Every neighborhood in Houston has its own vibe, style, culture and history, but what consistently amazes us is not what differentiates the various neighborhoods but rather what they all have in common.  From the Fourth Ward to Sugar Land (and everywhere in between) we’ve been blown away by how many creative and talented people call Houston home.  Check out some of the inspiring stories we’ve discovered throughout the city.

Ireion Smith

It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Like most business owners, I’ve faced my share of obstacles—but a few hit especially hard. One of the most discouraging challenges has been chargebacks from customers. As a floral business, we put a lot of time and money into each order, so when someone falsely disputes a charge after receiving their flowers, it’s not only disheartening—it’s costly. Read more>>

JoAnn And Daniel Clark

It’s definitely been a process. Lots of trial and errors I think one of the hardest struggles was trying to find a permanent place to park the trailer so we’d have a designated spot for people to come and taste our creations also, the hardest was just getting our name out but after a while we started getting invited to do events and that was always fun getting to meet new people and now we have a permanent spot downtown Read more>>

Jose & Neysil Mendez

When we transitioned from food truck to brick-and-mortar in 2023, the challenges didn’t stop — they just changed. Rent went up, food costs skyrocketed, and building a team has been tough with the current labor climate. We’ve juggled business stress while raising a family and trying to stay afloat in an industry that doesn’t slow down for anyone. Read more>>

Henry & Meredith Nguyen

I was inspired to study Chinese medicine after living in South Korea. What started as a brief, 6-month teaching stint turned into a 3-year stay, because I absolutely loved it there. I fully immersed myself in the culture, eating the way many Koreans eat, experiencing a more community-centric way of living, getting acupuncture and visiting jjimjilbangs (or, Korean spas) regularly – all of which contributed to a complete transformation in my physical health! I had always been pretty sick as a kid, but seeing how much my health changed when I began to incorporate better foods, acupuncture, and more balance into my life, it just made sense for me to study Eastern medicine once I finally moved back. Read more>>

Harmony Sewell

Growing up in a military household, I learned early on the values of discipline and resilience. My Dad , dedicated to serving our country for 30 years, instilled in me a strong work ethic and a sense of duty. I’ve always looked up to my mother, whose strength and compassion have been guiding lights in my life. While some of my siblings chose to follow in my dads footsteps and join the military, I felt a different calling that would lead me down my own unique path. Read more>>

Valerie Ramon

Then there’s the behind-the-scenes stuff people don’t always see—self-doubt, burnout, questioning if I was “doing enough” or “doing it right.” I’ve had to learn to give myself grace, pivot when things weren’t working, and trust that building something meaningful takes time. Through the last years, I found strength and community. I found a deeper reason to keep going. Building this business has been personal. It’s taught me a lot about showing up consistently, trusting my intuition, and embracing my own version of success. I’m proud of how far I’ve come, and I’m even more excited about what’s ahead. Read more>>

Precious Howard

I didn’t know where to edit funny enough. I remember editing videos on the computer in high school using Microsoft video I believe it was called but I was confused. It was September 2019 at this time. In the pranks the YouTubers lived in Texas and we were tried off the job market where we were. My man started applying for jobs in Texas. He really wanted me to follow my dream. By October 2019 we moved to Texas. My dream grew drastically being in Texas. Everything so big and beautiful. I started to watch videos on how to grow on YouTube, I learned how to edit. I was so happy, still no time to sew, fine, I kept recording my family and changed the channel name to PeeMadeFamily. Read more>>

Risen Grxve

My first obstacle as Risen Grxve was learning how to adjust to working by myself, without any members to really bounce ideas off of. There was a lot of times where I would find myself stuck in a creative roadblock and dealing with some imposters syndrome. Over the last few years I’ve learned to gain confidence in myself, my abilities and learning how to use the equipment I had access to. The first few songs and The Deathwish Diaries Ep were recorded off of a 2 in 1 headphone and mini microphone from the dollar store. Read more>>

Luis Chavez

I would say I got here by learning business practices working with my father, seeing him build a company from the ground up. I started treating my journey as a business in the making. I am here today thanks to my entrepreneurial father, an artistic inner drive to create, a joy in serving others, and a passion for photography. I would also thank God for the opportunities that have come along the way. Read more>>

Tasneem Plumber

I began designing fine jewelry rooted in authenticity, soul, and craftsmanship. Every piece I create today tells a story—my story, but also the stories of those who wear them. Rosecut diamond jewelry, with its vintage charm and raw elegance, became my signature. These diamonds, with their imperfect facets and soft shimmer, mirrored everything I stood for: survival, transformation, and beauty that doesn’t need to shout to shine. Read more>>

