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.
JT Trask
At the end of the day, most businesses do not take the time to think through the totality of their growth initiatives. In most cases, emotion or desires directs decisions. I knew I had to be more confident in explaining the value of a longterm strategy. One that sets the business up for future success – instead of instant gratification. This philosophy has been in me for a long time. But I wasn’t even taking my own advice.Thinking outside of the box to reach ideal customers should be everyone’s goal. Read more>>
Taylor Scott
I have been in the field now going on two years and it is the most fulfilling role I’ve ever been in. I am licensed in both TN and OH. I moved to Memphis, TN with my husband and currently see clients through Appleseeds. I am also an adjunct professor in the Behavioral and Social Science Division at LeMoyne-Owen College. I am always accepting new clients and love helping others work through empowering themselves to change. Although my upbringing was a bit hectic, I am so thankful to be called to this profession. Read more>>
Tavis Harvey
I’m a full time creative. I am a photographer, videographer, creative director, content creator and music artist. I’m known for my work with Jaren Jackson Jr, NLESS Entertainment, CMG, working with several celebrities and entertainers, and my music. I have to say I’m proud of everything I’ve done so far because it takes serious dedication to see it all through. What sets me apart is my resilience, my fearlessness, and pure passion for the entertainment culture Read more>>
Kajuandria Williams
After earning my first degree and launching my nursing career in DeSoto County, my passion for creativity never dimmed. When I welcomed my first child, I dove headfirst into crafting all her party essentials, including favors and t-shirts. This passion blossomed further with the arrival of my second daughter, when a family member gifted me the business name, Williams Printing and Things. I began offering a variety of custom and personalized products, such as apparel, accessories, business marketing materials, custom party favors, logos/graphics, and printing services. Read more>>
Candice Smith
All of this came together in the creation of SheRose, a movement designed to help women rise, thrive, and own their power. In 2020, I moved to Memphis to continue this mission, and through SheRose Extension Bar, I’ve built a space where beauty and connection meet. Whether it’s restoring confidence with hair extensions or hosting events for like-minded women, I’m dedicated to helping women feel beautiful, supported, and strong. When women feel empowered, there’s nothing they can’t do, and I’m honored to be part of that transformation. Read more>>
Brandy Casséus
I got my start in education over 10 years ago when I started a job as a Teaching Assistant in a Geometry classroom. It was a challenging experience that showed me how passionate I am about helping OUR kids thrive and create lives that truly make them happy. I have experience coordinating educational programs in middle and high schools, managing after-school programming and summer camps, hiring and training staff to work with youth, working as a behavior specialist, and in the classroom teaching social-emotional learning K-8. In my current role at the Memphis Music Initiative (MMI), I design and lead the programming we offer to young, creative Memphians. Read more>>
Mark Lynch
The road to Memphis presented many challenges. From life, to loss, to cherished people and the distance currently between us. However, I am grateful for my Memphian friends, colleagues and professors. They say a good friend is the best defence against life, and I am grateful to those who have kept me sane and provided impactful company and comfort. Thanks to Alex, JP, Rebecca and of course, Brendan (Who definitely still needs to practice his pickleball skills). Above all else, without my Father’s support, none of this would be possible. Read more>>
Elisha Newsom
However, as time went on, recognition from strangers began to grow, and before I knew it, I was doing the hair of anyone who gave me a chance. I would post every day on social media and slowly but surely I started to get noticed by different brands and consumers. Thanks to social media and my creativity I’ve grown my brand alone yet pretty far. Read more>>
Eliana Nunez
I have learned the importance of taking in moments, but what I love the most is being able to share the feeling I had in that moment with others, through a photograph. At 16, I bought my first real professional camera. When I began taking photos on my camera I felt like I was finally seeing these words of mine come to life. My poetry was right in front of me. I could feel the words I could feel the emotion the photo brought. Read more>>
Swauvé Tay
Although, I wasn’t constantly writing & growing my skill I would always tend to watch or listen to information to further help my career in all aspects. Even if it wasn’t someone I knew; in public I would always keep a listening ear out. I didn’t realize it but, in the Verge of finding myself in those ten years+ I subconsciously became a sponge absorbing every piece of knowledge I came across. In every aspect not just music. (Life, Environment, Etc.) Read more>>
Demi Blvck
At first, it was just for me, but people started noticing the pieces and asking me to create looks for them. One request turned into another, and before I knew it, I was building a brand. My skills grew with every piece, and so did the vision. What started as a creative outlet turned into a purpose and now, it’s a whole movement. Read more>>
KAANG
Then suddenly things just stopped working out. LA is expensive, and I had been living on my own since 17. At that point I was about to become homeless again. Maybe for the 3rd time. I had to make the hard decision to pack it up and move. I also wanted to finish school. Now I live in the Midsouth, and attened University of Memphis. Read more>>
Jasmon Battle
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but every challenge has shaped me into the businesswoman I am today. Starting out, I had to learn a lot through trial and error—how to manage my time, how to market myself, and how to create a solid client experience from start to finish. On top of that, balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship is a daily challenge. There are days where I’m tired, overwhelmed, or questioning if I’m doing enough—but I always remind myself of my ‘why.’ Read more>>
Sutton McCraney
I was born and raised in Utah as an only child in a household that demanded maturity beyond my years. Growing up Black in a predominantly white state with parents who lived through the Civil Rights era instilled in me a profound sense of awareness and often led to overanalyzing my place in the world. This complex upbringing shaped my worldview and informed the decisions I made throughout my life. Read more>>
Mykenzie Mathis
I am a serial entrepreneur and business coach who began with photography in 2019. I have been a full time photographer for six years now. What started as a hobby capturing friends and family grew into the passionate business I run today. I’ve had the honor of coaching other photographers on their similar journey for the past few years now as well. While photography is what I am known for, I have grown and expanded as a business owner. Anyone who knows me, knows that I am passionate about connection and intentionality as this is the foundation for MyKenzie Alexis Photography. This desire for more connection with those I love and being more intentional in my day to day have brought me to my newest business venture – Intentional Crafts and Paperie. Read More>>
DeRone Payne
I am DeRone Payne—better known as 2Cent in the music production world. I have built a career rooted in passion, talent, and an undeniable ear for music. A proud Memphis native, my journey began as a self-taught music producer in my teenage years. My career accelerated when I interned at a local Memphis music studio post-high school, learning directly from Memphis heavyweights like Kinfolk Thugs (Dump Truck), Hot Rod (producer of Yo Gotti’s 5 Star Chick) and T-Mack (audio engineer for Memphis legends 8-Ball & MJG). Read more>>
