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.

Marah Aqqad

To me, success isn’t about titles or compensation. It’s about impact at scale. Safer streets, better infrastructure, thoughtful planning that improves quality of life for real people in the community. But what matters just as much is how we lead through those projects: building trust with council and management, strengthening collaboration, and creating an environment where people feel heard and valued. Read More>>

Maggie Sova

“I never give up because my faith reminds me that God is greater than every obstacle. Philippians 4:13 says, ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.’ Like a diamond, pressure does not destroy me—it refines me. I trust God’s process, keep moving forward in faith, and continue shining for His glory.” Read More>>

David Diffen

When I moved to Texas with my family and started Paddco LLC, a fence and metal buildings company, I lost all my savings. I started from zero! no network, no clients, no safety net. There were many dark nights wondering if I should give up. I kept going by asking one simple question: Is giving up the only way to guarantee I fail? Read More>>

Jill Mueller

As a parent, I think one of the most important things I’ve done is show my children that it’s never too late to grow, take risks, and build something you truly love. Read More>>

Jayashree Krishnan

What started as simple arts and crafts activities at home gradually grew into a true passion, supported and encouraged by my family and friends. Their motivation gave me the confidence to take my creativity more seriously and shape it into a meaningful career. For me, art is a powerful form of self-expression. Read More>>

Mason Dies

I really just cannot imagine myself doing anything else. I feel alive whenever I am being creative. Whether that is through me creating wedding films or releasing music, I really cannot see myself doing anything other than being creative. Read More>>

Phillip Halff II

Originally, there was no balance. I gave everything to the craft. But becoming a husband and father changed my perspective and made me realize there’s more to life than work alone. It’s still a constant balancing act, and I’m continuing to learn what healthy boundaries look like. Read More>>

Yolanda Pitre, RN, BSN

Pitre Housing was created to provide safe, stable, and truly person-centered living spaces for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. What sets us apart is that our services are built from both a clinical and human perspective. As a Registered Nurse, I understand the importance of medical oversight, safety, and compliance, Read More>>