Noemie Garcia

I’m currently focusing on engagements, elopements and wedding photography, which I’m really passionate about because it allows me to capture one of the most important days in a couple’s life. That said, I have experience across a wide range of lifestyle photography from real estate listings to professional headshots and everything in between. Read more>>

Karla Juarez

I was born and raised in Mexico, in the smallest state of the country. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been deeply curious about the natural world, which led me to study biology back home. At the time, it was my biggest passion, and after graduating, I dreamed of pursuing a master’s degree abroad. I moved to Austin, Texas to work and save up for that goal—but life had other plans. Read more>>

Tomika Gambl

That experience with pediatric and adult cancer also showed me the true power of community and giving back. So many people poured into my family during our hardest days, and that generosity inspired me to dedicate my life to doing the same for others. That’s why I founded The Melanin Impact Collective (MIC) — a nonprofit built on the belief that we, as a community, can be the solution we’ve been waiting for. Through MIC, we support youth with mentorship and scholarships, uplift single mothers, create spaces for Black men to thrive, and inspire everyone to give back. Read more>>

Jennifer

One of the most powerful offshoots of The Runners Chat has been the Girls Chat. A private group chat created just for women. It’s become a safe and inspiring space where we uplift one another, share wellness tips, celebrate victories, and talk openly about topics like women’s health, mindset, and self-care. It’s not just about running, it’s about real-life support. Read more>>

Hailey Kolbe

In 2019 with another prompting from The Lord I resigned to pursue my own interior design firm, Hailey Kolbe Design. However, it was never my intention at the beginning of my career to start my own design firm as I believed, “I only wanted to design.” That continues to prove untrue today as HKD turned six this past May and my favorite part of running a design firm is actually the business side of things. It was a beautiful and refining process to arrive here though. I leaned into my faith in Jesus to reveal the desires of my heart I thought I knew best. Little did I know, He truly knew me better than I knew myself. Read more>>

Julissa Monreal

One of my absolute favorite types of sessions to photograph are western and country-themed shoots. Whether it’s a maternity session, birthday, graduation, or a family shoot, if there are cowboy boots and hats involved, I’m all in! I truly feel most inspired when I get to blend storytelling with rustic charm and bold personal style. Read more>>

Jaclyn Lizzi

While I am thrilled to be building a community of like-minded people who are interested making these songs accessible to a larger audience, the natural consequences of more views is more criticism. On top of that, I hadn’t worked professionally as a musician, so doing my first live show last year at 28 years old (in another country, no less!) was nerve-racking but rewarding experience. Singing from the safety of my own home is very different than singing on a stage, but I’m learning to rise to the challenge. Read more>>

Alfred Moody

Most recently, in September 2023, I launched Earline’s Soul Food & More—a tribute to my late mother, Earline, and everything she taught me in the kitchen. Cooking for others has always brought me joy, and now I get to share that joy through comforting, homemade meals served with love. We are open on Saturdays and Sundays and we also cater specific events. Our location can also be used to host events and special occasions as well. Read more>>

Mariela Cazares

Starting a whole business, I knew that it was going to be very difficult. That was very true just x10, I guess starting a business in the middle of 2020 did not help. That first year it did cross my mind to give up, thinking that this was maybe not for me. Im so happy that I didn’t give up, even thought there was a lot of stressful and discouraging moments it all was worth while. To this day is very hard passing through those slow days, but I always remember that theres is a whole group of people that help me get through everything. Read more>>

Miranda Amézaga

At the beginning of last year (2024) a group of friends and I were sitting at a table talking over something silly, when we then realized that the topic of discussion could make for a great short film. And so with the idea of writing a script, over several months of meeting, writing, and planning we finalized “Girls Night Out”. Throughout this process my love for the production process grew, I knew that I would want to continue putting together film in the Houston area, and more specifically along side Ceion Scott and Carmen Reeves, my fellow producers. After conversation with the girls, realizing that we all shared a common goal and passion “Girls Night Out Productions” was formed, in homage to our first film that will be completed this summer. Read more>>

Erika Ortiz

Since then, I’ve worked with national brands, independent founders, and families looking to make their homes and businesses truly reflect who they are. My studio now blends interior design, creative direction, and brand storytelling into one vision. It’s not always been linear. I’ve balanced motherhood, entrepreneurship, and personal growth along the way, but design has remained my anchor through it all. Read more>>

