Norma Rodriguez | Realtor/Team Leader

In the journey of building and growing my business, I have learned that persistence is one of the most crucial factors for success. The entrepreneurial landscape is filled with challenges, uncertainties, and unexpected obstacles, and it is through persistence that I navigate these hurdles and continue to move forward. Read more>>

Josh Ross Nicholas Rose | Founders & owners – Estate Sale Professionals

The driving force behind my success—and the success of our brand—is the deep passion we pour into what we do, which goes far beyond just “work.” For us, this business isn’t just about estate sales or liquidation; it’s about honoring the legacy of the people and objects we’re entrusted with. Read more>>

Chad Mckinsey | Producer & Drummer

Professionalism is at the core of everything I do. I believe the first and most recent impressions we leave are what stick with people. When collaborating on music, playing drums in the studio/in a band, or engineering in the studio, I give my all to ensure my love and passion for the project shine through in every aspect of my work. Read more>>

Tj Johnson | Barber

I Would Have To Say Consistency And Not Being Scared To Evolve With New Products And Hairstyles. Read more>>

Omar Saad | Chef/Owner of Pickles & Peas Foodtruck

The most important factor behind our success is staying true to what we set out to do and that is to take our guests on a journey through Lebanon. We do that by using traditional recipes and fresh ingredients that elevate the textures and bold flavors of our home country. Read more>>

Stephanie Carchia | Los Angeles Luxury Realtor

First and foremost, my goal is to be in service to others. Buying and selling real estate is centered around life’s most precious moments (both happy and sad) and it is a privilege to be the one guiding these individuals through these life milestones. It is not a process you can rush or force to get a “quick sale”. Which leads me to the next factor I believe has led to my success, I focus on relationships not transactions. I am not in sales, I am in relationship management. Should the process be forced or rushed, it’s possible to close the deal but it’s also highly likely the client will be left feeling uneasy in that scenario. Again, this is a huge milestone if their life and my measure of success is not whether we close the deal but whether they are happy with the entire experience. Read more>> 

Rita Simpson | Design Consultant & Small Business Owner

My brand is built on a dream: the dream shared by all wanderlusters who have an insatiable desire to travel and see the world. Wanderlust Vintage Design creates curated tiny home on wheels to take people on an adventure of a lifetime. This is my passion project: because I love what I do, that passion spreads to my client base and has evolved very organically and quickly. I am not only passionate about travel, I love to design the trailers I work on to be customized to the unique aesthetic of each of my clients. The single most important factor that has led to the success of my brand is my ability to work collaboratively to design the dream home on wheels my customers have envisioned.  Read more>>

Lee Begim | Owner & Chef

The most important factor behind the success of Noga Bread Co. is our incredible community. From the beginning, our mission has been not just to bake, but to connect—with the people we feed, the farmers we support, and the families who place our bread on their tables. Food quality and its origins matter deeply to us, and we’re passionate about spreading awareness of the importance of real, wholesome ingredients. Read more>>

Josh Schuschke | Scholar

I always credit any success I’ve had to my community. My community includes friends, family, fellow organizers, and youth that have participated in my research. As a scholar, it is important to recognize the various ways that the people we share space with are constantly informing our intellectual work and how our ancestors and those that came before us laid the ground work for not only our success, but also provided pathways for us to continue our fight for liberation. There is no success without community and I view having such an incredible network of collaborators as essential to achieving our individual and collective goals. When people see my achievements I hope they see the people I surround myself with too, and I hope those people see themselves in my success. Read more>>

David Goldstein | Real estate investor and restorer of historical buildings

The most important factor behind success is loving what you do. When you genuinely enjoy your work, it doesn’t feel like work—it feels like a fulfilling hobby or passion that also happens to earn you a living. This mindset allows you to focus less on the cost or challenges of a project and more on the final outcome. Envisioning the result before starting is crucial; it’s about having a clear vision and ensuring that the finished project aligns with that vision. Many people struggle to visualize their goals ahead of time, but being able to do so is what sets true artists and successful individuals apart. Read more>>

Paul Rahn | CEO / Founder

Boundaries. Early on in my career a lack of creating boundaries and a perimeter in which to operate my business really challenged my success. After many developmental situations, long periods of looking deep into my work life balance, and other various elements I create very clear boundaries for myself in my business. Some of the boundaries that have supported my success include sticking to clear policies for both clients and employees, having a clear “hours of operation” and ensuring its communicated appropriate, being a service based business I eliminated any discounts or deal making to ensure consistency, and setting perimeters around my calendar access. Read more>>

Marquis Fergusson | Freelance Artist/Small Business Owner

The most important factor for me is creating products that people can enjoy! It always brings a big smile to my face whenever I can make someone’s day with my art, and it’s a big part of why i do what I do. Read more>>

Julian Arroyuelo | Actor, bodybuilder and model

I think that the most important thing that made me succeed, in the big and small achievements that I have had and have in my life, is without a doubt discipline. Read more>>

Grant Terzakis | Actor

Leave your ego at the door. Take big swings. Learn from your mistakes. The times that I have felt like I knew it all are the times I have found the least success. Ego creates a comfortable complacency. I’m not saying don’t think you have talent. When auditioning its imperative to believe that you are better than everyone else for the role, but have an eagerness to learn. The best way to learn is to make mistakes. For example if you get a note or an adjustment, take the note. Don’t get defensive. That defensiveness is just your ego protecting itself and that is not a growth mindset whatsoever. Learning never happens when you are comfortable. Read more>>

Tania Clark | Professional Ballroom Dancer & Co-Owner of JT Ballroom Dance Studio

Having clear and precise values and missions. Both my husband and I have been in the arts the majority of our lives. We have experienced any and all types of studios and after spending so much time in these different environments surrounded by different types of dancers and coaches, we also knew what the community was lacking and needed. We had a strong mission and a deep belief in our system of teaching and wanted to share that. JT Ballroom Dance Studio officially opened in 2019 in Tarzana and we are so proud to have become one of LA’s top studios in this short amount of time. Read more>>

Su Jiang | Video Editor

Passion is the most imporant factor. Because if you love what you are doing, you will have the motivation and energy to keep spending your time and love on it. Then if you can earn or get benefits from it, you will have more passion and energy to invest more on it. Read more>>

Shanshan Yuan

The driving force behind my success has always been my boundless curiosity. I’m continually exploring and testing the latest technologies—whether it’s being an early beta user for groundbreaking tools like Apple Vision Pro, new AI advancements, or the latest design platforms, you name it. This passion for staying ahead ensures I’m always equipped with cutting-edge knowledge and insights that I can bring back to my work. Read more>>

Evan Curtis Charles Hall

House Museum’s mission is centered on people, due to the social nature of our practice. Each historic landmark is a repository of oral histories, lived experiences, and layers of residue left by former inhabitants and caretakers. These historic structures are charged by the lives and events that took place within or around them, and as a 501c3 nonprofit organization, House Museum must listen to our collaborators, which includes the materials from the past, historical societies, property owners, artists, and municipal governments. It’s important for us to be sensitive and respectful with each site-specific project because our work is only realized through the unification of diverse partners. Read more>>