We asked rising stars from the community one of our favorite questions: other than deciding to work for yourself, what was the single most important decision you made that contributed to your success?

Jazmine Nichelle Davis | Actress, Writer, Director of Events and Board Member of Women of Color Unite & Entrepreneur

Moving to Los Angeles for film school, this decision actually happened before I decided to work for myself. I didn’t know that by pursuing an acting career, that I’d be working for myself. The decision to work for myself wasn’t on my agenda until almost 6 months after I graduated with my Master of Fine Arts degree. Read more>>

Imani Baylor | Entrepreneur

Besides deciding to work for myself, the most important decision I have made that contributed to my success is living in the Bay Area permanently after graduating college. I went through so many life changing experiences that shaped who I am today. I don’t think I would have pursued a lot of the things I have done if I made the decision to move back home or somewhere else. When I first moved here during my freshman year of college it felt like home immediately. I felt that I can truly be myself, explore different opportunities, and take advantage of every moment. I worked various jobs and got involved in anything to build my network. I made connections in school, campus events and parties, and especially through work. I get my hustle mentality from my mom and living in the Bay Area you have to have many sources of income to survive. Read more>>

Nadia Deljou | Private Chef & Entrepreneur

The most influential and important decision I made, was choosing to move back to Atlanta. It’s a city I love deeply and experienced much of myself in. Coming back after 3 years in New York, I really came to understand and appreciate it in a different light. For me, community and family is above all else. I grew up in a very culturally rich family where community support and involvement runs deep. Choosing to pursue myself, both in a career sense and personal sense couldn’t have been as successful as it’s been without having the support, engagement, and encouragement of my community. Read more>>