We were fortunate to catch up with some brilliant artists, creatives and entrepreneurs from throughout the Houston area and they share the wisdom with us below.

Genevieve Wilhelm | Interior Designer

“I am going to make everything around me beautiful – that will be my life.” – Elsie de Wolfe. As an interior designer this quote resonates so deeply with me. I’ve always admired beauty-whether that be in artwork, fashion, nature, or an environment. Read more>>

Nita Howard | Nail Mogul

I actually have a scripture. Romans 8:31 If God be for us, who can be against us? That statement alone makes me fearless! I think about it like this. No matter what the circumstances are, no matter what I’m up against, no matter what is needed, I have the strength, power, and resources to do whatever it is I want to do. Read more>>

Ashley McLemore, MA | Founder and Leadership Consultant

The single most important decision I made that contributed to my success was leaving my hometown. I grew up in Akron, Ohio and went to undergrad a quick drive away at Kent State University. I always knew that I wanted more, I wasn’t certain of what it was but I knew it was not in Ohio. Read more>>

Damon “Doc” Johnson | Music Director, Radio Host, Producer and DJ

I’ve always been obsessed with time. Am I using it properly or wasting it? Do I have enough or too much? It’s been a concept I’ve tried to master my adult life. I recently read Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver Burkeman, and it really put some things in a different perspective.  Read more>>

Kaylee Williams | Family Navigator & Social Media Influencer

Consistency is key to success. By consistently dedicating effort towards personal growth and business development, progress becomes inevitable. Additionally, leveraging available resources, whether it’s support from people or tools, amplifies the path to success. Read more>>

Crystal Rivers | Licensed Massage Therapist & Esthetician

One of the key habits that has contributed to my success is being highly organized and punctual. I believe that maintaining a well-organized schedule and being punctual for appointments not only demonstrates professionalism but also helps to build trust and reliability with my clients. Read more>>

Junrong (Arving) Wu | Motion Graphic Designer

What makes me happy is consistently trying something new. I enjoy the thrill and surprise of experiencing novelty and fresh encounters. Trying new things makes me feel that I am growing and learning. It helps me discover the new angles to my life with unexpected excitements. Read more>> 

Sam Hammond | Photographer

This makes me happy. Putting something into the world that will be here forever. Whether I’m here or gone my art will stay. Capturing people in a moment in time that can never be recreated truly makes me happy. I think it boils down to the team around me that lifts me up and keeps me going. Pushing me to stick with this even when it isn’t working out. Read more>>

Aaliyah Phillips | Miss Atlanta, Educator, Literacy Advocate, Brand Ambassador

While participating in team sports, Aaliyah learned the value of teamwork, leadership, and collaboration in search of reaching a common goal. Aaliyah’s mantra is Ubuntu (Um-boo-too) which means “I am because we are” which fosters her belief that we are all interconnected and one can only grow, progress, and achieve through the growth of their team and peers. Read more>>

Aaliyah Phillips | Miss Atlanta, Educator, Literacy Advocate, Brand Ambassador

While participating in team sports, Aaliyah learned the value of teamwork, leadership, and collaboration in search of reaching a common goal. Aaliyah’s mantra is Ubuntu (Um-boo-too) which means “I am because we are” which fosters her belief that we are all interconnected and one can only grow, progress, and achieve through the growth of their team and peers. Read more>>

B. Russ | Artist & Healing Advocate

That individuals under the care of medical professionals have to “just follow” or “submit” to all treatment suggestions made to them. In my opinion, this suggests that doctors and other service providers are in a position of higher power or superiority due to their education and work experience. Read more>>

Lennox Tatenda Makurumidze | Photographer and Poet

“Bangers only” I don’t believe is the idea of always putting your best art out for people to see. The process of art demands failure in order to build ideas. We are ever growing beings and not everything resonates with everyone. Read more>>

Terrica Walker | Founder of Walker Run Outdoor Excursions

Those outside of the Outdoor Recreation industry may not be aware of the meticulous planning that goes into taking groups on excursions. You must be very detail oriented to ensure that excursionists have safe and enjoyable experiences.  Read more>>

Hyeda Park | Illustrator & Designer

I usually draw moments from my travels or particularly happy moments. I want to design or decorate spaces that create can hold memories rather than souvenirs. Whether it’s an Airbnb, a café, or a restaurant. A space where I can showcase what I’ve drawn and created! It’s a dream I hope to fulfill someday. Read more>>

Elijah Gordon | Director & Producer.

I aspire to direct movies and produce television shows. From a young age, my older brother gave me many lessons. Two of the many lessons I’ll never forget: “1) When you’re very critical of something, pursue it. 2) When any of our family members win, we all win.” These words have guided me toward my path as a director. Read more>>

Dr. Carolyn Strong | Firebrand for the Culture

As I reflect on the legacy I aim to leave behind, it’s deeply rooted in my lifelong dedication to advocacy, education, and equity. I want to be remembered as someone who committed her life, research, and career to illuminating paths for those often left in the shadows of society—especially Black girls. Read more>>

Amber Desantis | Boudoir Photographer

I would like to be known for more than just taking pretty pictures. It is important to me to forge deep connections with each of my clients through emotive imagery and authentic storytelling. By guiding them into tapping into their emotions and embracing vulnerability, we create powerful works of art together. Read more>>

Adrienne Mayfield | Attorney, Speaker, and Author

I want people to remember me as someone who lived boldly and outloud. I desire for people to know me as a pioneer and trailblazer who did not compromise and used her life to represent Jesus and show the world that relevance does not have to exist exclusive of a strong and powerful relationship with God. Read more>>