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.

Kyle Moon | CNA School Owner & IT Professional

I was born and raised on a large plot of family land in Loganville, Georgia. Growing up, my most significant mentors were my parents and their drive and determination not only for their family but also for their work. My father was an entrepreneur himself, and my Mother served the community in a healthcare position. At a young age, being a leader sparked my interest, and nothing was going to stop me. Read more>>

Steven Mommaerts | Sailor, Athlete, & Photographer

My parents were both in the Military and though I was born in California, only spending four years there, I usually say I grew up in Japan. I ended up living there for fifteen years altogether, before coming back to America in 2014. Having different perspectives from throughout the world allowed me to be more patient and accepting of others’ points of view. The culture overseas is a little less about yourself and more about helping others or a company that you work for. Read more>>

Lianne Mcconnell | Lead Singer & A Whole Vibe

I was born and raised in the boogie down Bronx. It is really a concrete jungle out there. Growing up I was definitely the odd one out in anything that was going on. I never meshed with anyone, got bullied a lot. My mom was super strict and I was in a bubble from the outside world. Read more>>

Taylor Jones | Outdoor Enthusiast and Travel Blogger

Contrary to most people in the outdoor space, I didn’t grow up loving the outdoors. I was actually pretty wary of being outdoors. At the time, outdoors meant dirt and bugs, and I was not a fan. Being from Stone Mountain, you didn’t see many people who looked like me hiking, fishing, camping, etc. What I did always have was a passion for traveling. As a teenager, my mom always encouraged me to explore new places by traveling solo or with groups growing up. Through travel, I learned to love and appreciate the outdoors. Read more>>

Eric Poland | Artist

I was born in Germany on an ARMY base, and our family moved to a new location every 3 years. I was able to see a lot of art and architecture at such a young age, that it really inspired me to become a visual artist. Read more>>

Shanise Woods | Fashion Accessories Business Owner

I was born and raised in Plainfield, NJ. I am an only child to a wonderful single mother, Brenda. Growing up my mother worked hard to give me things and experiences that she never had as a child. My mother always taught me the importance of being a honest, hardworking person. So at 16yrs old I had my first retail job. Read more>>

Jonaya Johnson | Salon Owner and Hairstylist

I was born and raised in Muskegon, Michigan by both my parents, along with my younger brother. I was raised in love and always taught that in order to get anywhere in life, I needed to work hard and remember that nothing comes easy. I saw my father work long hours, sometimes even overnight shifts just to provide for his family. He made sure to spend time with us and was present at every event, along with my mom, which was very important to have that support early on. Read more>>