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.

Jordon Johnson | Independent Recording Artist & Influencer

My name is Jor’Don and Im from Southfield Michigan! Growing up my father worked for Delta airlines so I’ve flown for free most of my life. Traveling the world at such a young age taught me to never limit myself or box myself into a set place or environment! It showed me that there are so many different walks of life outside of the one we were born into and it’s up to us to decide what works best for us! Read more>>

Lexx Brown-James | Phd level sexologist

I am from College Park Georgia., grew up Baptist, Black,fat and not the highest ses. I Also grew up with a 2 parent household and I think all of these things impact that I am today. I am still a black fat Southerner I’m also queer so clear and it is my it is my goal to help lovers of color connect intimately As well as help others raise kids with shamefree sex ed. Read more>>

Steven Davis | Business owner

2 things about risk. First is that when starting a business i think caution is thrown to the wind. It’s calculated. I think that’s what mashes a good business thrive. There’s I’m certain ventures or certain changes that need to be made what are the risks and how will they affect not only the business but other downstream factors of they apply. Read more>>

Austin Berndt | Video Editor

I was born and raised right here in Southern California. My parent’s plan was for my father to work, while my mom raised me and my older sister until we were both in school, and then she’d return to work so they could earn a duel income. This plan changed once our school district was abusive towards my sister. Read more>>

Yun Yao | Illustrator/Designer

I was born in China and have lived in the United States for the past seven years. I believe that the social and environmental circumstances, as well as my own experiences, have contributed to my current state as a result of my upbringing in China. Read more>>

melodi tuna | Assistant Director

I am from Istanbul, Turkey. I moved to Los Angeles to pursue my dream of becoming an assistant director in the movie business. I am coming from a place where there is a lot of culture, religion and traditions exist. Read more>>

Komal Shah Kapoor, Ph.D. | CEO, SpeakerPost

I am originally from India. I came to this country in my 20s for graduate school at Wayne State University in Michigan. The support I received from the college faculty changed my life. I loved the independence and opportunities that the US offered and chose to make America home. Read more>>

Deb Lopez | Portrait Photographer

I was born and raised in North Hollywood by a Mexican father and Honduran mother. My mom would take my sister and I to work with her cleaning houses, and later do the cooking and cleaning in our home. My dad worked in construction, and was a great musician who practiced for hours and hours when he got home. They’re both extremely loving, hard working people. Read more>>

Reagan Marelle Begley | CEO/Designer

I am from Salt Lake City, Utah, but studied Fashion Design at The Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandise in Los Angeles where I graduated with my AA in Fashion Design and my Advanced Degree specifically in the Business of Denim. My studies while getting my AA is what lead me towards denim and starting Hargan Denim. Read more>>

Emmerson Bockarie | Musician

I am from Sierra Leone, Born and raised in the Capital city of Freetown. My inspiration into music was drawn from attending schools that has curriculums in creative art, music, dance and drama. now I’m using my songs to showcase the rich cultural heritage of my country. Read more>>