We love asking the folks that inspire and excite us about what inspires and excites them. Check out their responses below.

Joi Britt | Therapist and Podcast Host

I am inspired by people’s journeys and stories. Honestly my own truly inspires me! I think back to all the hurdles I have encountered and I am truly proud of myself and the space I am currently in. When I was 13 my mother was diagnosed with a chronic illness called Scleroderma. Four days after my 25th birthday my father unexpectedly died. Less than 2 years after that my mother died. I graduated with my MSW in 2012 while still grieving and trying to figure out how to do life without my parents. I ended an unhealthy relationship right after and met the love of my life in 2014. Read more>>

Mahlon West | First-generation college student

The meaning behind Basement Boy is to embrace life’s lowest points because it is ultimately what we go through that molds us into the person we become. I want to create clothing that will inspire youth around the world to follow their dreams no matter what. Despite the hardships we all will face in life, Basement Boy reminds us that we shouldn’t quit but
rather embrace the challenge to build up great character. Read more>>

Carmella Alexander | Special needs Bus Driver

I am mostly inspired by the special needs community. I wrote a children’s story book about my disabled son Amir. He has inspired me to reach and build confidence in myself that I didn’t know that I had. I am inspired by his will to continue to survive eventhough doctors put a time stamp on his life. Being the parent of a disabled child is obviously difficult especially when your child is totally dependent on you for daily care. The shoes are too big to fill especially as a first-time parent with a special baby. What was I supposed to do? Read more>>