Through our work we have been constantly amazed at the incredible things people in every neighborhood are working on. What’s even more exciting is that they all have different stories, backgrounds, strengths and weaknesses. That there isn’t a single formula for success means that everyone can take their unique set of strengths and characteristics and turn it into a success story. We recently reached out to some folks we admire and asked them what characteristics they feel are responsible for their success.

Hunter Callahan | Singer-Songwriter, Musician, & Storyteller

This is a fascinating question to me. It’s almost like a moving target. For me, it all comes down to how do you define success? The interesting part, though, is that that answer doesn’t always stay the same. What you considered to be successful 10 years, might be complete different than now. There was a time when I thought being a “successful” musician meant I was. a rockstar and was on the cover of Rolling Stone. Read more>>

Donovan E.C. Bethea | Student, Advocate, Community Leader

Faith. I believe that all things take a process of believing in yourself before they can become fruitful. Everything requires a foundation and requires a team of support and all of these things to make it work but before any of that can truly become functional I think that you have to believe in yourself and believe in your product enough to where others don’t have to question it they just know off your faith. Read more>>

Billie Essco | Contemporary Artist

Staying authentic to the inner self/voice and pursuing spiritual and mental growth through the development and execution of my art. More importantly than anything physical, I believe the highest form of success is to be fully one with self and I believe the pursuit of that bears fruitful milestones. Strive for greatness in self and everything around you will begin to get greater. Read more>>

Debbie Onyibe | Brand Genie & Serial Entrepreneur

If I were to accredit my success to hard work, perseverance, and diligence, I would be telling a partial truth. My success is solely a result of my relationship and encounter with Jesus Christ. He is the driving force behind my life and the projects I create, without him I would be nothing. He is my number one supporter, cheerleader, and best friend. I begin all my projects by praying, and without fail, I receive clear directions on what to do. He is the factor behind my success. Read more>>

Cassandra LeClair | Communication Consultant. Author. Professor.

Authenticity. Showing up as yourself is hard work. We hear the word floating around as though it is something we should all know how to do with ease. However, communicating from a place of your personal power and standing in your beliefs can be difficult. We have to unlearn many of our ways of doing and work to understand what makes us feel seen, heard, and valued. Read more>>

Erica & Angelika Geter & Andrews | Event Coordinators & Designers

The success of our brand derives from taking a person’s event and making it into a unforgettable memory. We are determined, creative and always willing to go the extra mile for our client. Every moment count and we don’t take moments for granted. We take each event personal and we love our clients. Read more>>

Jitinder Chhokar | Owner of Where’s the Scoop?

The most important factor behind my success is my determination. Without my determination, I couldn’t have done anything. My goal is to take my business to the next level which is to introduce new ice creams flavors. It is important to have the drive and motivation because that’s what helps me to deal with extremely long days with no breaks and no days off. Read more>>

Carrie Cosby | Celebrity MUA

The most important factor behind my success is simply “Unity” because my main goal is to build a safe space for creatives to come together in peace along with harmony. And why not do that in a fashionable way?! Read more>>

Donna Bradley | Business Woman/ Realtor/ Interior Design

This is such a funny question for me because I really don’t view myself as successful. Yet, I’ve done things that I believe warrant the word. Being a business woman/realtor, I’m ever learning, and trying to teach others. I truly understand my assignment to help. I don’t believe you’re successful until someone else can feed themselves after you’ve left the kitchen. Read more>>

Calvary De’Rosa Sampson, LPC | Teen & Millennial Therapist

I think the most important factor behind my brand is authenticity and empathy. As a Licensed Professional Counselor I specialize in helping adolescents and young adults through transitions and phases of life. My life-changing experiences including; my parents’ divorce, Katrina, and college have allowed me the ability to connect with people from the heart and lived experiences, Read more>>

Malika Smith Mary Bradley | Licensed General Contractor & Residential Real Estate Developers

We are both highly ethical people with strong moral compasses. For Moxlin to truly be a success, our work and our brand must reflect our values as well as generate profit. We do not take shortcuts and take great pride in the quality of our construction. The objective is to not simply to enrich our own lives, but to enrich the lives of others and to contribute in a positive and meaningful way to our community. Read more>>

Kia El Bey | Moorish Inspirational Rockstar

I have been in business a long time; although I switch between industries I always notice that consistency, knowledge and focus are so important. We always shy away if we don’t have immediate success but it takes time to sow and cater to your vision! Read more>>