There are so many factors that affect how our lives turn out, but one of the most interesting is how our backgrounds give us unique strengths and perspectives that affect who we are as adults. We asked rising stars from the community to tell us about their background and upbringing and how they feel it’s impacted who they are today.

Phoenix Freedom | Freelance Lifestyle Journalist, Writer, Content Creator and Podcaster covering stories about mental health, self-development, overcoming trauma, and living authentically.

I was born in New York City in Harlem Hospital, however my mother is from Belize and my father is from Haiti. I was to sent to Belize at two weeks old to be raised by my grandparents and felt that I lost that maternal connection with my mother. That truly affected my life in so various ways, but the unconditional love, compassion, and safety given to me by my grandparents made all the difference in the world for me. Read more>>

Adrian Smith Jr. | “Yarray” Music Producer, Artist & Engineer

I am from Newnan Ga. My background and upbringing undoubtably impacted who I am today in every way. I was born into a family full of singers and musicians. My mother sang in a gospel group with her mom and sisters, my father was a gospel singer / musician as well. Read more>>

The Scenic Collective | Rock Band

Our band is made up of three members: Don Honeyghan (vocals, guitar), Dylan Allen (vocals, drums, guitar), and Christina Hogg (vocals, piano). All three of us come from different parts of the country, but we met in high school in a small town outside of Atlanta, GA. Read more>>

Denean Jackson | Interior Designer

I’m originally from Milwaukee, WI. My husband and I moved to Charlotte, NC almost 16 years ago with our children. Growing up in Milwaukee was amazing. My upbringing molded me to be resilient and to go get what I want. At a young age, I saw my mom and dad support my brother and me as a young married couple. Making sure our home was always nice and that we always had just what we needed. Read more>>

Darrian Cotton | Owner of 590 Photography.

I’m from Detroit,MI but I’ve been living in Atlanta for the last 2 years. I thank my wife and my parents for making me into the man I am today. My parents for never making excuses and always having that Detroit mentality of “hustle harder”. Read more>>

Darnique | Healthcare Administrator and Podcaster

I am from the greatest place on earth -NEW YORK CITY!! Southside Jamaica Queens, to be exact. I grew up in a Caribbean household and I believe my upbringing has impacted the person I am today. My parent’s has instilled morals, values, and being taught that nothing is handed to you-hardwork pays off. Read more>>

Jude Kamal | Founder & Interior Designer at Sansa Interiors Inc.

I was born and raised and lived a good chunk of my life in Amman, Jordan. When I talk about my background and upbringing, for some reason, people are intrigued by it. Probably because it was not very traditional, or perhaps because my family was unconventional. I cannot pin-point it so I will share with you and you can decide for yourself. Read more>>

Tenichi Huff | Artist

I’m from Covington, GA. Like most other cities, Covington has it’s “hoods”, and I grew up in Jamestown, one of few hoods in Covington. Growing up in Jamestown, I seen a lot. I’ve seen shootouts, drug deals, high speed chases, etc. Seeing all of that at a young age definitely showed me it’s a crazy world out here. Made me realize what I DIDN’T want to be like. Read more>>

Brittney Jasmine | Pro Makeup Artist & Business Owner

I am from Ermineskin Cree Nation which is one of the four First Nations of Maskwacis, Alberta. I was raised by my grandparents because my parents were so young when they had me. I loved being around my grandparents, they were the best caregivers & always had my best interest! Growing up I was always told that I can be anything I wanted to be & to work hard in every aspect. Read more>>