Through our work we have had the good fortune of seeing firsthand how success comes in every shape, size, color, faith, and orientation. More importantly we’ve learned that success is often the result of people embracing their unique backgrounds and so we’ve asked the community to tell us about their background and how it has impacted where they are today.

Sonia Maslovskaya | Public Speaking Coach and Communication Expert, Founder of SoniaMPower

When I was 21 I moved to America from across the world and was trying to find myself. In the beginning I felt out of place and struggled to understand some traditions and language. If someone told me at that time that I would be coaching top executives, entrepreneurs and thought leaders on communication and public speaking, I would have never believed them.! But this is how the power of perseverance and following your passion works in combination with some luck and opportunities that can be found in America, and especially in Los Angeles. Read more>>

Joi Harper | Composer, Vocalist, and Teaching Artist

I grew up in Portsmouth, Virginia, a city that is part of the larger area known as Hampton Roads or the “757.” I didn’t know this growing up, but many musical artists come from the area. Think Ella Fitzgerald, Pharell Williams, Victor Wooten, and Missy Elliot who just had a street named after her near where I grew up. But I didn’t actively think about the culture I had around me growing up. Actually, for a lot of my more formative years, I was separated from that culture. Read more>>

Jay Millian | Artist & Producer

Long Beach, CA It plays a big part in the music i make because thats all i grew up around . All you heard banging down the block was the eastsidaz nate dogg warren g etc , Read more>>

Lisa Gopman | Comic, Writer, Actor, Teacher, and Small Theater Co-Owner

I’m originally from Cincinnati Ohio but I moved to LA when I was 18 to attend USC. My dad, Arnie, who was eccentric, hilarious, and extremely supportive encouraged me in a tremendous way. Thanks to him, I had the courage to come to LA, and to embrace the lifelong comedy of being a Gopman. Read more>>

Billie Essco | Contemporary Artist

Im from Buffalo, NY. It’s a small city in Western New York that is very unique, rural, community based but also very segregated. Its a place were race is very prevalent but also blends in a very interesting way when it does come together. Growing up in Buffalo was interesting because it was very fulfilling as a child because of the tight knit, close proximity community but as you grew older you realize how many ordinary resources and outlets did not exist within the city limits. Read more>>

Franklin Vanderbilt | Drummer, Singer, Songwriter, and Actor

I was born and raised on Chicago’s West side, My family encouraged the development of my innate musical talents. As soon as I could crawl I was banging on pots and pans, and by the age of 5, I was seated on a Ludwig drum kit given to me by my Father and Grandfather. This began a childhood filled with music. Influenced by my Uncle, Robert Vanderbilt, who fronted his own gospel group, The Foundation of Souls, I played in church and school bands until my teens, Read more>>

Kristin McGinnis | Vocal Performer, Opera Singer, Session Singer, Student

I was born and raised in the San Fernando Valley and was interested in music from a very early age. On my 4th birthday, I was performing “Sing” by The Carpenters for everyone at my party to hear. My dad introduced classic rock to me by playing The Eagles or The Carpenters CDs during every car ride. Once I got to middle school, I instantly joined the choral and instrumental program, my first true introduction to classical music. I was jumping around six instrumental ensembles and choir after school, taking every opportunity possible to be surrounded by music. Read more>>

Ioanna Meli | Actor & Filmmaker

I was born and raised in Athens, Greece, and I feel so lucky to call it my home! It is one of the most lively and welcoming places in the world, full of history, art, beautiful scenery and delicious food. My mom and dad have always approached life with joy, open-mindedness and honesty and that’s what shaped who I am today. They gave my brother and I opportunities to learn, encouraged us to explore and in the process I became my own person. I am infinitely grateful to them for always guiding and cheering me on in what I chose to do. Read more>>