We were fortunate to catch up with some brilliant artists, creatives and entrepreneurs from throughout the Houston area and they share the wisdom with us below.

Rhonda Botros | Founder of InBliss Travel

I define success by asking myself, *am I doing what makes me happy?* For me, success isn’t measured by traditional standards or other people’s definitions. It’s about waking up every day knowing I’m making a positive impact in the world. Whether it’s connecting travelers to new cultures, supporting artisans, or helping people see the beauty in our shared humanity, that’s what success looks like to me. It’s not about how much I’ve achieved by external measures, but whether I’m living a life that feels meaningful and true to myself. Read more>>

James Delong | Pitmaster & Owner

Our most important factor behind our success has been Determination! Drive! And Customer Satisfaction!
We have built our brand off of serving Delicious Bbq, Consistency, and keep our Customers Happy and coming back for more. Read more>>

Abigail Mae | Singer & Songwriter

One principle that has always mattered most to me is kindness. It seems simple to be kind, and it is, but as humans, it is definitely easier to let emotion and anger get in the way sometimes. I think always striving to be the kindest person you can be is one of the most important things we can do as humans. Kindness can go so far and everyone deserves it in their lives. I believe that kindness can also be the biggest motivator to others as well. I feel that as long as we are all kinder to each other, so much of our worlds can change. Read more>>

Harley Rose Nemeth | Owner of Charming Lane Boutique and Hair by Harley

I’ve always known I would own a business. I knew from an early age that I wanted to pursue a creative career. I started my career as a Licensed Cosmetologist which is where Hair by Harley was born. I’ve spent 10 years building my clientele and love having my hair-apy sessions with all my clients in the chair. I don’t know who needs it more: me or them! Read more>>

Hector Silva | Sociologist and cook

I will say is the break of the fear, is important and is hard to go further if you think in negativity , the what if it dosent work , what if I don’t do good, so yes , is to be able to break the fear and follow your mind to make things happen. Read more>>

Shannon Santerelli Freeman | Holistic Practitioner & Energetic Coach

My end goal is quite different from what many might envision. While others may aspire to achieve a certain level of revenue, fame, or awards, my focus is on the impact I can make within my community. By the end of my career, I hope to share the knowledge of healing through holistic methods, empowering individuals—especially women—to support each other on their journeys toward alignment and health. Read more>>

Terry Lawson | Fashion Designer & Curator

I grew up in Birmingham. And believe it or not… especially when I was growing up, Birmingham was hella fashionable. Especially see I grew up in the “cracking” era… people would make fun of you if your weren’t together lol… can’t get caught lacking out here. But… I was always a fan of all the different looks. Back to Duckhead, Starter Jackets, baseball outfits, airbrush shirts and jeans, Polo, Tommy Hilfiger, Nautica, etc… all of it. Read more>>

Damaris Villalva | Marketing Expert / Founder of Raiz Marketing

As someone born in Mexico and raised in the U.S. under DACA, my journey has been marked by resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to achieving my dreams. Growing up as a DACA recipient and a first-generation college student, I experienced firsthand the challenges and opportunities that come with navigating a path where few precedents exist. My journey has been marked by resilience and determination, motivating me to carve out a niche where I can make a meaningful impact and help others do the same. Read more>>

Dame Mufasa | Hip Hop Artist, Curator, & Community Organizer

I’m intensely passionate about the transformative power of art! The capacity art has to alter reality whether that be personally or through communities. All great inspiration comes from the foundation of love or creativity, I believe art is the intersection of both. This drives me to create and collaborate with other creators that believe in the power of creativity to build better realities. Read more>>