We asked some brilliant folks from the community to talk to us about how they think about risk and the role risk has played in their lives and careers.

Tierra Jackson

The key to success is taking risks. I’ve always believed that what separates successful people from unsuccessful ones is the willingness to take risks. Fearless ambition has always driven me—both in business and in life.

At 15 years old, I took a risk by becoming a full-time makeup artist with no prior work experience. At 20 years old, I took another leap, moving 700 miles away to a city where I had no friends, family, or clients—all to pursue my career. Read More>>

Gemi

Risk is an inherent part of both personal and professional growth. I believe that taking risks is essential for progress and innovation. It’s about stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing uncertainty, which can lead to new opportunities and growth. In my career, taking risks has often meant going after opportunities that seemed daunting at first, whether that was pursuing a new role, investing in a project, or trying something unconventional in my work. Read More>>

Turquisha Lasker-Smith

As a school counselor, I’ve found that stepping out of my comfort zone has been key to personal and professional growth. Taking calculated risks—like introducing new programs or advocating for students in unconventional ways—has allowed me to better support their diverse needs. For example, collaborating with teachers to address sensitive issues has helped create a more inclusive and supportive school environment. Embracing these challenges has not only enhanced my skills but also positively impacted the students I work with. Read More>>

Karen Thompson

I come from a background in Interior Design and worked for a large corporation. I built my life around getting a regular paycheck and for a while the work was fulfilling. As I began practicing my creativity more and opening up to the canvas, my interests and passion shifted more into that direction. Read More>>