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.

Mandi Masden | Actor and Entrepreneur

Artists of color are often underrepresented in both the puzzle industry and the art world, both of which have extensive histories of exclusionary gate-keeping practices. Puzzles have long excluded Black and Brown faces and creativity, and even contemporary companies have very few puzzles that feature people of color. In the art world, a similar landscape of exclusion leaves artists of color struggling for space and recognition. Read more>> 

Irene Bailey | Business Consultant and Builder of a Lifestyle Brand

The most important thing I believe I have done as a parent is to allow my kids the freedom to make choices on their own. This means they got to own their success, but also their failures. It required working through the hard stuff that life throws at all of us. This has made them courageous and empathetic, and also humble. Because they know what it takes to succeed and also to stumble at times. Read more>>

Skyler Reed | Singer & Vocal Coach

I have recently expanded my business by hiring a team of instructors. Deciding who I will bring on to teach and work out of my studio space has been the most difficult decision I’ve had to make in this expansion season. Read more>>

Daya Lee | 2D Animator and Illustrator

I learnt a lot when collaborating with others, and all these lessons taught me to become a better team member. Being committed to the project, having a dedicated work ethic, the ability to collaborate effectively, and great people skills are essential, and I feel like this can make or break a production. Whenever I’m part of a team, I strive to be the best version of myself so that the project is successful. My motto to ensure that is “Managing Expectations”. Read more>>

Omilade Adediran | Artist, Priest, Engineer & Survivalist

I was born in Hartford, Connecticut but my family moved to Dallas, Texas when I was 3 years old. My mother, from California6t, was active in various Black Liberation movements of the 60’s and 70’s and my father, from Louisiana had a whole other lens on our “experience” here. From as far back as I can remember, it was reiterated that our history did not start in a cotton field; we hailed from greatness. Read more>>

Amazon Godezz | “Behind the Beats: A Candid Q&A with Amazon Godezz on Music, Struggles, and Success”

I pursued a creative career because my father always gifted me instruments and audio engineering software, encouraging me to explore my artistic side. Watching my brother rise as a rapper in Atlanta inspired me further, showing me the power of music and support from family. Read more>>

Jesse Cannon-wallace | Sales Consultant – Mercedes-Benz of Atlanta Northeast

As a Sales Consultant at Mercedes-Benz of Atlanta Northeast, my job description doesn’t necessarily sound creative. However, sales does require creativity and problem solving to make sure I pair the right client with the right vehicle! I am also able to use my following on social media to highlight fun things about the cars and life in the dealership. Photography and videography have certainly played a role in my success in sales! Read more>>

Lerae Funderburg | Entertainment Attorney & Wellness Practitioner

My approach to work-life balance has evolved significantly over time. In the past, I often found myself striving for a perfect balance, trying to give equal attention to every aspect of my life. But as I grew and especially after becoming a single mother and entrepreneur, I realized that this idea of balance isn’t always practical. Life is dynamic and constantly changing, so expecting everything to be evenly keeled at all times is unrealistic. Read more>>