Through our work we have had the good fortune of seeing firsthand how success comes in every shape, size, color, faith, and orientation. More importantly we’ve learned that success is often the result of people embracing their unique backgrounds and so we’ve asked the community to tell us about their background and how it has impacted where they are today.

Janica Terrell | Albinism Advocate

I’m southern Texas girl—born and raised—and my upbringing/background impacted who I am greatly because I was raised on faith. I know that’s something that is a bit cliche nowadays, but when you look at my life and where I’ve come from you’ll see that faith is so much more than a hashtag or conversational peace—it’s a way of life that literally challenges the seen versus the unseen. Growing up, I was born with a rare genetic condition called albinism (I am one of two sisters in my family with this condition) and I was born in poverty. Despite this, my parents worked hard to raise us in an environment that promoted “I can” instead of “I can’t.” Read more>>

Anthony White | The Entertainer

I am from Indianapolis, Indiana. I was born and raised there. I was raised in the hood called “Haughville” i lived there till i was in the 5th grade, and my mother moved my brothers and I to a more positive environment, due to her wanting the best for her boys. Coming from Haughville taught me to never give up on a dream just because of your background. To me, its all about how your parents raised you. I’ll never give up on my music, acting, and modeling careers as long as Im alive. I stand 10 toes down that i’ll get in the industry with the blessings from God. Read more>>

Cameron Prince | Photographer

I am from Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Since birth, I lived with both of my parents and older brother. My household upbringing was God, Family and Education. I have always been an outgoing and adventurous person. My childhood started with a passion for percussion, football games and music. At the age of 7, my life change tremendously. My dream was too to play competitive sports in football and baseball. Being told at the age of 7 years old that I could not participate in sports due to a severe heart disease seemed like my worse day. Imagine a carefree and high spirited kid, being told he has to receive a defibrillator. The worse day turned into MY BEST DAYS! My set back was all apart of a set up! Despite my life circumstances, my FAITH in GOD has blessed me at the age of 16 to become a successful entrepreneur and owned my business, C Prince Photography. Read more>>

Hollie Lytle | Booking and Owner of performance venue, Canopy + the Roots

My parents are immigrants, so I learned perseverance through hardship, to keep my eyes up, my heart open to adventure, and to use resources wisely. Also, having “alien” upbringing gives one a greater sense of the need for global community and diversity. These represent the fiber of my soul store. Read more>>