The heart of our mission is to find the amazing souls that breathe life into our communities. In the recent weeks, we’ve had the privilege to connect with some incredible artists, creatives, entrepreneurs and rabble rousers and we can’t begin to express how impressed we are with the incredible group below.
Markia McMillian
My photography journey began with a search of what I was truly passionate about. I was at a point where I had no clue of what I wanted to do in life or what career field I wanted to pursue. And I prayed, and I asked God to reveal and show me what my passion was because I had so many things that I was good at doing but I wanted to find something that would be fulfilling for my heart. So after I prayed, my sister ended up buying a camera for her hair business to do marketing and things like that. But she stopped using the camera after having it about 3 months and I started just playing around with it to see how it worked and I was very intrigued. Read More>>
Paul Beets
We specialize in. unique self-storage properties where there is a mix of commercial office / flex space as well as self-storage. This creates a unique diversification of income to help weather difficult economic periods. We prioritize the safety and security of our clients belongings. We invest heavily into security systems and make every effort to monitor and prevent theft and break-ins. We are very proud of this and our tenant insurance vendor assures us that we have some of the lowest claim rates of our peers of similar size. Read More>>
Jay Cervetti
This journey has presented numerous challenges, accompanied by feelings of discouragement and uncertainty. We often questioned whether we would attract members, how we would fund our big ideas, and faced the emotional weight of rejection. However, we always return to our purpose. This concept was entrusted to me by my Heavenly Father, and I find immense comfort in knowing that where He provides vision, He has already made provision. If Howblackgirls can positively impact just one young lady, I truly believe it would create a significant difference in making the world a better place. Read More>>
Bre McGlown
Now, pregnant with our second child, I feel stronger than ever. Thanks to the preparation and consistency I maintained over the past year and a half, I’m still working out twice a day. My goal was to build stamina and stay active throughout this pregnancy, and so far, I’ve been successful. More than anything, I believe in leading by example—showcasing a commitment to health and discipline for my family to look up to and be inspired by. Read More>>
Morgan Smith
I worked in a suite for about 8 years of my career never fully felt satisfied. On my 9th year as a suite renter I decided this isn’t for me anymore let me try a traditional open floor salon. Which landed me at Salon De Coupe in Bartlett Tn. I would have to say it’s the best thing I’ve done for my career. I love the community of an open floor setting and still being able to give my clients a personable experience. Hair is my passion and I strive to continue to do my best with every head I touch. Read More>>
Lesley Scullark and Robert Harris Jr
Shelby Metro Youth Organization proudly serves as the parent organization for the Southwind Jaguars Youth. Through our collaborative efforts, we are dedicated to nurturing young athletes and performers, providing them with the resources and support they need to excel both in sports and the arts. The Southwind Jaguars Youth Organization was founded over ten years ago in partnership with Shelby Youth Sports, the premier youth sports league in the Mid-South since 1967. Read More>>
Peter And Jo Cavitch
A creative to the core, Jo joined a band and her old bandmate encouraged her to make money for the band. Jo reached out to her two friends who were photographers letting them know if they needed a second shooter she’d loved to help them. She fell in love with the art of photography and Jo Darling was born in July 2016 and would a year and a half later be a space that Peter would join. A two on the Enneagram, Jo lives to host, serve, love on and support people. Peter, an empath who loves to uplift and put at ease, relishes any opportunity to do good work and make people feel seen and appreciated. Read More>>
Travis Malone
I was working with an old Nikon FM2 SLR, where I had to manually adjust exposure, shutter speed, and aperture, compose my shots intentionally, and even develop my own film in a darkroom. It was a completely different world, but being an artist at heart, I naturally gravitated toward it. I had an eye for unique angles and perspectives, and I enjoyed capturing moments in a way that told a story. Read More>>
Heather Grinnell
I am a natural light family photographer. I take more of a documentary style approach to my sessions, capturing genuine moments and smiles. I love playing around with different lighting and shadows. I’m most proud of my work with families of children with special needs. Families with children who have different challenges can have a lot of anxiety going into a session but I keep it fun and light. No pressure to pose. Above all I want to make family photography affordable for all. There’s nothing I cherish more than hearing “these are our first family photos”. Read More>>
Markeith Heard
After his military service, Mr. Heard transitioned to the field of tattoo artistry, where he has made a lasting impact in the industry. A four-time award-winning tattoo artist, he has been honing his craft for over 13 years. As both a Tattoo Artist and Piercing Technician at Panthers Tattoo Emporium, he has built a reputation for his skill, creativity, and dedication to his art. His experience and expertise have earned him the respect of his peers and a loyal clientele. Read More>>
