We asked some of the most creative folks we know to open up to us about why they chose a creative career path. Check out their responses below.

Dr. Alex Okoroji | Actress, Media Personality, Creative Consultant & Founder, The BRAG Media Company

Being an artist is a significant part of my DNA. I’m the daughter of two creatives. I was born into an artistic family. My father is a musician and my mother is a fashion designer. I grew up in a household surrounded by lots of books, a diverse collection of music, fashion catalogues, magazines, and movies. So yes, art has always been a part of my life. I grew up seeing different forms of expression; I grew up seeing how people used all these different mediums to communicate their beliefs, personal experiences, or perspective of things happening in society. Read more>>

Jakeelah | Singer/Songwriter

I got the initial push to pursue music professionally from a group of friends. They believed in me when I didn’t necessarily believe in myself and I stepped out on faith and made the jump. I have always loved music… everything from the production to the lyrics and the story a song tells. No matter what you’re going through, there’s a song for it. It’s my lifeline and to be on the actual creative side of it versus the consumer side these days is incredible to me. Read more>>

Ken Orman | Actor, Writer, Producer

I think I was also meant to be an artist. I just didn’t know it. I allowed culture to steer me into a safe, predictable career. I worked in finance for 29 years with limited fulfillment. My daughter connected me back to my artistic interests when she was little. Over time, I began to see a path of leaving the “safe” life behind and the ability and courage to leap into the life of an actor, writer, producer. There are moments of., “What am I doing?” But, truthfully I’ve never had more uncertainty but I’ve also never been happier. Read more>>

Brandi Gant | Creative Director, Social Media Manager, Model

My favorite term I live by is “Created to Create”, I have always felt in my heart I was supposed to be in the creative field. As a child, I was involved in dance/theater, sketched my own fashion designs, and went to art galleries in Miami’s Wynwood area. I even attended an art school for a period of time to pursue photography. It’s a passion of mine that has only grown stronger as I got older. Read more>>

Ashley & Cory Rhodes | Owners of Liberation Drip (a custom press and printing company)

Hi Ashley & Cory, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally? We wanted to be able to leave a legacy behind for our children while sharing our artistic talents with the world. Sharing the beauty of our culture throughout our products is also another reason we chose a creative path professionally. Art has always been a huge influence in our lives starting in our childhoods. We saw it everyday with music, photos, dancing, drawing, fashion, poetry and painting. (Ashley) My Uncles and dad were great at painting and drawing and I followed and I also took to poetry. Read more>>

Captain Moon and the Silver Spoons | Cosmic Rock Band

Before arriving on Earth, we came up in the harsh environment of Mars. Having very little air on the planet made it difficult to propagate sound waves, so we planted a number of apple trees to increase the oxygen. Delighted with the results, we pursued our newfound ability to create sounds. Enticed by our these sounds, we relocated to Earth, where we may make as much beautiful noise as we desire. Read more>>

Niusha Karkehabadi | Multi-disciplinary performance artist, author, creator, yoga instructor, pleasure activist

Firstly, I think we all use creativity in our everyday lives. Systems and structures utilize creativity to become something in themselves. For any idea to become a reality, it requires some sort of creativity. Nature naturally exemplifies creativity, and we learn about nature in science, in patterns, in spirituality, in history. Creativity builds connection. Read more>>

Brigitt Graves | Owner

My love is for the Seniors who are no longer able to care for themselves, remembering my late sister 1st Lady Glynis Brown showing so much love for the elders at church every Sunday I watched as she come out her office and chat and hug each one that she could, and to see the smile that showed upon their face was priceless and very overwhelming to me. Read more>>

Brenda Rosales | Color Correction, Blonding and Extension Specialist

I knew I wanted to be in the Beauty Industry since middle school. I had a project to do on the career I would like to pursue. I had no idea what that was so I chose Cosmetologist just because I already enjoyed makeup. I learned about all the opportunities under it and how much you can actually help people. As a hairstylist I don’t just do hair. I make a connection with my clients , listen to what they’re wanting and help them achieve just that. Seeing how happy and good they feel after the service is the best part! Read more>>