One of our favorite things to do is to ask the folks we are inspired by what they are inspired by. We’ve shared some of their responses below.

Hana Azab | Visionary Media Designer

I’ve been spending a lot of time in public spaces like the Central Library in Downtown LA, the Beverly Hills Library, and Brand Park/Art Center. These places feel like a Renaissance painting coming to life, filled with stories that reflect the diverse lives of the city. At the Central Library, for instance, you might see someone with all their belongings in a cubicle next to me, accompanied by a stack of books. Nearby, a family is spread out across sections, or in the makerspace, someone is 3D printing their next big idea. It’s incredibly inspiring to see how these spaces bring together such a rich mix of people, all contributing to and imagining a better future by simply taking up space in a community haven. Read more>>

Audrey Roloff | Filmmaker & Editor

When I create something, inspiration is always present. Trying to create something without it feels forced and unauthentic. Inspiration surrounds me on a daily basis, especially living in New York. When it comes down to the core of what drives my art, I lean into my emotions, spirituality and environment. Anything that I create has to be personal to me, a topic that energizes my soul. It could be derived from a past experience I had, then expanded into a broader story that other people can relate to. Read more>>

Silvana Sarkis | Silvana Sarkis, J.D., CDRE™ CPRES, SRES Certified Divorce Real Estate Expert Certified Probate Real Estate Specialist Senior Real Estate Specialist License #01495013

As a Business owner, we have to have faith in ourselves.As a realtor, I am often asked what inspires me in my work. The answer is simple: it’s the people, the places, and the possibilities. Read more>>

Jaron Smalls | Musical Artist & Singer/Songwriter

My life experiences and my ear for music shape my art. Growing up in a sheltered environment, there were times when I could only hold an opinion internally before eventually expressing it, whether it took days, weeks, months, or even years. As a child, I relied on friends to introduce me to new music. When I connect with a piece, I feel it profoundly, and that emotion then flows into my melodies and creative expression. Read more>>

Selena Mars | Musician Actress Filmmaker

I am inspired by the world around me. Inspiration can come from something I’ve experienced, my environment, or interactions. I draw from all of my real life experiences and use them in the creative process, whether I am writing music or producing a film. Read more>>

Tatiana Tkachenko | Tattoo artist & Designer

As an artist and tattooist, I draw my inspiration from a rich tapestry of sources. I find immense motivation in the work and successes of other artists, whose creativity and innovation continually push me to explore new horizons. The energy, vibes and passion they bring to their art fuel my own desire for growth and self-improvement. I’m also deeply inspired by the ever-evolving world around me, where each day presents new opportunities to learn and evolve. Read more>> 

Gabella Correa | OC & LA Portrait Photographer

the people around me inspire me. Read more>>

Troy Griffin | Psychic Medium, Talent Manager

I am inspired by people who have a positive impact on life and others. Read more>>

Kevin Patel | American Climate Activist

I’m inspired by the resilience and determination of young people who refuse to accept the status quo. Seeing how they mobilize, innovate, and advocate for change, often in the face of immense challenges, fuels my passion for climate action. I’m also deeply inspired by nature itself—the intricate ecosystems and the way every element is interconnected. Read more>>

Jocelyn Jonaneth | Artist, Actress, Model

First and foremost, my greatest inspiration is God. He is the most divine creator of this amazing gift we call life! Out of all his creations, I’m most inspired by soulfulness, romanticism, the ocean, the stars and the sky. Read more>>

Anita Hartog | Commercial Agent, Founder of One Heart At A Time Foundation, Podcast Host on “The Other Side” & Speaker

I’m deeply inspired by the opportunity to help others. Life has its way of throwing curveballs, with its ups and downs, often feeling inconsistent and, if I’m being honest, sometimes exhausting. I find immense joy in easing that burden for others by doing my very best to get them exactly what they need or are searching for in those moments. Read more>>

Melanie Hernandez | Public Figure

There are definitely several things that inspired me to do what I do now. I grew up in a very musical family. My mother had a singing career in the Philippines and my father had been in rock bands since he was 12 years old. When they met here in the USA, they formed a few bands and have been doing music together ever since. Music and musical instruments were always around in my household and it was only natural for me to just start singing and playing. I always wanted to sing and play like my parents when I grew up. Read more>>

Min-wei Ang | Architectural Designer & 3D Artist

Many, if not most of the themes I chose to explore within my work are directly inspired by the process of filmmaking, particularly in the science fiction genre. I view speculative fiction as a tool to dissect our lived realities, a lens to understand and imagine our past, present and future. There is a complexity in the building of a believable world that I am eager to emulate in my own process. Read more>>

Lakaysha Redd | Entrepreneur & Social Justice Advocate

Throughout my life, the sources of my inspiration have evolved as I’ve grown and entered different stages. Right now, I’m in a phase focused on growth and elevation, and I find myself deeply inspired by my Higher Power, God. Connecting with fellow believers and celebrating all the incredible things God has done for me fills my spirit with hope and purpose. Read more>>

Ariel Landrum

Inspiration for me is deeply rooted in my personal experiences and the people who have shaped my life. One of the most profound influences has been my father. He was a single dad who raised my brother and me while maintaining a full-time military career—a feat that required immense sacrifice and strength. Despite his challenges, he never wavered in his commitment to us, and he always spoke about us with pride. Read more>>

Aleksey Boyk

I’m inspired by Scandinavian culture, featuring elements. I’m inspired by the north. I was born and raised in a very cold and harsh place, so I’m imbued with folk ornaments and culture, which is a national treasure there. Read more>>