We were fortunate to catch up with some brilliant artists, creatives and entrepreneurs from throughout the Houston area and they share the wisdom with us below.

Thomas Gonzalez | Hairstylist

A mentor of mine once told me to always “Do the right thing for the right reason.” That phrase has always resonated very strongly in me and once I started to apply it to my work ethic everything changed. Read more>>

Çağdaş İnci | Visual Communication Designer

I think the design process, just like a hiking route, starts with the intention of reaching a specific goal. But the path to this goal is not always straight; sometimes the path narrows, sometimes a hill suddenly appears and tests your strength. Just as the landscapes along the way provide breathtaking inspiration as I climb to the summit, each design I make brings me a new discovery and perspective with every step. Read more>>

Bianca Cerrato | Author & Founder of Libritos for the Heart

My business idea was one that God put in my heart. I know this because it happened when I was pregnant with my first baby and I was looking for bilingual bible books and I didn’t find any. I was anxious to start buying things for my baby and thought books would be perfect. I had already found cute baby books but I really wanted bilingual books so that I can teach my baby both English and Spanish. Read more>>

Destiny Dejesus | Founder of Texas Eats Green

Texas Eats Green creates a positive social impact by promoting access to healthy, plant-based options in restaurants within BIPOC communities. We work directly with local businesses to incorporate plant-based dishes, which helps address food deserts and provides healthier alternatives in underserved areas. By doing this, we empower communities of color to make more sustainable food choices, reduce the prevalence of diet-related illnesses, and contribute to the overall well-being of both people and the planet. Read more>>

Steve Kugler | Vice President Business Development

US Aviation Academy contributes positively to the community and the world in several ways through education, employment opportunities, and global outreach. Here are some of the key areas of impact: Read more>>

Anniya Long | Stylist/Braider

The most important factor behind my success in my business that I started knowing nothing 😂 . I went to cosmetology school for 13 months , I learned soooo much while in school but the craft I’m pursing today. Yes they taught us the basics of braiding BUT I wanted to know more . I started from the very bottom and have found a true passion for braiding . So every head I touch I make it a PRIORITY to put my all into that style . Look at where I came from and today , my most important factor is to make sure my clients are happy and feel themselves after leaving my chair. Read more>>

Aprilmay | Professional dancer and Burlesque artist

I have always been interested in practices that add to my toolbox as a burlesque performer. The desire to develop new abilities complementing what I already had under my belt is what allowed me to attain a high level of skill in many art forms that most people can only achieve in one. The right amount of curiosity humbled me to continue learning through mastery, and gradually revealed my talent in each discipline I took on. Read more>>

Rayvin Miller | Basketball skill development trainer

The principle that matters most to me is growth through perseverance. I believe that consistently pushing through challenges, learning from setbacks, and staying committed to improvement is the key to personal and professional success. This principle shapes my approach to work, relationships, and self-development because I see every obstacle as an opportunity to grow stronger and more resilient. Read more>>

Amy Messer | Real Estate Agent

People often think being a realtor is just about showing homes, but it’s so much more. Having a license doesn’t make you an expert overnight. My experience and relationships in the industry play a huge role in navigating everything from complex negotiations to last-minute issues to intricate neighborhood data. It’s definitely more than saying, ‘Here’s the kitchen.’ Read more>>

Keisha Tucker | Repurpose Fashion Designer and Natural Hair Stylist

The end goal for me is Time and Financial Freedom!!! I want to be a saut after Repurpose Fashion Designer.The one that is known for helping to build confidence and style through fashion. Read more>>

Melvin Bulock Jr | DFW Photographer | Videographer

Here’s a powerful and authentic response: “The most difficult decision I’ve ever had to make was walking away from a six-figure job, stepping into the unknown without a safety net. It was terrifying not knowing what lay ahead, but I trusted my vision and knew deep down that playing it safe wasn’t my path. That leap of faith has led to challenges, growth, and opportunities I never imagined possible. Sometimes the toughest decisions are the ones that truly set you free.” Read more>>

Will Baffle | Magician & Illusionist, also the “King of Kid Shows”

To be rich and famous. Just kidding! I have always enjoyed doing something that was considered “out of the box” for work. I enjoy having fun on stage and through circumstances ideas will flow to create new ideas for future shows. Read more>>