Where you grew up and your background can often have surprising effects on our lives and careers. We’ve asked folks from the community to tell us about how their background has affected them.

Susanna TUNG | motion designer

I ‘m from Taiwan and am a motion designer that recently graduated from Savannah College of Art and Design. In college, I studied at a medical school. I have never thought that I would become someone working in the artistic field. The turning point happened when I took a video editing and animation course in my senior year of college. Read more>>

 Coolie | Actress & model

I’m from the Bronx New York born and raised but my parents are from Kingston Jamaica, suh yuh know seh mi have likkle island vibes in ah mi. My background and upbringing taught me backbone, strength, resilience, and maturity. Being from the Caribbean you learn how to do for yourself from young, for example cook, clean, wash clothes. Read more>>

Dee Taylor | Owner & Designer

I’m originally from Stamford, CT. My family moved from there at the beginning of my first grade year to the Farmville, VA area on the countryside. My mother’s family is from there. At the end of 3rd grade we moved to Columbia, SC. We went to visit one of my dad longtime friends and decided to move there. My brother’s and I were excited to get out of the country. I spent a good portion of my childhood in South Carolina. Read more>>

Ky’Wuan Dukes | College Athlete/Brand Ambassador/Influencer

I was born in Charleston, SC but deeply connected in Pineville, And Moncks Corner. I grew up in Statesville, NC which is a small town near Charlotte, NC with very few business and things to do but lots of talented people who may become distracted from there actual purpose. Going through things since a young age has brought determination and ambition in me no matter the situation, time, or day. Having a strong grandmother, Read more>>