Even if you are from the same neighborhood as someone else, you might still be coming from different places. Where you are from is a complicated question and it elicits complicated, but interesting and thought-provoking responses. We’ve shared some of those responses below.

Sabrina Viramontes | Licensed Clinical Social Worker | Creative | Cycle-breaker

I grew up in the city of Norwalk, California, a suburb in the Southeast of LA county. I’m a first generation Mexican-American woman, and I’m also the oldest daughter of both parents who are also first-born children. You know what they say about the first-born daughter? She’s caring, dependable, responsible and high-achieving etc. Read more>>

Viridiana Rodriguez | Latina Mental Health Therapist

I’m Mexican-American raised in Anaheim, CA and currently reside in Long Beach, CA. I’m the youngest in my family and first generation in breaking many cycles. Being the first Latina to leave home without being married or not having any kids has made an impact in the typical mold of what is “normal” in our culture. Read more>>

Johnny La | Actor & Entrepreneur

Hello Shoutout LA, I appreciate the invite for this wonderful press interview. My name is Johnny La, and I am an Actor and Entrepreneur. I was born and raised in San Jose, California. I was fortunate to have been raised by hard-working parents and grew up with wonderful siblings. My parents have always inspired me to work hard and allowed me to pursue my dreams today. Read more>>

Tess Marie | Professional Makeup Artist

I was born and raised in Anaheim, CA with my parents and two older brothers. My mother always loved DIY projects and my father who is an engineer would take a similar approach of creativity by building whatever came to his mind. So naturally as a kid, I often found myself drawn to creative aspects of life because it was all around me. Read more>>

Christian Zezza | Guitarist – Producer/Composer

I’m a guitarist, composer/producer and music educator from Italy working professionally in the Music Industry for over 20 years. I graduated in contemporary guitar and music harmony at the Academy of Music in my hometown Modena, Italy. I also attended a certified guitar program at Musicians Institute, Hollywood, CA. Read more>>