Emily Egan

While in chiropractic school, I had the privilege of taking extracurricular classes in IASTM (instrument assisted soft tissue manipulation), acupuncture, and Webster technique (prenatal) to further the opportunities I would have upon graduating. In my last year of school, I was looking for an office in Houston that encompassed all of these new skills that I would be able to utilize and see in practice – this is how I found Dr. Nataly Perez’s office. I was able to complete one of my internships with her and gain valuable knowledge in how to run a successful practice. Read more>>

Lauren Hollis

I began in private practice after my internship where I could work with a broader range of people and provide different services. I currently work with children, adolescents, individuals and couples who struggle with trauma, grief, medical issues, anxiety, depression, transitions in life and coping. I am also a supervisor for Licensed Professional Counselor- Associates and enjoy being able to help temporary licensed counselors on their journey to being fully licensed and be the best counselor that they can be. Read more>>

Chase Cheeney

We only knew about four songs at the time, so we played them on repeat all night long, filling the gaps by learning more during our breaks. Even then, we knew we had tapped into something special. From there, our love for music only grew stronger. As we developed individually and as a duo, we added the incredibly talented drummer Roman Enriquez to the mix, which took our sound to the next level. Over the years, we’ve performed at venues all over and built some unforgettable memories along the way. While our schedules have gotten busier recently and we’ve slowed down a bit, our love for music is still very much alive. We’re proud of how far we’ve come, and we’re excited to see what the future holds for The Cheeney Brothers! Read more>>

DJ Brown

That goal—to become a Division 1 and eventually a professional athlete—was everything to me. Life, however, has a way of shifting paths. Moving to Mayflower with my mom meant navigating a new town, new people, and a new reality. But people like Stella and Lloyd Lasker Jr, the parents of my best friend Trey, made the transition smoother. They embraced me and supported my mother as we built a new life in Arkansas. Sports remained my therapy—my outlet. Read more>>

Carrie Bigford

The COVID Pandemic policies also helped to shine a light on the overreach by Government into our personal and private medical decisions that has been occurring for decades out of the spotlight. With so many bearing witness to the consequences of forced medical procedures like employer mandates and needing to disclose your vaccine status to engage in society, the COVID times also demonstrated the lengths our government was willing to go to coerce us into compliance by silencing any dissenting voices who sought to ask reasonable questions regarding safety and efficacy issues that have now been acknowledged as fact. Read more>>

Karla

When Sophie was around 9, her health began declining. She struggled with obesity, joint issues, poor gut health, and chronic ear infections. We spent hundreds, way beyond what we could afford, at the vet, trying prescription kibble for weight loss, steroid shots for allergies, and so much more. But nothing truly helped. Sophie was struggling, and I felt so sorry for her. I started questioning everything: the medicine, the injections, the costs, and finally, the food we were feeding her. I realized I had no idea what half of the ingredients in her kibble even were. I couldn’t even read or pronounce most of them. That was my wake-up call. Read more>>

Monica Aguilar

As we focus on our community , we can guide them and empower them to walk in their purpose while helping them with their mental health, confidence, self-care, self-love, we will see the wonderful success of each individual walking towards their purpose in this journey.There has been many that we have come across with no hope, lifeless and feeling like committing suicide because they feel like their life is not worth living for anymore. Junie’s Peer Support Group want people to know just three things. YOU ARE NOT ALONE, YOU ARE LOVED AND YOUR LIFE MATTERS! Read more>>

Doris Amstutz

Since I am now in what I call the “fourth quarter” my story is a long one, but I will summarize it into just the Cliff Notes. I started and remain at heart just a small town girl from Northwest Ohio. My journey to Texas took me on a path through Southern California and a century spent in the software industry when Bill Gates was still working out of his garage. During that time, my daughter was on her own journey but chose to settle here in Cypress,Texas. When retirement came the economic differences between California and Texas and the proximity to family made the choice simple.  Read more>>

Reesa Write

My name is Reesa Write. I am a self published author and poet from Boston MA. I have a two-part memoir entitled “Twisted Fate” and two poetry books entitled “Still I Rose” & “You Are Enough”. I also am the founder of “Purposeful Pain Mentoring” a non-profit Mentoring program for at Risk Youth in the inner city of Boston. As a child as young as I can remember around age 10 writing was a huge hobby for me. I am an only child and always had a very big imagination. I spent a lot of time alone and was always trying to keep myself occupied and busy. I would journal a lot, I would write poems, songs, short stories.  Read more>>

