While it’s inspiring to read high level summaries of success stories, we think it’s just as important to learn about what drove the success and made it possible. We’ve asked some of the brightest folks we know to open up about what they believe was the most important factor behind their success.

Shalom C. Obiago | Actor & Filmmaker

Two things: Drive > motivation & Believing that I am “special”. Drive over motivation is important because this life will throw stones at you emotionally, financially, health-wise, etc. and those will all take a toll on the level of motivation you have. The reality is, most of us rely on motivation to fuel our action; doing things when we “feel” it. And when life dims that fire a bit, you’re left stagnant until it reignites. Drive, however, is an innate urge to attain a goal; a need. That can’t be diminished by the stones of life. Read more>>

Villasenor | Art Teacher, Photographer, and Jiu Jiteira

What I have found to be one of the most important factors behind my sucess is displaying everyone as they are at the grappling events- motivated, passionate, athletic, and loved by their community. Everyone that is particpating in not only these events but the sport itself deserves to be seen and that has been my motivation since day one. It takes everyone involved to support each other in order to grow as a sport and community. Read more>>

Cecilya / Taylor Oliveira / Warren | Co-Founders of P+S Mobile Bar

Creativity. Pour and Savor, also known as P+S Mobile Bar, was born out of a mutual desire to be a part of memorable moments, and to bring imagination into those moments to truly make them more savorable. Success in the mobile bar industry is highly dependent on creativity. Whether it’s innovation with the design and functionality of our mobile bars, or originality with cocktails and service experience, such an invigorating part of owning a mobile bar is that with every client comes a different vision, with every different vision presents opportunities to be creative. Read more>>

Perrie Gooden | The Nurse Spiritualist

The most important factor behind my success is being authentic and true to myself. Five years ago, I started sharing my spiritual journey on social media. This was difficult at first, I was completing nursing school, working on becoming financially stable, and healing from self-judgment. Many of my posts would have affirmations for healing the mind, body, and spirit. My Instagram page became a platform for me to share my truth. I was raw and vulnerable, which resonated with my audience. Read more>>

Raina Josephs | Entrepreneur & Social Media Influencer

It’s never just one thing that leads to success. Yet, when it comes to my success I automatically think about my mother—Patricia Josephs. That may sound cliché but my mother is first mentor and #1 cheerleader. From championships to career, her support made all the difference for me. She was there when I broke athletic records at North Cobb High School and when I went on to crush Sales targets at AT&T. But hands down my mom inspired me the most by supporting me as I became a first-time mom. Just watching her excel as working should-to-shoulder with my dad as serial small business owners motivated me to succeed. Her stellar work ethic made me realize early on that hard work pays off. Read more>>

N.K. Condua | Artist, Educator, & Writer

I think a large part of the success of Adinkra has been my determination to stay true to what I set out to do and the community of people who have supported me along the way. It is really easy to conform to what others are doing, especially when you start to experience increased success along the way, but I have always continued to remind myself that people invest in what Adinkra is today and to conform is to change the product people are investing in. My community of supporters continue to keep me grounded, encourage me, and help me stay focused on the goal of what I wish for my company to become. Read more>>

Coy Flynn | Director of Performance

The most important factor behind our success, without a doubt comes from the amazing people who surround us. Our full-time staff and coaches who’s togetherness makes every day a great experience for anyone who walks into our home, the athletes who passionately train day after day working alongside each other towards their goals, our awesome interns who take initiative and never stop learning, to the families and friends who constantly support us. All these incredible people are the most important factor behind our success; and everyone shares in the success and that’s what makes it special. Read more>>

Paige Alexander | Hoops 4 Breast Cancer, LLC. – Founder ; Urban Advocate; Sports & Entertainment Manager

The most important factor behind my success and the the success of my brand is the impact. My ultimate goal is to have a positive impact on as many lives as I possibly can. Growing up, my Mom would always tell my siblings and I that “service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on Earth.” It’s one of her most valued quotes by the late, great Muhammad Ali. I’d like to say that I’ve adopted those values as well. Read more>>

