Even if you are from the same neighborhood as someone else, you might still be coming from different places. Where you are from is a complicated question and it elicits complicated, but interesting and thought-provoking responses. We’ve shared some of those responses below.

Renea Jones-Hudson | Empowerment Coach for Transitioning Military and Veteran Women

I’m thankful for my upbringing. It’s like having a unique lens to see the world. I learned a lot (especially as I have gotten older) about appreciating the little things, staying grounded, understanding what it means to do right, and being kind. My appreciation and understanding of life are better (the good, the bad, the ugly of it) because of my upbringing. It’s my compass in life, helping me navigate through using all those lessons I’ve picked up along the way. Read more>>

Bianca Hassell | Singer/Song writer , Actress & Model

I am born and raised in the Bronx, NY. I feel like growing up here has molded me into being not only a strong individual but also be able to adapt to many situations. In New York City I feel you gain thick skin regardless just growing up with all busyness, the activity , the diversity , the inflation and just the gritty yet beautiful environment in general. This has impacted me to be able to do anything I set my mind to because I am strong, can adapt , and have thick skin. Growing up also gives you that extra “Umph” to be the go getter that I am to conquer goals I acquire for myself. Read more>>

Asia Sutherland | Live Event Producer

I was born in Brooklyn, NY and raised in Durham, North Carolina. I always say I have a good mix of the North & South because there’s always a little bit of grit, hustle and assertion in my voice, however I love to display Southern Hospitality and taking care of people. Kindness, simple things and grace go a long way – especially in todays society. Read more>>

Shawn Ward | CEO and founder of Red Cup Conversations

I’m from Chicago born and raised growing up in Chicago during the 80s 90s taught me how to speak my mind say what I mean and mean what I say being a voice for my culture and generation is highly contributed to the environment of growing up on the south side of Chicago Read more>>

Jakecia White | Business Owner/ Master Braider/Mobile Lab Specialist

I’m from Whiteville, NC but grew up there and Little River/Brooksville/Longs/North Myrtle Beach,SC. Both of my grandparents were entrepreneurs my grandfather Ed Davis sold cars owned two car lots, a tire shop, sold moonshine, had a club and more. My grandmother Louise Davis had multiple rental properties from going back to lumberton, NC to where she and my grandfather lived. And she the neighborhood candy lady. Growing up already them as a child I watched them work for themselves. I can say that it’s in my DNA from a child just a different path. By me being raised in that time with them. It showed me that whatever I put my mind to I can do it, keep God first and in everything you do, always do people right, and even if things go left you don’t have to go left with the different people. Read more>>

Jhenelle Creighton | A Firm Believer in Jesus Christ/ Floral Designer & Entrepreneur

My background & upbringing impacted me to always dream big and to always believe that whatever I put my mind to I can accomplish it. Even though I was raised in the “ghetto” I believed that my environment didn’t define who I am. I took all the hardships and difficulties and used it to create opportunities that will positively impact the trajectory of my life. Read more>>

Yalan Wen | Visual & New Media Artist

I’ve always been inspired by the environment around me. Not only was I influenced by my artistic father, but also by growing up surrounded by nature and observing it from a different perspective. I have found that nature itself poses infinite questions and provides answers. Nature is something that we all have experienced in common, and it motivates me to create something that people can relate to. Creating a feeling that touches people’s hearts is something that I hope to achieve in my artwork. Read more>>

Justice Bell | Upcoming Graphic Designer

I am from a suburban town in Georgia named Duluth. Growing up, I was focused primarily on my academics and prioritized achieving great grades in high school. I was involved with AP classes, Dual Enrollment courses, a Gifted Internship and much more, but I was always focused on school. Once I left home for college, I started to expand beyond my academic potential and got involved in many other ways. I joined many on-campus organizations, started to volunteer in my community, and explored my creative side. I was willing to try just about anything to learn who I truly was and in that journey, I picked up Graphic Design. My mentor, Niave Collins, is single-handedly the one that inspired me to take Graphic Design serious and helped me explore my creative side. I started out doing graphics on my free time, then I gained a job at my campus’ local radio station, WOLFRadio. I started my business, JustDesign, shortly after and started freelancing wherever and however I could. From a small suburban girl to a graphic designer, I have learned so much about myself and continue to expand in graphics and much more. Read more>>

Stephanie Mckenzie | Beauty Business Coach & Strategist

Started from the bottom and now I’m here is the first thing that comes to mind when I think about my life. I’m originally from Brooklyn, NY and I know the true definition of “struggle”. Read more>>

Germaine Cato | Master Herpetologist & Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator

Hello I am from Atlanta, GA and growing up I did not know anyone that was involved in anything dealing with exotic animals. It was always said go to school so that you can get a good job! No one ever asked me what do you want to do with this passion that you have for animals. So this is why I am so passionate about sharing what I love and do with anyone that will listen. Read more>>