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Highlighting Local Gems

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.

Faith

I truly believe that I am currently following the path that God has designed for me. Before I became a licensed Esthetician, I would pray and seek guidance on which career was meant for me. I often felt lost and sensed that I wasn’t fulfilling His purpose while working various jobs. Read more>>

Deora Clairé

On July 24th of this year, I was blessed to turn 30 while releasing my very own first book “Broken to Blossom: How My Mental Health Journey Cultivated My God-Given Purpose” available on Amazon. Birthing my book into the world on the same day I was born made me feel proud to be alive. Read more>>

Pack Heavy

Stay focused, don’t date any women, get in your bag, learn about finances, and take as many risks as possible. Run towards your fear, doubt, and the unknown to discover yourself more. Create memories and lock in on your goals. Read books, that’s where the sauce is. Don’t take advice from someone who isn’t in a position you wish you were in. Buy Bitcoin!!! Read more>>

Justin Wise

Go for it! I’ve never been a risk taker. Taking the leap to start my business took so many pushes. There’s never a perfect time to start and I kept putting it off. I wish I would have taken the leap sooner! Read more>>

Velinda Humphreys

Absolutely — but it’s the healed and growing version of me. What you see publicly is not a performance; it’s the woman I’ve fought to become. I show up with purpose, authenticity, and compassion because that’s truly who I am — not just online or in my businesses, but in my quiet moments too. Read more>>

Tavia Rodgers

With the recent loss of my mother, I’ve been forced into a chapter I never imagined I’d face so soon. I am being called to walk in faith like never before: to navigate life without the comfort of her wisdom, the strength of her support, and the warmth of her advice. This journey has stripped away distractions and made everything deeply spiritual for me. Read more>>

Kay Alexis

What I’m most proud of building quietly is my self-awareness and emotional intelligence. I’ve learned that it’s okay to sit with my emotions, but I don’t let them dictate my moves. Even when life throws chaos or energy meant to distract or destroy, I stay rooted and aligned. I move with grace, not impulse. Reading The Four Agreements really shifted something in me. Read more>>

Natosha Harris

Suffering has taught me perseverance in a way success never could. It taught me how to lean on my faith without wavering, and how to use quiet, slow moments to truly rest, recharge, and ground myself through prayer and meditation. Success often gets painted as all glitz and glamour, but the truth is, it can bring its own kind of hardship. Read more>>

Percy Chalmers

I hope people say that Percy Chalmers Jr., better known as Percy Plates, built more than just a catering brand he built a legacy rooted in love, flavor, and purpose. I want folks to remember that I started with just a vision in a dorm room, and through every challenge, I stayed true to who I was and where I came from. Read more>>

Vincent Williams

My closest friends would say that my relationship with God is the thing that matters most to me. Especially at this stage in my life. I wouldn’t have lasted this long in the business if I didn’t just sit back and let my path be directed, instead of trying to figure everything out myself. Read more>>

Erica Ross

My closest friends would say that my relationship with God is the thing that matters most to me. Especially at this stage in my life. I wouldn’t have lasted this long in the business if I didn’t just sit back and let my path be directed, instead of trying to figure everything out myself. Read more>>

Marquita Gipson

All three of these things are important. If I had to choose one, it would have to be integrity. Everything that you do leads from it. Your actions or lack thereof will always demonstrate your level of integrity, intentionally and character. Read more>>

Trina Allen-Johnson

After my mom passed is when I would have to say that I stopped hiding my pain. Once I realized that the person that meant everything to me was gone and I would now have to face the world alone it made me channel all the hurt and pain I had endured through the years into creating a whole new life for myself. Read more>>

Vanessa West

Ooo, I love this question. Honestly, I feel like I’m in the middle of figuring that out all over again. Read more>>

Elisha Angelique

If I stripped away the titles people know me by… If I walked away from the professional roles I walk in; hairstylist, makeup artist, entrepreneur… If I let go of the things I’ve worked hard to earn; my tools, my wardrobe, platforms, accolades… What would remain is me; the raw, unfiltered version. The woman God created before the world called me anything. Read more>>

Temiika D Gipson

One of the principles I live by and have consistently taught my adult children and those I’ve had the privilege of mentoring is to do everything with a spirit of excellence. Whether recognized or not, our efforts should reflect the best version of ourselves. Read more>>

Anthony Mitchell

Right now, a normal day for me usually means juggling a lot of hats. I’m balancing my military duties as a Tech Sergeant with running The Endzone Club, planning events, connecting with athletes, and working on community outreach projects. Somewhere in between, I’m a husband and dad, so family time with Tesha and Portland is a big priority. Read more>>

Dr. Orisha Bowers

🌺 **The Relationship That Most Shaped How I See Myself** The relationship that most profoundly shaped how I see myself is the one I shared with my mother. She was my fiercest advocate, my unwavering cheerleader, and the person who believed in my potential long before I fully saw it myself. Her love wasn’t just nurturing—it was empowering. Read more>>

Tamara Johnson

“Yes, I would absolutely hire me. I bring a proven track record of persistence, leadership, and results. I’m highly adaptable — moving successfully between industries such as beauty, real estate, and event management — while consistently delivering excellence. I have a strong work ethic, integrity, and a gift for connecting with people, which allows me to build trust quickly and maintain lasting relationships. Read more>>

Tameka McGhee

I’ve worked in the home care industry for over 22 years, holding both clinical and non-clinical roles that have shaped my ability to lead with skill, empathy, and professionalism. Through this journey, I’ve developed a deep understanding of the care continuum, the importance of quality service, and the systems that support both clients and caregivers. Read more>>

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