Jaymes-Mikal (MikeJ) Beasley | Entrepreneur & Photographer

Raw Passion ! Having a raw passion has to be the most important factor behind the success of TireLess. It’ s more than just having a “knack” for something or doing something just because your getting paid to do it . It’s something you would do without any support! Yes , without support (figuratively & physically) , without financial compensation or with support from family , friends & peers alike . Something you can’t see your life without. Identifying and putting that passion not as a “Dream” per say but more of your “Reality“ & making it happen “ TIRELESS”LY is how we identify RawPassion. So out of the CEO’s drive for their raw passion is what I think any successful business, brand , entrepreneurship is built upon . Read more>>

Omari King | CEO and Owner of BOGASKI

The most important factor behind the success of BOGASKI is the meaning. The meaning behind the brand is “Because Only God And Self Kan Influence”. This is something that everyone can relate to. When it comes to this thing we call “Life”, you are in control of your own destiny. There is nothing that you can’t achieve as long as you give it your all. No person or obstacle is too big too conquer as long as you have faith. Read more>>

KungFU Kee | Style Enthusiast

Faith. Faith in God. Faith in my talents. “Faith in these darkskins” lol … Seriously, would have to be faith and trust that I am taken care of. Trust that the Universe wouldn’t dare fumble someone like me. And my future is strategically placed in my favor. The success of my brand will lie solely at the feet of my belief system and the surety I have in my creativity. Read more>>

Dorian Lumpkin | Educational Consultant & Teacher

The most important factor behind the success of my brand is “equity and inclusion for all”. When we think of equity and inclusion some people automatically think of race, especially in 2021. When I think of equity, I take it a step further and think of even playing fields for the advantaged and disadvantaged. I think of the resources available to those who know what they need for their child, and those who don’t know where to turn or who to seek assistance from. Covered Village Educational Services is just that. That safe haven for all families who need educational services which include but not limited to tutoring, educational consulting and other pediatric referrals for their children. They are covered, cared for, and guided with instruction in the way best suited for THEIR learning style and developmental stage…..it truly takes a village. Read more>>

Laura Williams | Vinyl Lollipops, Owner/Interviewer

Metal, rock, and punk bands. These are the genres I interview. Currently I’m pushing 900 interviews since October of 2018. Read more>>

TYESHA WARD | Realtor/Broker (The Serial Entrepreneur)

The absolute most important factor behind my success is my 3 children Tyler, Racquel and RJ. I grind and go hard because if I fail they will feel the results of my failure. Read more>>

Latanya Simpson | Traveling Freelance Makeup Artist

I would have to say the most important factor behind the success of my brand would be consistency. Consistently giving my clients their desired look and delivering the ultimate experience. From the time you book a service with me you get professionalism at the door. New or returning it doesn’t matter, I take pride in being flexible and dependable along with valuing each client specific needs . Face by LCherelle customers typically range from ages as young as 6 years old to women in their mid 50’s. Most of my clientele generally want to still look like themselves but with a few sprinkles of glam. With the use of purchasing a variety of cruelty free products it makes my job much easier. to deliver every time. Read more>>

Dezmond Willis | Founder of Top Rated Speed & Performance Training

Knowing that God was with me every step of the way from the start to where I am at now,bcuz the road to success isn’t easy and some days all I had was God to talk to and he never let go of hand and today he continues to open doors and create opportunities for my brand and success without him it’s no Top Rated Speed & Performance Training,also the facility he blessed me with.I am very appreciative of all the Athletes that train with me they make the brand look good as well without them it’s no me.The Social media grind play a big part to the success you always have to put content out to let people know you are the one to train with.My family support is amazing mom,dad,and brother it all started with them believing in me and me believing in myself. Read more>>

True | Designer

The messages getting across to the people,and them proud to rock the brand. Read more>>

Author Jennifer | Bestselling Author, Founder of Growth Women’s Prayer Ministry & Founder of Growth Women’s Business Networks Magazine

The important factor behind the success of my brand is always to put God first in everything that I do in my life. I believe that you must follow the plans and purpose God have for your life and He will take care of the rest.
I am a woman living and walking in my purpose. Read more>>