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.

Jiji Ugboma | Founder, Clever-ish Magazine

One significant principle that matters to me is authenticity and staying true to who you are. I’ve learned that you have to stay grounded in your values and be your authentic self regardless of what you do, where you are, and no matter what life throws at you. As you go through life, there will be ups and downs and wins and losses. Staying true to your values ensures that you live life on your terms in that you are not swayed by outside influences or unfavorable occurrences. It also helps you quiet the criticisms and self-doubt. Read more>>

MK Wits | Artist & Songwriter

Love matters most to me as a value and a principle because you have to give love to receive love. The highest valued currency, that’s free to exchange. And when it is truly felt, it is unmatched. Read more>>

Shannon Griffin | Author, Educator, & Activist

Justice is at the center of all of my greatest passions in life, whether through the lens of author, mother, or educator, I continually return to the idea that every individual must be treated equitably and fairly by society. My favorite quote from Maya Angelou, “do the best you can until you know better, and when you know better, do better” perfectly sums up my dedication to the work of social justice. Through my position and privilege, I hope to show solidarity by learning from other’s histories and stories—finding commonalities and connections—and using that knowledge and sense of unity to take action for systemic change. Read more>>

Sandi Khonouta | Certified Lash Technician

The value and principle that means most to me are my passion and pride in the work that I do to make other women feel more confident and empowered, both internally and externally. Read more>>

Jessie Barton | CoOwner of Night Owl Oddities

I think that I’d have to give it to the love my business partner Ashley and I have for our community. She and I met at Morrow High and have spent our whole lives right here in Clayton County. Too many of our neighbors are living below the poverty line and have adopted a mindset consumed by hopelessness and sorrow. It’s the passion she and I share for empowering people that is the most important part. It’s the love we, and our employees have for our family of customers. It’s the calling we feel to educate, enlighten, and generally be here for our community in any way we can. Love changes lives, communities, and the world. It’s that love that motivates us in our own difficult and dark days, and its love that reminds people that they are not alone. Read more>>

Amani Alexis | Real Estate Developer

Save Your Money and Your Money Will Save You. This principle matters most to me in this business of Real Estate for several reasons. Everyone works to see their profit after bills are paid. No matter what the job is. Once you learn discipline to save your money instead of spending it, you’ll see that you will have a much healthier budget to reach your goal in expanding your business and reaching new heights that you weren’t expecting to come this fast. Save your Money and Your Money Will Save You. This is why Reviving Atlanta is a Multi-Million Dollar Company today. Read more>>

Shiquilla ‘Que Bolden | showrunner & writer

one of my valuable principles i go by, is treat others how you want to be treated. considering yourself as royalty while treating others as such, will lead you to finding who’s worthy of being in your kingdom. Read more>>