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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.

Sharese Pennington

Most definitely.. its hard not being me. Read more >>>

D’vyne

To always tell the truth. To myself, to others. There’s nothing wrong in honest reflection, everything wrong with harsh criticism. Learning how to sit in truth isn’t always comfortable, sometimes ‘overly vulnerable’, but it’s something to cherish. To hold onto, as it keeps changing. Read more >>>

Pack Heavy

Your fear is a guide, showing you the direction you’re meant to move toward. Without fear, you would likely settle for where you are in life. I’ve realized that whenever you feel a strong emotion, it’s the Universe trying to communicate with you. Emotions and physical sensations in the body are powerful triggers that move us into action. Read more >>>

KAANG

I had to let go of the belief that I knew exactly how my life was going to play out. When I was in 3rd grade, I swore up and down I was going to be a famous comic artist and animator. The whole plan was there. Read more >>>

Jada Sade

The first 90 minutes of my day set the tone for everything that follows, especially as a business owner. I usually start around 6:30 AM with a moment of prayer and gratitude, centering myself before jumping into the day. I then review my to-do list and check any overnight emails or DMs from clients. Read more >>>

Beth Okeon

I recently started a 70-mile bike ride in support of Junior Achievement of Memphis and the Mid-South’s 70th anniversary. It’s been a fun, rewarding (and HOT!) adventure that has helped me reconnect with people I love and meet new people too. I’ve enjoyed getting to be outside, see my neighbors and ride for a good cause. Read more >>>

Emily Cohen DeLaney

I hope I’ve made people feel seen, both through enhancing their look, but also personally, in my chair. Read more >>>

Tyrus Solomon

For me, the part that has served it’s purpose is the version of me that felt unsafe pursuing what my heart truly desired—the part that questioned whether I was capable of achieving certain things. I’ve experienced too much, seen too many sides, and gained too much perspective to remain the same. Read more >>>

Takaya Eafen

The moment that made me see the world was when I had to learn emotional intelligence at a very young age. I always like to learn so anything I felt I sought to understand why and this helped me to understand why people are the way that they are and form consideration and to never accept you in everyone. Expect nothing to avoid disappointment. Read more >>>

Martell Washington

My Wife saw me long before I was fully aware of who I really was, before I had uncovered the layers of my true self. She recognized potential in me that I hadn’t yet grasped, and her unwavering support became a catalyst for my personal growth. Read more >>>

Gena Heelz

When I was a little girl as far as I can remember, my granddaddy which I called him “daddy” use to say to me, “Gena, your daddy George loves you!” He’d me look straight in my eyes and say “Gena, you’re a diamond in the rough and dont you forget that.” Read more >>>

Akeara W

My attention to their idea. Whenever I am working with someone, I try to make their goals my most paramount task. Read more >>>

Joe M. Turner

My earliest memories are from my family’s little three-bedroom house in Jackson, Mississippi in the mid-1970s. Picture wood paneling, linoleum, a sliding glass door to the backyard with a curtain hanging in front of it, and a ‘giant’ 26′ console television. Read more >>>

brittney kelsey

My earliest memory of feeling powerful was realizing that my strength doesn’t come from me, it comes from Jesus living in me. That’s my true source of power. He makes me untouchable, intriguing, and great, and as long as I move in His will, His name will always get the glory out of my life and my work. Read more >>>

Nicole Gates-Golden

For Dr. Nicole Gates-Golden, legacy building is more than just a cultural value; it’s a profound commitment to crafting a lasting impact that will echo through generations. She envisions a future where her children and grandchildren not only remember her achievements with pride but also benefit from the foundations she has laid. Read more >>>

Linneka Watson

I’d say one thing I changed my mind about after failing hard was realizing that the world doesn’t stop when you do. No matter what happens, you have to get back up and keep going. I went through a rough patch where I felt like my life was falling apart. Read more >>>

Kendra Reed

Yes, I would hire me because I am passionate about any task set before me. I dedicate myself to completing work that highlights my strengths while consistently striving to improve. Most importantly, I work hard to ensure every interaction provides a meaningful and positive experience. Read more >>>

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