In our view, values and principles are the foundation upon which our lives, careers and relationships are built. So, we asked folks we admire to open up to us about the values and principles that matter most to them.

Vernon François | Global educator, Celebrity hairstylist and brand founder

The value that matters most to me is authenticity. Throughout my career in the hair and beauty industry, I’ve found that staying true to oneself is not only liberating but also essential for genuine connection and lasting impact. Authenticity allows me to bring my full self into every interaction, every creation, and every opportunity, whether I’m working with clients, creating new styles, or engaging with the community. Read more>>

King Champion | Rapper/Lyricist/Musician (Artist)

As a Musician, I am in a career field that is constantly changing, due to trends, social influence, as well as sounds and interest in genres. With this being the case, it can become the norm for artists to just follow trends and release music that they think would be popular or is likely to succeed. With the changes in trends and the rise of the influence that social media has on Music, it is understandable that this is the pathway that may artists take (and since social media has become such a great tool, it could be seen as reckless not to make the most of it). However, in times like tis, one principle that matters to Myself is Integrity/Artistic integrity. Read more>>

Jacquelyn Lin | Illustrator/ Designer

Well-being is one of the most important aspects of my life. No matter what roles we play—whether as students, employees, partners, friends, or children—we all face challenges that demand significant physical and mental energy. To handle these challenges effectively, we need to prepare ourselves. Prioritizing well-being has strengthened both my physical health and mental stability. Read more>>

Liam Cs | Costumer

There are two values that act as cornerstones to my work; one is intentional, the other is more inherent. Firstly, I love learning. I have a strong professional science background and love being able to blend art and science, and especially love the experimentation of “if-thens” in creative spaces. With every piece that I work on, I try to push myself into a new space that I have not been before – that’s anything from expanding my own skill set to trying new materials or finding efficiencies and making my process easier. Read more>>

Jason Lo | Music Professor and Freelance Concert Pianist

Integrity. I got the Integrity award in 3rd grade. Integrity is defined as being honest and high moral upkeep. As I type that, it sounds pious, but I’m not pious. I always felt that I needed to be honest with my qualities, my work, my strengths, and most importantly, myself. I don’t feel comfortable broadcasting a version of myself, because I shouldn’t have to be anyone other than myself. I feel like this translates in my work, as I give honest products. I just don’t want to get myself into a job that I’m not confident doing. As I say in my dating profiles, being a freelance concert pianist provides me with a “meager, but honest living.” Read more>>

Joshua & Emilie Mentrup | Owners & Coffee Enthusiasts at Stella Coffee

At Stella Coffee, the value that matters most to us is community. We believe that our café is more than just a place to grab a coffee—it’s a space where connections are made, stories are shared, and a sense of belonging is fostered. This principle guides everything we do, from the way we interact with our customers to the community events we host. We’re committed to creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels at home, and where we can make a positive impact on the neighborhood we serve. Read more>>

GAAYATRI

Satyameva Jayate. I deeply believe that the more we align ourselves with truth, the more we divine ourselves and usher in harmony. When I was a child, I lived with my parents and Grandparents. My Grandfather had a lifelong love for Hindustani Raaga music. I grew up listening to Hindustani Raaga music and sang along to all the great masters of this practice. I had an absolute favorite artist out of them all – the Sarod maestro and GRAMMY nominee – Ustad Ali Akbar Khan. Read more>>

Jordan Rosato

I’ve found that being a team player has been the most important principal in my career. It’s the guiding light that motivates me to do good work, to choose the right battles, and to continue to be employed. I work in animation and it’s incredibly collaborative. You wouldn’t be able to do what we do without a team of people working on each and every episode or long form movie.  Read more>>