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.

 Joanna White-Oldham

I am from Brooklyn, New York and was raised in the city at a time where learning how to stay safe while being self sufficient laid the groundwork for who I am today. Read More>>

Dr. Hashonah Lockette

Born and raised in New York city has helped me to be able to connect with people from all walks of like because of its rich tapestry of cultures and background. I was inspired to be connected to people to find a way to add value to their lives. It was then I knew “helping people” would be a long-life passion for me. Read More>>

Kamilah Campbell

I was born in Kingston, Jamaica, and raised in the U.S., mostly in Connecticut. Growing up in a Caribbean household meant that hard work wasn’t just encouraged—it was expected. Giving up was never an option. My upbringing was deeply rooted in cultural pride and respect, not just for our own heritage, but for others as well. Those core values—resilience, work ethic, and appreciation for diversity—have shaped who I am today and continue to influence how I show up in both life and business. Read More>>

Noah Seback

I’m an Atlanta native by way of Decatur and now Roswell/Mountain Park. Moving from Intown to the suburbs was pivotal in bringing me to who and where I am today in life. I am and always have been a nonspeaking autistic which means that speech is not my primary means of communication. The words that come out of my mouth aren’t intelligible or reliable most of the time. So this also means I was believed to be a low functioning, the lights are on but no one’s home, profoundly nonproductive member of society. Read More>>