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.

Dr. Stephanie Lett | Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker

The most important factor behind my success is my willingness to be led by God. I’m honored to be a vessel he entrusts to serve others. My faith in him allows me to execute whatever vision he gives me, no matter how big or small. My career is not just a tool to earn a livelihood, but it is my purpose and passion. Read more>>

Rochelle Manalili | Artist & Founder of RM Customs Sydney

I attribute all of my success to my community and family. Where I am now, is only because of them. I had stopped painting or making much art after my high school years, and never really had the drive to pursue it. Then one day, my boyfriend had seen a custom shoe on Facebook, tagged me in it, and begged me to paint him one. He was so desperate it wasn’t until he brought a paint and brush set from Angelus, and a fresh pair of Air Force 1s before me that I reluctantly agreed. Read more>>

Kennedy Scales | Kennedy Scales| Hampton University Journalism Student/ Talk Show Host

The most important factor behind my success is making sure that everyone I come in contact with feels that I am an easy person to talk to and that I care. Ever since I started my own talk show on YouTube, it’s made me realize more and more why I have such a passion for journalism. As a journalist/talk show host, it’s vital that I make my guest feel comfortable and open to sharing their life experiences. Read more>>

Morgan Norris | Journalist

I think the most important factor behind the success of my brand is a dual concept. For starters, I don’t have one! By saying I don’t have one, I am referring to the unnecessary urge everyone has to create a “brand.” I am not afraid of basing my career off of myself rather than my craft. I am Morgan the journalist who represented Hampton University at the White House, Morgan the secretary with the Freddye T. Read more>>

Porterstoutbeergod | Multicultural Sherpa

I think the most important factor behind any successful business is relationships. People do business with people who they like, and I have really been focusing in 2023 on building relationships. In life is not about what you know it’s about who you know, and that is especially true in Atlanta. Read more>>

Kenita Smith | Nonprofit Consultant, President & CEO of H.O.P.E, Inc, Minister, Wife, & Mother

I think what makes any brand stand out is your story and your “why”, the reason behind what you do. I started “Starting My Nonprofit” to help others figure out how to start and build a nonprofit from the ground up. Yes, there’s a lot of information on Google, and best practices for small, medium, and large nonprofits, but what my story offers is how I built my nonprofit organization with no nonprofit experience, money, donors, or grants. Read more>>

LaCresha Cunningham, LCSW | Perinatal Mental Health Therapist/Mommy Mentor/Authenticity Coach

The most significant factor behind my success is spiritual alignment. When I’m aligned with God, I’m at peace. I feel joy in what I do. I understand that even in times of contrast, everything is aligned and will even out just as it should. My thoughts and actions are rooted in my purpose path, which helps me stay in the space of gratitude. Gratitude opens up new outlets every time. Read more>>

Timeka Williams | Owner and Lead Instructor at Attentive Safety

At Attentive Safety, the most important factor behind our success is our unwavering commitment to quality and excellence. We firmly believe that providing top-notch training and services is crucial in ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals and communities. Read more>>

Jessica Jaikal” Brooks | Jessica “Jaikal” Brooks I Photographer “

I believe that passion and dedication are the most important factors behind the success of Jaikal Photography, as my commitment to constantly improving my photography skills and having a genuine love for the art form has allowed me to unlock creativity and achieve remarkable results. This is further highlighted by my proactive approach to learning, experimentation, and embracing new styles of light setup. Read more>>

Demetrius Purvis II | 12 year old Author and Multi Sport Athlete

Motivation, Consistency, and Hard Work has been the most important factor of my success. With the help of my parents motivating me, I overcame challenges by staying focused, motivated and working hard.. Read more>>

$WVNK GAWDESS | Recording Artist & Muse

My art puts me in position to showcase my spirit. The connections I make with others through my pursuit is the most important part of my work. Read more>>

Todd Harbinger | American Comic Book/Science Fiction Writer, Artist and Ebook Publisher

I think the most important factor behind our success is really listening to our fans and readers. We’ve been at this a long time, since 2006. Whether at comic conventions, book signings, or social media interaction, the fans are not shy about what they like. Mostly, they share how they like the wide range of characters, spread across multiple times in history, with some of the most unique superpowers. They also like how our stories reflect current challenges in society, while reflecting diverse and more inclusive perspectives. Read more>>

Savannah Hunter Ashbey | Manager of family salon

The most important factor behind the success of family salon is our value in customer service. We go above and beyond to cater to every need each client. We are known throughout the entire community by how we treat our clients like our own family. Read more>>

Tashika Clanton | Owner & Master Event Engineer

Affairs by T’monet offers the convenience of many vendors within one company. We can virtually find a way to do it all. We offer event design, full service coordination, wedding planning, custom silk florals to fit your budget and theme, slumber and spa parties, décor rentals, and full installation set up and tear down. Our goal is to help you achieve unforgettable affairs with every budget in mind. You can choose to hire us to consult or to bring your ideas to fruition: Whatever your need we are here to help! Read more>>

Jon Harewood | Award Winning Pitmaster

We are a family owned Afro-Latino American business so it is very important to us that we create an atmosphere that is welcoming and diverse, as well as our menu. We ensure that our BBQ is flavorful, well prepared and consistent in taste. We are not afraid to experiment with different smoking techniques and flavors to develop a unique experience and a memorable taste. Read more>>