We asked some of the city’s hidden gems to tell us about what they feel is the most important factor behind their success.

Maia Sylba | Owner, editor at Musetouch visual arts magazine

The foundation of my brand’s success rests on a deep and passionate connection to the world of art. It’s a blend of imagination, emotion, and unwavering dedication that drives me forward. Each piece of work, every artist I feature, is part of a broader mission to not only display art but to celebrate the stories, emotions, and lives that inspire it. Read more>>

Alrinthea Carter | Writer & Performer

The biggest, most important factor behind the success that I’ve had at this point in my career is the support of my community. Years ago I learned that surrounding yourself with people who want to see you succeed and are eager to help you achieve your goals (while allowing you to support theirs). Basically your personal Board of Directors. My family, friends, and industry mentors have cheered me on, given me advice, lifted me emotionally, and given me tough love when needed. Writing is a solitary practice, but success is a group effort. Read more>>

Samantha Sao | Poet, Author, & Event Curator

Human connection is truly the essence of what we do. That realization hit home for me when I began curating events with my business partner, Celinda Cruz-Arce (@cellys_sweets). Our first event in March 2024 brought together creatives and small business owners, creating a platform for them to share their stories. We also included an open mic segment, where some poets took the brave step of performing their pieces for the first time. By the end of the night, we were in awe of the vibrant community that had come together. Read more>>

Tammy Gibson | Personal Branding Coach | Speaker | Amputee Advocate

My entrepreneurial journey has been a series of edits—filled with unique opportunities and unexpected pivots. Each new experience has deepened my understanding of who I am as a businesswoman, constantly evolving and refining my approach. Read more>>

Ella Cannon | Actor & Co-Founder of Midnight Madhouse Productions

The first thing that popped into my head was ‘others’. Obviously I think my own persistence and passion for what I’m doing has been essential, and without that, I never would’ve made it to my starting block. But being prepared and excited made me a magnet for others, who in turn wanted to either support my journey or be a part of it. I’m surrounded by incredible people that I credit daily for my successes and that truly has made all the difference. It’s something I love so much about the entertainment industry, it’s a traveling circus and the only way we can move forward is by getting together and performing our respective ‘acts’ to make the show complete. We have to catch each other, and so how you treat these people and how you show up to work alongside them is essential to not just the success of the finished product, but to your own success moving forward. Read more>>

S.j. Carson | Novelist & Poet

I’d say it’s tenacity. I’ve been writing in some form since I was about five years old. No matter what else was going on in my life, I made time to develop my craft and tell my stories. Before I completed my first novel, Aveline, which comes out from The Wild Rose Press on October 9, 2024, I started dozens of manuscripts. Most of those will never see the light of day. However, they taught me how to write a novel. It’s not a straightforward or linear process. Read more>>

Naina Arora | UGC Creator, Content & Social Media Strategist

The most important factor behind my success as a creator is being vulnerable and authentic. In a world where we spend so much time on social channels, I believe people are craving realness. There’s so much content out there, but a lot of it can leave us feeling disconnected or discouraged. When I started embracing my own challenges and sharing them openly, I realized I was doing something meaningful. Read more>>

Isabella Blake Thomas | Actor, Producer, CEO

The most important factor behind my success and the success of my brand, Mother Daughter Entertainment, lies in our commitment to creating content that matters. This principle guides every project we undertake, ensuring that our work resonates with audiences on a deeper level. My mum and I have an incredible relationship that has fostered a collaborative and creative environment. Starting a production company felt natural because we’ve always made films together, and now we can put a name to our shared vision. Read more>>

Tania Friedlander | Executive & Leadership Coach

The most important factor behind my success is my unwavering commitment to being of service to others. I’ve found that true fulfillment and impact come from dedicating myself to providing immense value and support to those I work with. Read more>>

Casey Miller | Actor & Non-Profit Leader

Finding ways to keep the passion a passion instead of just work. I always say that if I quit acting tomorrow (which, to be clear, I have no plan on doing), I would still be a film fanatic. There are really outstanding programs in LA like the American Cinematheque, Vidiots, The New Bev, Secret Movie Club, that really underscore why film is such a cultural necessity and how magical it is, and I think those resources can be incredibly encouraging to people who work in film in any sense. My best friend Gunnar is also an actor (who, by the way, has a series airing on Comedy Central right now called Everybody Still Hates Chris!) and he showed me how falling in love with all elements of filmmaking and international film and historic film can elevate and inform the way that we make art today. Read more>>

