Every overnight success we’ve seen has been years in the making. And those overnight successes are rarely because of an amazing idea or a stroke of luck. We asked some of our favorite folks from the community about what characteristics are at the heart of their success story?

Fred Tian | DJ

There are many important factors but I’d say the most important would be music knowledge. Having nice gear and equipment is all good but being a good DJ is still the foundation of my company. In the DJ world, there is a term called open-format DJing. Read more>>

Jordan Colletta | Evangelist, Business Owner and Real Estate Agent

Jordan has long had a passion for people, faith, music and business. Whether working at UPS (he retired 10 years ago), selling commercial and residential real estate (he’s an active real agent) or co-managing a family business with his wife, Jordan has dedicated time to ministry work. Read more>>

Jamal White | Dancer/Choreographer and Director of Outreach for The Black Artists Dance Collective

Perseverance! I know people mention this often, however I really stand behind this idea. I tried to remain really clear, throughout my career, on what my goals are. Of course there were moments on my path that were extremely difficult and I had to pivot. I learned early on that there were infinite paths to what I aimed to accomplish; this helped me remain creative and encouraged we I felt derailed. Read more>>

Alexandra Faith Thompson | Business Owner

The most important factor behind success is your mind set. I had been saying for a while that I should “be further” than I am. I now know what made me feel that way. It was my me. It was my mind. It was my own disbelief in myself. Read more>>

Anni Bacchus | Television Producer

I have a natural curiosity for people and their stories. As an extrovert, I love meeting new people and figuring out what makes them tick. I am endlessly fascinated by unique experiences others have had in their lives, which is why I love working in the documentary side of the television world. Read more>>

Marc L. | Model/Singer/Songwriter

The most important factor behind my success is being kind to myself. Because I’ve been a perfectionist most of my life, I tend to get so hard on myself to the point where I don’t celebrate the little victories. I’ve learned that it’s the little victories that shape the big victories! Read more>>

Rjay Summers | DJ, Actor, & Chef

I can honestly say the most important factor behind the success of my brand has been my friends, family and social media! My friends and family always support me, and refer me to people. Whether that be for djing or when I sell plates. And social media is a huge part of my success because everyone is on social media. Read more>>

Sarah-Olivia S.O” Gordon | Fitness Trainer

Simply put? Not letting up. Entrepreneurship is a lot! Paired with having to still do life, stay fit, drink water, eat right, maintain relationships, travel, self care, etc? It’s not for the weak. I used to be very emotional about certain aspects of my business because, well its my business! Read more>>

Briana Wright | Multimedia Journalist & Content Creator

The most important factor behind my success so far has been the courage to think BIG. The entertainment industry is dominated by men and popularity/status. I’m a young, Black woman from a small town outside of Philadelphia. I’ve been told no so many times by so many people. Read more>>