Where you grew up and your background can often have surprising effects on our lives and careers. We’ve asked folks from the community to tell us about how their background has affected them.

Rhiannon Rosenbaum | Abstract Artist and Art Curator

I was raised by my Grandparents. My Grandmother was an landscape painter, she put a paint brush in my hand as soon I was capable of holding onto it. My Mother lived with us while I was growing up which was extremely difficult. Read more>>

Otara Nwachie | Entrepreneur & Event Planner

My parents come from Sri-Lanka. I was born Dallas Tx. My parents were given in arranged marriage that did not end up working out. A few months after I was born my mom took me and left to Sri-Lanka. Being raised in south east Asia young girls aren’t given the opportunity to learn or explore their independence. Read more>>

Chelsea Nelson | Builder and Designer

From the Texas Hill Country where I grew up fascinated with the use of local materials used in construction and design. As I traveled and saw how each locality has its own materials and styles. At that point I wanted to add my creativity and build functional art you can live and work in. Read more>>

Britney Cooks | Ginger Me Events LLC Owner | Matchmaker | Date Coach

I am from Houston, Texas. I grew up with my mother and older siblings. My mother was an educator and always echoed the benefit of getting an education. Her motto was: “Do something productive!” Read more>>