Kristi Miller

It has been a roller coaster for sure! This is my first rodeo on opening a retail store front and online website. It has been a ton of learning, asking every question that comes to mind and having a lot of great retailer friends that have helped me along the way! We are still progressing, learning, and trying new things…we have a long way to go, but it has been a lot of fun and so rewarding! Read more>>

Shameitra Green

I then went back to graduate school at the University of Houston Clear Lake in the Family Therapy program, because i had a clear understanding from the early stages of career where it was pivotal work with my clients and their families. That the relational system that surrounds an individual is indicative of their relationship with self and their operational lens of the world. Healing is clearly systemic and I wanted to be mental health professional that understand at all times we are hurt in relationships and we are also healed in relationships, therefore healing can’t happened in isolation even when there’s one person physically present in the room. Read more>>

Sharon

After becoming a parent myself, everything hit harder and I learned to view my student’s parents with more compassion. In my parenting experience, I often found myself repeating patterns I thought I wouldn’t because I had child development knowledge, but I also faced the guilt, the exhaustion, the questioning — Why am I yelling? Why do I feel so alone? Why does this feel so hard? Why is my child being so difficult? Read more>>

Brittanie Simmons

After nine years at a Melbourne, Florida shipping company, Britt witnessed firsthand the unfair treatment of women in the male-dominated logistics industry. Women handled multiple roles, worked through personal crises, were denied promised commissions, and faced constant broken promises from leadership. Rather than accept the status quo, Simmons absorbed every lesson and skill she could, essentially teaching herself the logistics business when her boss would simply tell her to “figure it out.” Read more>>

Ivan Cazares

In our family, the tradition of baking bread has been present for generations. In our case, it was my grandmother who taught us how to bake. In some parts of Mexico, it is a tradition during Día de Muertos to bake bread all night to “wait” for the loved ones who have passed, and to give bread to children when they go out asking for calaverita (which is the Mexican version of trick-or-treating). Read more>>

Sylvia Wong

In some ways it was smooth, I have met a lot of great people who’ve helped facilitate my journey. As for struggles, they’re probably the struggles that every musician or artist understands; the long hours, the self doubt, the vulnerability of putting yourself out there for others to see/judge. As a performer, the highs are high so the lows can be very low. Read more>>

Kennedy Givens

Oh, this has been the bumpiest road I could ever imagine. Not a lot of people take the time out to think about the mental turmoil that comes from being a model or being in this industry. A pound or a pimple could cost you your job, I have witnessed this happen firsthand. Being told about these ‘flaws’ frequently and often to your face is debilitating. This doesn’t even cover the envious feelings that may come up when witnessing others receiving recognition before you. We are constantly being compared to others, it is difficult to maintain a positive attitude towards the industry and even ourselves at times. Read more>>

Ethan Clemons

To be honest, I was uneasy at first. Weddings felt serious — sacred even. They weren’t just gigs; they were milestones. Once-in-a-lifetime moments. I didn’t know if I was ready to carry that kind of weight, but I challenged myself. I wanted to prove that I could rise to the occasion — that I could take something meaningful and give it the care it deserved. Read more>>

Andrew Palmisan

I moved over from Ireland, first to Pennsylvania and then made my way here to Texas. I’ve always drawn for as long as I can remember. I got my portfolio together and started looking for a shop that I liked and wanted to learn in. I’ve learned from multiple amazing award winning artists during my time there. I have put in a lot of time and pushed myself to learn how to get the look I wanted to achieve as an artist. Of course you’re never done learning! Fast forward 5 years and I decided to open up this studio on my own. Read more>>

Amber Jinkins

No, it has not been smooth sailing. Being an involved parent while working, going back to school and volunteering was stressful at times. However, I had a huge support group of family and friends who helped me as well as a very understanding and supportive manager at Continental. I have great time management and organizational skills and these qualities are key to making it all work. I thought I would struggle with finding clients when I went full-time with my own business but thankfully, my friends and family spread the word and I ended up with enough clients to sustain my business with room for growth! Read more>>

Jennifer Vahlbruch

After moving to Kempten in Bavaria, I immersed myself in the dramatic beauty of the Alps. The wide-open landscapes inspired me to explore the emotional depth of nature through the lens. This period shaped the foundation of my photographic work, teaching me to see not just the obvious but also the subtle, often overlooked details in a scene. Read more>>

