There are so many factors that affect how our lives turn out, but one of the most interesting is how our backgrounds give us unique strengths and perspectives that affect who we are as adults. We asked rising stars from the community to tell us about their background and upbringing and how they feel it’s impacted who they are today.

DREW $AVAGE | Recording Artist & Songwriter

Hello everyone! I am from Arlington, Texas, but if you’re from Texas you know the DFW really stands together. I was born in Fort Worth, and Southern Methodist University (SMU) is one of my Alma Maters, so I feel connected to my entire metroplex! My immediate family is very close, and we all live within 15 minutes of each other so spending time together is always a priority. That really influenced my core values and makes me appreciate the love and happiness that comes from me being an artist that much more! We always find ways to support each other, so I carry that with me in each relationship/friendship that I have. Read more>>

Almetress | Singer – Songwriter

I am born and raised in Forest Hill, TX. I was surrounded by loving people and a community that truly cared about their youth. I was raised in a Black and Hispanic community, so I steadily crave authentic Mexican/Latin cuisine more than soul food at time, lol. My upbringing has contributed to my views of how I see my daily surrounding, such as an homeless person on the street. I don’t see them as homeless, but I see them as a person who fell but is trying there best to get back up again. Read more>>

Veronica Still | Expansion Director & Financial Coach

I grew up in Oak cliff, Dallas. I come from a family of seven, two brothers and two sisters. Life was difficult for us having two immigrant parents. We needed assistance and used food stamps along with Medicaid for some time. By the time I was attending Highschool my parents had divorced. Despite the hardships, my father played a huge role in my life as well as my siblings upbringing. He taught us to be strong, disciplined, fearless, and to always be our own boss. His perseverance serves me as an example to live by daily. Read more>>

Tomas Keenan | Author & Fractional COO

Growing up on Long Island, NY, in a middle-class family with a single mother profoundly impacted who I am today. My mother’s dedication to her career instilled in me a strong work ethic, and my summers spent working alongside my uncles taught me the values of perseverance and determination. Overall, my upbringing shaped me into a hard-working individual with strong family values. I am grateful for the opportunities that were given to me and the lessons I learned through my childhood experiences. Read more>>