One of our favorite things to do is to ask the folks we are inspired by what they are inspired by. We’ve shared some of their responses below.

Paula Hermano, M.Ed | Assistant Director, MTEI of Atlanta & The Montessori Mastermind

Experiencing and witnessing growth and positive transformation. It is endless! In all phases of life, there is always a vast potential that may surprise us. Having that trust and believing in innate goodness that one can do something meaningful and impactful. Read more>>

Molly Van Kley | Fashion & Portrait Photographer

I am very inspired by other creatives. I am especially inspired by bold colors, surrealism, and creative storytelling in photography and paintings. Read more>>

ATM Nikko | Musician & CEO of ATMBANDOMEDIA

I am inspired by the environment in which I grew up in. I grew up in northside Chicago. Life was not easy for me and my twin brother, Jimmy. Growing up in a rough area of Chicago was definitely a critical point in my life. Being adopted at 11 months old by an African American family, all while dealing with both sides of racism, molded me to the artist I am today. Read more>>

Isreal Porter | Recording Artist & Producer

I’m inspired by artist like Royce Da 59, Eminem, J Cole, Kendrick Lamar, Jid and Joyner Lucas. Read more>>

Jae-lhin The Kid | Artist/Entrepreneur

I’m mostly inspired by the thought of genuine happiness and what that looks like for myself and for the people I love. I know it’s my duty to reach that happiness because at the end of the day, it’s my life. And only I’m going to live it. And all I and in this life is real love and happiness. Read more>>

Tiana Payne | Event Coordinator & Facilitator

I am inspired by people who pursue their passions despite not knowing how they will reach the destination. It is so encouraging when I see others endure and persevere on that journey from just dreaming to creating goals. Read more>>

Mylee Quach | Hairstylist & Salon Owner @ Hair by Mylee Q

I am inspired simply by people, especially ones that sit in my chair. I am intrigued by what others have to say and offer. You get a sense of who this person is from their background, their careers, their lifestyles and more. I felt that in a traditional salon setting you could not get that one on one time and it felt a bit more tense than it really should be. Read more>>

Gayatri Sethi | Educator & Author

I’m deeply inspired by truth tellers who are radically open or honest about their humanity. This is why I’m drawn to a life of writing creative non-fiction and studying poetry by diasporic South Asians. I find deep wells of inspiration while reading Black feminists and global abolitionists: bell hooks, Angela Davis, Alice Walker, Toni Cade Bambara, Assata Shakur, Arundhati Roy, Mariame Kaba (to name a few). Read more>>