Carmella Rogers
Determined to make it happen, I left my role as a CIO to focus entirely on building HOTWORX – Edge District. Since opening in 2022, our studio has grown into more than just a gym—it’s a wellness community. We’ve created a space where people can prioritize their health, enjoy the benefits of infrared training, and connect through special events. My background in IT, business, and marketing gave me the tools to build a strong foundation, but my passion for innovation and community is what keeps me moving forward. Read More>>
Trinity Miller
I remember being on the phone with a close friend of mine and he told me that I needed to get serious about writing music. Up until then, I didn’t take songwriting serious because I didn’t think I could do it but my friend was right, so I started writing and writing. Eventually I was performing my own original music for performances at the University, connecting with other song writers & producers in the Memphis area, and getting involved with amazing music entities such as 91.7 FM WYXR, Crosstown Arts, etc. Read More>>
Meagan Malone
As I began to approach adulthood, my sense of style began to constantly shift. This allowed me to see how diverse style can be all the while allowing me to truly see what I loved most. I wanted my personal style to fit me perfectly. This helped me to develop a deeper affection and appreciation for global fashion. While all women have their own distinctive look, we can all agree that fashion shapes us in one form or another. Read More>>
Alex Simmons
After college, I transitioned into coaching, serving as an assistant coach at Middle Tennessee State and Ole Miss. Those years allowed me to develop my leadership style, recruit top-tier talent, and mentor young athletes. In 2018, I became the head coach at Gardner-Webb University, where I built a championship-winning program and led the team to their first NCAA tournament appearance in over a decade. Read More>>
Danielle Parker
I was in college, working at my dad’s flooring store when I realized I needed a creative outlet. I had a passion for interior design and I could always draw, so I started designing bespoke furniture. I partnered with a skilled carpenter who I believed could bring my designs to fruition, and once completed I would sell them on the showroom floor. As I started designing and building more furniture, I would curate the showroom so it felt more like a home and that’s when customers would inquire about my interior design services. Read More>>
Kristian Spight
(Oct 1, 1962- February 14, 2025). Growing up as a dancer I always indulged in makeup and beauty but my influence came from my great aunt (auntie m) and my late mom (Deborah Moore). I would watch them get ready in the bathroom while they coloured their cheeks with rosy pink and red blush, plump their lips with a bright red lipstick with fierce black 90s brows and eyeliner. Watching and studying them would later be the influence for my brand Colourmefaces. Read More>>
Kristi Evans
A few years after graduating, I moved to Oxford, Mississippi, where I had my son. I took a short break from design, aside from a part-time role as an editorial designer for Hotty Toddy magazine. When I became a single mom, I moved to a small town in Middleton, TN, where I found a part-time remote job designing for a company in Nashville to support my son. Raising a toddler while managing finances was challenging, but God always provided a way. Read More>>
Traci Knight
While studying for the MCAT, a car accident left me immobile for six months. Rejecting conventional treatments, I turned to homeopathy and relearned to walk, eventually becoming a professional runner. I moved to Southern California, where I built a successful online coaching business. Just as I reached my athletic peak, a carjacking left me with a traumatic brain injury (TBI), robbing me of my ability to run, speak clearly, and even remember. Read More>>
Devin Hodges
Entering my sophomore year of college, I’ve heard about a comic book store in Memphis looking to publish comic strips made by local talent. After reading their first published anthology, I noticed the publisher lacked in titles of varying genres and stories appropriate for all ages. Most comics featured adult oriented superheroes similar to the likes of “Deadpool” and “The Boys”. It inspired me rework one of my TV show ideas for the publication. This effort led the debut my comic book series, “The Common Days of Cade”. Read More>>
Leeana Rios
Luckily it’s been a smooth road! I’m blessed to have a supportive family and that I’m able to have a flexible schedule with my partner to work when I want and work opposite days of him to be able to take care of our little one. I think in a way being a mother has it’s challenges but nothing that can’t be learned, adjusted to and over come, definitely wouldn’t go back to the old me! Read More>>
Paul Schmitz
After spending 35 years in Christian radio…on air, programming, management, fundraising, etc….I had a radical change of direction in my heart. I was having daily interaction with people who were experiencing homelessness. At first, I was fearful and very apprehensive, but God began to change my heart and really show me how much everyone means to Him, especially those who are on the margins of society and culture. Read More>>
Brandon Flowers
