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.

Tayler Bryant | President/CEO of Complete Weddings + Events Knoxville

I am originally from a small town named Fremont, Nebraska. I have always been in love with music and the effects it has on people, especially myself. Whenever there was a time, I needed a safe place to be, or I needed to tame the world at the end of the day, nothing beats popping in my headphones, and getting lost in euphoria with whatever music feels right that day. Read more>>

Myles Green | Actor/Filmmaker & Spoken Word Artist

I was born and raised in Northern Virginia. Growing up in the suburbs as an aspiring creative, it was difficult for me to find and connect with others with similar passions. Those challenges made it hard for me to feel comfortable in my own skin.  Read more>>

Nayo Jones | Vocalist – The Nayo Jones Experience

I hail from Chicago, IL, but spent my formative years in Phoenix, Arizona before attending Spelman College in Atlanta, GA. My passion for music was ignited by my father, a musician and educator, who played, saxophone and piano. There was always a plethora of instruments around the house.  Read more>>

Alexis Cee | Art Director | Music Curator

I’m from Jackson, Mississippi, where I learned how to make the most of what I had. Growing up in Jackson taught me to use my imagination and take on roles I didn’t have direct access to.  Read more>>

Montesha Evans | Dually Boarded Family & Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

I was born and raised in Shelby, a small town in North Carolina. I was blessed to be reared by some very courageous, determined, faithful, intelligent, and strong individuals. Read more>>

Erin Johnell Dickey | Actress/Writer /Photographer

I am Erin Johnell Dickey, and I am from a small city called Albany, Georgia. I like to consider myself a “country” girl with big ambitions and dreams. I grew up in the 80s and 90s, and I must admit life has changed since I was a teen. I was raised by my parents along with both sets of grandparents. Read more>>

Hon. Ana Maria Martinez | DeKalb State Court Judge

I am originally from Colombia, South America, but I have lived in Georgia since I was twelve. My experience of coming to this country, having to learn the language and culture, and finding my place in this new home shaped me immensely. Read more>>

DonShae Hurt | PMHNP-S, RN

I am from Dayton, Ohio. My mom was a single parent and I was the middle child. My environment was very dysfunctional yet I always had goals for a better life. I participated in all types of activities growing up from drill team and dance to drama and acting, softball and cheer.  Read more>>

Teriyana “Teriy” Wright | Artist , Student & Friend

I was born in Winston-Salem NC , lived in Walkertown NC and after my mom passed we moved back to my dads home town High point and I have been there for 13 years. All these are rather small places in North Carolina and may families on both my mom and dad’s side ran businesses. Read more>>