Mk Mcmanus | Actor, Actor & Actor

The most important factor behind my success is a relentless commitment to growth and preparation. Whether it’s stepping into a role or crafting a character, I’m constantly asking myself, ‘How can I be better today? One step, everyday! That mindset drives everything I do. I believe preparation, consistency, and a positive attitude on and off set are the keys to success. I’ve learned that you can’t just wait for opportunities to come to you have to be ready when they do. For me, success comes from showing up fully prepared and giving 110% to every project I’m involved in, whether it’s acting, business, or life. Read more>>

Mika Kovacs | Tattoo Artist

The bond I create with my clients as bloodxbonds is rooted in trust, creativity, and shared experience, and I believe this connection is the heart of my success. Tattooing is far more than just placing ink on skin—for me it’s about collaboration, taking each persons vision, story or emotion and transforming them into art with care. There’s a quiet beauty in these bonds, in the way a client entrusts me with their skin, allowing me to bring it to life in a deeply personal, permanent way.  Read more>>

Lauren Brazile | President of We Grow LA and Talent Manager

Throughout my journey, themes of love, compassion, grace, excitement, fun, and exploration have been integral to both my personal life and my work. I approach challenges with love and compassion, ensuring that I serve others with kindness and understanding. I infuse excitement and fun into my projects, making them not only impactful but also enjoyable for those involved. Read more>>

Matthew Fata | Dancer, Choreographer & Educator

The most important factor behind my success would have to be to letting happiness be my guide. When I first moved to Los Angeles, I got lost in trying to take the path most had already carved out, but I later realized it wasn’t truly fulfilling me. After reevaluating and truly understanding what made me happy, things started to align. That guide of happiness lead me to embrace my authenticity as a dancer and choreographer and stand out in an extremely difficult industry. I believe that I will always strive for excellence because I am fighting for something that I am so passionate about. Read more>>

Lingyi Kong | Creative Technologist, Designer, Digital Artist

One key factor behind my success has been the resilience I developed in merging two seemingly unrelated fields—illustration and programming. With a diverse academic background, I’ve always been drawn to both the creative and technical aspects of design. However, integrating these disciplines was a challenge that required years of learning, practice, and perseverance. Read more>>

Krizia Lee | Founder, Creative, CEO

The key to my success ironically is that I don’t focus on myself but focus on the success of my clients. I’m committed to not only helping them achieve their goals but exceeding their expectations. I strive to create a dynamic and enjoyable environment where work feels more like a collaborative experience than a task with whoever I work with. This truly strengthens creativity, productivity, and meaningful connections, allowing my clients and myself to thrive together. Read more>>

Zelly Vibes | Singer songwriter

The most important factor behind success I believe is to learn how to regulate your emotions during stressful situations. It starts with mental health, if one works on getting the mind strong, I feel is the foundation to a better quality of life that can allow you to think clearly and find solutions on those challenging days. Building a brand is not easy it will have ups and downs, a lot of people give up when it gets difficult but it’s who does not quit who can continue to expand and accomplish their goals. Read more>>

Jade Lee | Los Angeles Content Creator

The most important factor behind the success of my brand, @fuwud_bae, is my ability to create engaging and authentic food content that resonates with my audience. I have a unique skill for showcasing new restaurants and dishes with lively voiceovers, detailed descriptions of flavors, and an emphasis on freshness and quality. This personal, approachable style combined with my focus on visually appealing, Instagram-worthy content helps build trust and engagement with my followers. Additionally, my strategic collaborations and giveaways help foster community interaction and expand my reach. Read more>>

Claudia Matles | Yoga and Pilates Instructor

Claudia Matles redefines the art of yoga and Pilates by crafting deeply personalized, transformative sessions that go beyond the physical. Her approach is rooted in truly understanding each client’s unique body, goals, and vulnerabilities. Whether they’re recovering from an injury, managing stress, or striving for peak performance, Claudia tailors every movement, pose, and breathwork to resonate with their personal journey. Her intuitive ability to connect with clients on a deeper level allows her to create programs that not only challenge the body but also nurture the mind and spirit, leaving clients feeling empowered, balanced, and fully supported in their path to well-being. Read more>>

Joel Celaya | Actor, director, screenwriter and acting coach

The ones who love me, no doubt. I wouldn’t have achieved so many things without their support and care. It’s very evident to me that someone in Heaven loves me, ’cause I’ve been given so many second chances to live, try again and then succeed. On the other hand, I’m so thankful for my parent’s love for me, especially my dad’s, ’cause they have helped me in so many ways: raising me, believing in me and investing their time and resources to help me getting up when I’ve failed. Read more>>