Being born in Memphis in the late ‘80s, entertainment was in my living room and right outside my door. However, my earliest memories of the real entertainment industry wouldn’t come until the mid-‘90s—watching Memphis Wrestling live! It was a full show, inside and out, a performance so immersive that I couldn’t tell if it was real or not. It was a thrill ride that the whole crowd and I were a part of. Watching the wrestling industry grow from what it once was to filling arenas night after night, city after city, was inspiring. People were sold on these characters and storylines, and I knew from a young age that I’d be part of something on that scale and magnitude. Read More>>
Kara Jamison
I knew other people had to feel the same frustration! Given my many years and longtime love of hosting and entertaining I thought why can’t I put these two things together. That’s when Knead to Rise became a reality. I knew there would be some interest but, had no idea it would blow up like it has. I have enjoyed meeting new people and loved that I can teach them how to make a healthy bread for their families and friends. Read More>>
Matilda Eddings
When I first started as a photographer, I was excited but quickly realized how tough the competition was. There were so many talented photographers, and it was easy to feel lost in the crowd. I struggled with mastering my equipment and finding my unique style. Seeing other photographers’ amazing work made me doubt myself. Read More>>
Monique Jones
Definitely far from smooth. I held myself back for a while because I thought I missed my chance. I was thinking is mid 20s too old to start this journey? I struggled a lot with also trying to be a present mother while trying to chase my dream. It’s still hard finding the perfect balance but I have a wonderful support system and mentors. They always say if it’s easy it’s not really worth it and I’m embracing that. Read More>>
Lakiva Williams
Honestly, I’m naturally a risk taker so I didn’t think twice about turning this new found passion of mine into a business. I created business cards, attended trade shows, weddings expos, events of my close friends etc in order to get the word out about my new business. I also used social media to my advantage. This is truly how I got my start. I was consistent in making sure everyone knew about Selfie Memphis. Over time, Selfie Memphis has continued to grow which has lead me to amazing opportunities and a lot of repeat clients! Read More>>
Grayson Brandt
It has not been a smooth road, as a teenager in high school I feel like adults that are older than me have taken advantage of me and the quality of my work. At the start, I was turning over very quality projects for very little money. The gear required to produce projects is also very expensive and not something that’s very easy to obtain as a high school student. Connections is also another struggle I have had along this journey. Finding connections is very hard and connections means everything, I have found that all of my business is through connections and as a young high school student, it’s very hard to make those. Read More>>
Jeffro Howard
I moved around a lot and I’d be happy to share any details that are pertinent to what you are looking for. I have a story of being on drugs, and now serve in the recovery community in Memphis and have also lead several local non-profits. Some people like this part of the story and others don’t find it fits a business context but I have no issue talking openly about it. Mainly oxy contin and xanax. Drug dealer turned pastor/real estate broker. lol Read More>>
Leonel Moya
Since adolescence I had an interest in aesthetics, my first incursions in the wardrobe was customizing sneakers, then sewing pants by hand and due to a love breakup I changed the course of my life and in the year 2023 I started to design clothes on my own, throughout these two years I have developed a lot in a self-taught way. Read More>>
Vivica Smith
I am a full spectrum doula. A doula is a non medical professional who provides guidance for the service of others and who supports birthing women through a significant health-related experiences, such as childbirth, miscarriage, induced abortion, VBAC, etc.
My journey start off slow and I was working on two different doula certifications so I can serve women in different ways. Now I’m serving women in the ways such as prenatal support, labor and delivery, postpartum care, and miscarriage and abortion support. I also do lotus births, placental encapsulations, and I’m a breastfeeding peer counselor. Read More>>
Lesa Danielle Neal
Until then I will be posting weekly specials for Chicken Spaghetti Rotel, Chicken Guadalajara, Chicken Alfredo, Air fried tomato pesto shrimp and pasta, any fruit cobbler you can think of, etc! I charge minimally so that I still profit but, also help out the friends I’ve made along the way so that they can have meals for the week or month. I have one client/friend that has purchased meals from me every time I cook since I started this endeavor. Whether it be for parties she has at home or for her dear friend with cancer. They split the family-size pan into individual servings and freeze it like microwaveable meals! Read More>>
Hank Nightshade And The Midnight Sons
Hank was in the military for several years and now is a musician full time. Robby is manager at Engines Inc, Micheal is an insurance manager, Shaun is a Coordinator at an Education Cooperative. We think we are all proud of the steps in life we have taken to get where are. Challenges have made us into the person we can be proud of. The experience helps us to write these good stories to make into songs. Read More>>
Deswick Bonds Jr.
