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?

David Vandelay | Independent Artist

Despite being an “independent artist”, I absolutely couldn’t have achieved this level of professionalism (in terms of production quality) if it weren’t for the University of Miami. My producers, Erik Gunnarsson and Camilo Salas, are two graduate students from the Frost School of Music at UM, and it is no exaggeration to say that they have made my dreams come true. Read more>>

Jalen Daniels | Singer, Actor and Producer

There are so many factors that go into the manufacturing of my success, however, there is one thing, in particular, my success is predicated on, a straightforward method I call “being informed”. Many people fail in life and business simply due to the lack of that 2-word phrase. I pride myself on being informed in my niche, I sincerely believe that pioneers and moguls are not who they are because they’re better than others or because they are God’s favorite but because they are very knowledgeable about their business. Read more>>

Marmar Stewart | Entrepreneurship Development Coordinator, Refugee Women’s Network

I don’t believe in sitting around and waiting for someone else to do something. If you see a problem that needs to be fixed or an opportunity to make something happen, do not wait—make it happen. Read more>>

Alex Villarreal | Profesional Cosplayer

Persistence. You gotta keep going even though others may try to drag you down, you have to have the will power to keep going forward! Growing up, I was super fascinated with cosplaying and dressing up. I made it a goal to have the best Halloween costume every year since that was the one day that I knew I could dress up. One day as a normal 10 year old would I found a YouTube video with animated characters in real life which is how I found out about cosplaying. Read more>>

Colin Leonard | Mastering Engineer & Owner of SING Mastering

I believe doing the best possible work I can for my clients and providing excellent customer service makes SING Mastering the best in the marketplace. Read more>>

Shelton R. Johnson | Award Winning Director and Screenwriter

Faith. I’m a Christian, and faith is what keeps me moving forward boldly towards my vision. It’s also what keeps me working hard consistently, because I know faith without works is dead, and the prize is given to the one who endures. Read more>>

Tequia ‘StormyMonday’ Gladden | Creator and Entrepreneur

Consistency and Reinvention! I get discouraged like anybody else BUT I never give up, I never stop, I am constantly creating new ideas and new ways to stay relevant. I have reinvented myself and my business many times! I stay fresh and new. Read more>>

Nai Remy | Television News Reporter

This is such a great question! I would definitely say having faith and not being afraid of failure is a major factor behind my success. I have always been one to take that chance that many may avoid, because being scared can block out so many opportunities. Read more>>