Clarence Jey | Record Producer & Songwriter

The decision to take each day as a new beginning in navigating my career in the industry that I am in – Music. If one was to break this down, it can be anything from practicing the craft to learning new skills, having a fresh, positive approach toward clients, colleagues and collaborators and more importantly, leaving adversities behind by not carrying any negativity forward. I continue to experience positive growth based on this attitude and always look forward to tomorrow, while maximizing today – every day is a restart. Read more>>

D FITZ | Multimedia Creative

There is nothing more important than simply deciding to believe in yourself. Whether it be in the arts, or in life as a whole. Believing in yourself and being yourself will take you far. The most important decision I have made for myself as a creative is choosing to believe that I can do what I set my mind to, and not compromising who I am as a person under any circumstances whatsoever.
There is no price tag on being fully and unabashedly yourself. There is no art like your own art from your own mind. We are all art in our own ways, like an array of painted canvases. Read more>>

Kyna “JusBam” Ealey | Hip-Hop Artist. & TV Producer

“Doin t it for the love of it” is my record label Love is Life Entertainment motto. It reminds me that every thing you create may not always bring a monetary return. I make music because I love hip-hop. I write songs that I hope will encourage my listeners to positive. And to inspire good music. And I am not under pressure to conform to the current industry standard. The same mentality is why I created CultureVille. Read more>>

Keisha Griggs | dynamic entrepreneur, accomplished author, notary public, and innovative digital creator

One of my favorite quotes is Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” This verse holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of the inner strength and resilience that faith provides. As an entrepreneur, author, notary, and digital creator, I often face challenges and uncertainties. This quote serves as a constant reminder that with faith, determination, and hard work, I can overcome any obstacle and achieve my goals. It empowers me to push forward, stay positive, and trust in the process, no matter how difficult the journey may be. Read more>>

Nina de Vitry | Multi-Instrumentalist & Songwriter

I think risk is a very important element of learning. As a musician, it has been essential for me to take risks in order to grow. I am grateful to have been a part of many different spaces and communities in my life where I felt safe enough to put myself out there and explore new ideas on my instruments, and because of this, I have been able to gain more confidence in my abilities. Read more>>

Monika Miller | Space Witch

Recently, when I was asked to speak at the upcoming Knoxville Maker Summit, I had an opportunity to reflect on what it is that I create, a question posed to all participants. I realized that I make artists. People who graduate from working with me feel compelled to explore their creative side. I also create customers for artists and artisans because my clients after working with me come to value quality, craftsmanship, and the human energy imbued in handmade objects. Read more>>

Lauren Palmer | Farmer Entrepreneur

We have literally built the farm around what chefs, members, parents, guests want. What best way to start a business with just an ask. But yes it all started with some seeds and my father and I talking about what veggies we thought would be fun to grow. From feeding shoppers at the market to the many chef requests we have built a trust to how we grow and why. I love the unique requests and the searching for flavors the super market doesn’t have so bring it on what can we not grow. Read more>>

Zehila Lopez Juarez | Zehila Lopez Juarez | Poet

I will say a lot of things make me happy, but the main ones are writing poetry, I love to express myself in writing. For me writing is art. I also love to help others, it’s something I do daily. I love to see people happy and make them feel welcome. I love diversity, I see it as an opportunity to meet new cultures and a different view of the world. I love to take photographs and just freeze the memories in just one picture. My family and small things make me happy. Read more>>