That’s when I found the insurance and final expense industry. Partnering with the largest final expense company in the nation, Lincoln Heritage & the Funeral Advantage Program for Seniors, I quickly realized this was more than just a business—it was a mission. Within my first year, I helped over 250 families secure financial peace of mind, ensuring their loved ones wouldn’t have to struggle with end-of-life expenses. I worked my way up, not just as an agent, but as a leader—breaking production records at Memorial Gardens Insurance Services with over $43000 in production in just my second full month. By March 2025, I’ll reach my first anniversary in the industry, but in many ways, I feel like I’m just getting started. Read More>>
Tamika Heard
I love being able to bake and bring happy feelings to so many people. We bake 22 fresh homemade cookies everyday except Sundays. We also make banana puddings made with our Butter Cookies. Pies made with our Butter Cookie Crust and we also dabble in other Sweets on Saturdays (Super Sweet Saturday at Butteriffic) like Brownies, cakes, cake pops and other baked goods. We also like to connect with the community by allowing entrepreneurs to showcase their products art the bakery. We also invite local Foodtrucks to pop up. Read More>>
Tommy Arnold
Music has been the heartbeat of my life for the past 25 years. It all started in Memphis, where I formed bands with my friends from Cordova High School. After graduating, I pursued jazz performance at the University of Memphis, but my passion extended beyond the classroom. I was gigging with a local metal band, Throne, while working full-time at Guitar Center. Eventually, the demands of school, music, and work became overwhelming, and after two years, I made the tough choice to leave college and focus entirely on my band. Our dream was to land a record deal and make music our full-time career. Read More>>
Sully Ortega
I became the primary basketball photographer for UAB during the 2023-24 season and had an absolute blast doing it, even it only paid $10 an hour. In May of 2024 my old UAB manager had a connection with the Creative Director at Arkansas Football. I applied and accepted a position with Arkansas in May and started in June. My role here at Arkansas consists of photography, videography and social media posting and strategy. That’s where I am today and it has been a blast working in Fayetteville. Read More>>
Allyson Galloway
She got her first boyfriend at the age of 15, and for the first time, Galloway felt as if she had found someone who could protect her from the craziness. But he too came from chaos in his own home but soon they parted ways too. Galloway found herself in the arms of the man who would ultimately be her husband today. They fell in love within weeks of meeting and became best friends. They became increasingly close in the next few months and before they knew it, they were expecting a baby boy. “He was born into the storm, but he became the rainbow.” Read More>>
Madeline Rose
I have always struggled with confidence. Starting out it was hard to avoid imposter syndrome. looking back on my earlier posts I don’t see myself, I see someone trying to fit in. It’s so cliche, but when I started to show up authenticity in my business, I started attracting dream clients with similar values. I love that I am a person who is still learning and figuring it out. There will always be someone more skilled and experienced than me, and that’s just another opportunity to grow Read More>>
Sade Tunstall
A highly motivated, high school drop out. Sounds crazy right! Well that was me. I have always had the mentality and resilience to win. Even when I had to drop out high school, to become the breadwinner for my family. I understood my purpose was much bigger, than my current situation. I have always had a caring heart to help people. To make people lives better, more meaningful, and feel loved. Being a manual therapist and wellness professional has been so rewarding. Knowing that my gift of touch, has impacted 1000’s of lives makes my heart joyful. My love for people, and my trust in God has brought me thus far. And the foundation of , Sade’s Therapeutic Touch LLC. Read More>>
DJ Stussy
I started working in education as a college advisor, turned teacher after I graduated. Took a three year hiatus from music to focus on finishing school, then released my next album “Until Further Notice” in 2023. I changed school districts, had a few life struggles, then released my last project “A Kid From South Central” on my birthday in 2024. This album reflected my time as a young man growing up in Los Angeles and how I got to this point in my music career. Read More>>
Grae Williams
That instinct never left me. It carried me from Concept Artist to Brand Designer to World-Building Storyteller. Each step, another chapter. Now, I lead a storytelling consultancy that’s revolutionizing the way nonprofits tell their stories. And a story studio that’s building a new mythology—one where Black American culture stands in its own pantheon of fables and gods. Looking back, it feels like I’ve been sitting at the right hand of Anansi all along. Read More>>
Georgenia Stewart
I began my journey into the beauty industry at a very young age. I took cosmetology in High school and graduated with my cosmetology license in 2003. I embarked on entrepreneurship at 19 by being an independent contractor in a few salons. It wasn’t until 2019 I opened my own salon G’Spot Beauty Bistro. I have embarked on several avenues since my entrance into the industry such as teaching classes, film/tv, and theater work. Read More>>
