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.

Simplyy Okimma

One piece of conventional advice that I disagree with is that being the black sheep means you are weird and being a virgin at almost 40 is a weakness that indicates there is something abnormal or wrong with you. Read More>>

Lucky Goldie

The most important thing I’ve done as a parent is give my daughter, Charisma Love, both roots and wings. Roots in love, faith, and purpose—so she grows knowing exactly who she is. And wings, so she can dream bigger than I ever imagined. Since the age of three she’s been signed to State Management here in New York, and now at seven years old she’s blossoming into her own light. Watching her thrive reminds me daily that our little girl is very special, and that as parents—fathers especially—we must go above and beyond to raise balanced children who walk with confidence. My role is to break each generational curse with excellence, so her path is paved with freedom, creativity, and legacy. Read More>>

Cassandra Broome

I am inspired by the potency of human creativity and the boundless curiosity that propels individuals to acquire knowledge, embark on explorations, and forge connections. The capacity of narratives, artistic expressions, and concepts to transcend cultural boundaries and span generations captivates me. Furthermore, I am inspired by the indomitable resilience exhibited by individuals in the face of adversity, their unwavering adaptability and continuous growth. It is this dynamic spirit that fuels my responses and sustains my eagerness to contribute in creative ways. Read More>>

Erykah Robinson

I am deeply inspired by the resilience, authenticity, and beauty of Black women and women of color who continue to redefine what it means to show up boldly in a world that often overlooks them. My inspiration comes from the stories of women who have embraced their truth, celebrated their individuality, and turned pain into purpose. Ebony Gaze was born from that same spirit, creating a space where beauty is not about perfection, but about self-discovery, healing, and empowerment. Read More>>

Dr. Shawana Carter-Barnett

The most important factor behind my success has been purpose. Every business I’ve built, whether it’s Pretty Girls CuppieCakes, my Naughty for Nyce trilogy, or Carter Business Associates, was born out of a genuine passion and a desire to create something that makes an impact. My academic background gave me the discipline and knowledge, but my family is truly my driving force. My three children, Shanaiya, Alonzo, and Carter, are my daily inspiration.  Read More>>

Landon Jenkins

I wasn’t fitting into the animation industry pipeline. My first love is character design (a very competitive field), but I also do motion graphics, 2D animation, game development, electronic music… If my goal was to get hired doing just *one* of those things, my portfolio was too split-up. I simply love too many things. I started my business because I wanted my wide skillset to be an asset rather than a downside. I enjoy working on multiple stages of a project and efficiently seeing one artistic vision through. Read More>>

Rochelle Burdine

“Fake it until you make it.”

Nope. Not for me. I believe we have to be honest and realistic with ourselves first and foremost; if we want to be truly authentic in our lives. Read More>>

Pamela Mackie Mackie

It’s never too late to chase your passion and purpose. Dr. Ellen Langer wisely said, ‘Instead of adding more years to your life, add more life to your years.’ At 55, I made the bold choice to pivot and change careers—and it turned out to be the best decision I could’ve made. Fear of failure once held me back, and for too long, I listened to others’ opinions rather than following my own path. But success isn’t defined by titles or money. It’s about finding joy and fulfillment in the work you do—and that’s what truly makes you rich. Read More>>

Rustin Yasavolian

That life and business have their seasons. Some days are like a beautiful spring afternoon where everything is perfect, some days are consists of thunderstorms, and some days might just be overcast. Its understanding that everything will pass, both the good times and the bad. Slow down and enjoy the good times. Take in the fruits of your labor. Understand that the bad times are not forever. Be thankful for difficult times because it builds strong will. Read More>>

Dr.Kel’li Sherrene Cole,M.S.C,Ph.D.

I’m from West Philadelphia, and I always say if you can make it there, you can survive anywhere. The grind, the resilience, the rawness of the city shaped me early on, but I also came from a lineage of strength—doctors, lawyers, and business owners. That balance gave me both grit and grace. West Philly taught me survival, but my family showed me legacy. Together, that foundation molded me into someone who not only overcomes challenges but also builds doors where none existed. Read More>>

Iddrisu M. Reed

It was all an experiment. I’m primarily a 3D artist who creates concept art. Mid-last year, around July, I created a series of artworks with a singular theme, and I thought that was it, until I decided to explore posters with the artworks. They looked so good as posters, I decided to create mockups of the designs on clothing. After sending it to a few friends, they expressed interest and encouraged me to produce it commercially, so I did. That’s how the business started. Read More>>