Over the past decade we have had the chance to learn about so many incredible folks from a wide range of industries and backgrounds and our highlighter series is designed to give us an opportunity to go deeper into their stories with to goal of understanding them, their thought process, how their values formed and the foundations of their stories. Check out some incredible folks below – many of whom you may have read about already and a few new names as well.
Liesl Walsh
A few months ago I reached a very proud moment in my career as a professional photographer: I walked into the studio of KelbyOne to record my second online class. KelbyOne is a longtime respected online education community for thousands of photographers around the world. Read more>>
Ashley Witt
My greatest teacher has always been my mother. Although she passed away eight years ago, her influence continues to guide every part of my life. I grew up in our family’s business, watching her build a brand strong enough to place our pottery on the shelves of Walmart and Rooms To Go in the 1990s. Read more>>
Rebecca Dawson
Yes, daily. Being an entrepreneur is difficult. I don’t think it’s the hardest thing I have ever done. But it’s definitely not easy. Daily I remind myself to not give up. Giving up is not the answer, but it feels so much easier sometimes. Read more>>
Porcilla “Ziggy” Charlton
Well I think the main lie that the fashion industry tells itself is that Beauty has a standard. WRONG! The industry often pushes the idea that there’s one ideal body type, size, skin tone, or age that defines beauty — when in reality, beauty is diverse and limitless. Campaigns may feature token representation, but true diversity requires systemic change in leadership, casting, sizing, and storytelling. Read more>>
Rebekah Ondejko
As a child, I believed I had to fit in to be accepted. I thought blending in and following the ‘normal’ path was the only way to succeed. As I got older, especially once I became a stylist and a mom I realized that my strength is actually in standing out. Read more>>
Drako Santino
Inspiration: My music draws heavily from horror themes, and & moniker ‘The Black Slim Shady’ alludes to my admiration for rapper Eminem. The music helps me process the trauma and pain from addiction and time in a mental ward. Healing is a daily process that’s takes self care & at times counseling. Read more>>
Lorenzo Shelton
After a long day, creating content is what truly brings me joy. It’s my time to unwind, be creative, and pour into something that feels authentically me. Turning everyday moments into something meaningful never gets old. Read more>>
Sylvia Stanley
The project that is nearest and dearest to me is my GIGIS CHAPEAU CLUB. I started my hat club in June of 2012 with only 5 ladies attending my first luncheon. Originally started to meet and make new friends, it has become a place where my members meet for comradery, stimulating conversations and a place to show off our fashion savviness. Read more>>
Simone Knego
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro fundamentally changed how I see the world and myself. Not because of the summit photo, but because of what happened along the way. There were moments when my body was exhausted, my confidence was shaken, and every doubt I’d carried for years showed up loudly. I couldn’t muscle my way through it or pretend I was fine. Read more>>
Aizhan Oshakbayeva
A moment that really shaped how I see the world was the first time I captured a wedding where the couple’s love felt so raw and unfiltered—laughing, crying, and simply being themselves. Seeing that kind of honesty made me realize how powerful genuine moments are, and how much beauty exists in everyday emotions. Read more>>
Isabella Diaz
Most recently, I’ve found that songs are much easier to write when I’m detailed and unfiltered about my emotions. In times of powerlessness, I turn to my piano. Hearing a finished product helps me regain autonomy. In the past, I’ve adjusted words or simplified themes to make songs more applicable to a general audience. Read more>>