Texas Lan

Operating a small family plumbing business often presents a unique set of challenges. Beyond the demanding physical labor and unpredictable emergency calls, these businesses frequently grapple with fierce competition from larger corporations, the struggle to attract and retain skilled labor in a tight market, and the constant need to adapt to evolving technologies and regulations. Managing cash flow, marketing effectively on a limited budget, and balancing work-life demands can also prove particularly difficult when the business relies heavily on the expertise and dedication of a few family members. Read more>>

Donovan Hanson

Since then we’ve released another album, (Something New ~ 2022) and have another on the way! We’ve opened up for acts like Warrant, Sick Puppies, Bush, Seether, Papa Roach, The Hu, Lacey Sturm, Saliva and quite a few more. We had the privilege of opening up for Buzzfest in 2022 after winning the Bring on Buzzfest contest hosted by 94.5 The Buzz here in Houston. We’ve also been voted the Best Local Band in Houston” by The Houston Chronicle every year since 2022, and are hoping to nab this year as well! Read more>>

Bhavika Shah

At a crossroads in my career, I took a solo trip to Florence, Italy, to soul search. While sipping cappuccino, journaling in a piazza, and watching children ride a merry-go-round, I reflected on how easy it is to lose touch with joy and our dreams amidst life’s practicality and mundanity. That quiet, reflective moment became a turning point. It planted the seed for what would grow into Chai with Bhav Coaching – a practice that aligns perfectly with my long-held passions: empowering others, feminism, dismantling patriarchy, and supporting mental wellness. Read more>>

Roy Studmire

Music became my outlet first. It was how I expressed myself, how I processed what I was going through. I started producing, songwriting, mixing, self-taught at first, just grinding. I eventually built a name for myself in the music industry, landing placements with major networks like NBC, Netflix, Disney, the NFL, and even producing the first-ever hip-hop song for the U.S. Army. But while doors were opening, I started to feel God calling me to something deeper. Read more>>

Venessa & Kirstan Hawkins

My husband and I both grew up in Houston. We’ve now been married for 13 years and have four amazing children. I graduated from Prairie View A\&M with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, and my husband pursued a career in firefighting and EMT. While working full-time in our respective careers, we also started catering on the side — something we’ve been doing for the past 13 years. About two years ago, we took a leap of faith and bought a food truck. It was a big move, but it allowed us to bring our food directly to the community in a more personal way. Read more>>

Antwanette Weaver

As I look back, becoming a teen mom was the pinnacle of the turning point of my life. Entering parenthood at the age of 16 presented its own challenges, but there were also many other obstacles that surfaced thereafter. While working to achieve my career goals, I balanced being in an unhealthy marriage (I married my son’s father at the age of 18), working a full-time job, pursuing my education, striving to properly care for two children (I gave birth to my daughter when I was 20 years old), and managing my own mental health concerns.  Read more>>

Cholpon Bektashova

There were days I felt lost. I remember walking into rooms where I didn’t understand half the conversation but still showed up, smiled, and took notes. I constantly doubted if I was doing the right thing. But I kept learning — books, podcasts, even binge-watching Netflix to improve my English and pick up on cultural nuances. Read more>>

Regina Jazz

Absolutely. I started singing at a young age—gospel music was my foundation, and it taught me the power of emotion and connection. Over time, I gravitated toward jazz and soul because of the freedom they offer to tell stories with depth and nuance. I’ve spent years refining my voice and performance style, blending the spiritual roots I came from with the elegance and improvisation of jazz. Read more>>

Monis Tatum

Its’s so easy to give up and throw something away but it’s take hard work and dedication to build something you really want ! Read more>>

Tino Alcoser

Again, I made those talents known in high school around my junior or senior year. Fast forward to the beginning of my freshman year of college, I went viral on Vine for silly clip, and then used that to propel my music and build a fan base. Vine died, and I eventually rebranded from a very juvenile stage name to what’s now, Uncle Tino. I since then have had to rebuild a fanbase, which sucks losing fans in the ether, but it was necessary to resume my career with a new name. Since then I’ve been performing, recording, and learning every time I face a microphone. My roots are in rap, but I’m definitely trying to sing more in this current phase of my career. Read more>>

Jasmin Williams

My journey began in 2021 during a challenging period when I was navigating depression. During this time, journaling became my lifeline, helping me process my emotions and find clarity. I realized how powerful writing could be for self-discovery and emotional well-being, but I struggled to find journals that resonated with my values of mindfulness and sustainability. Read more>>

Amy Reynolds

As a child growing up in a rural setting in SW Pennsylvania before the onset of technology and social media, I read as a way to pass time and entertain myself. I have always felt the magic of the middle grade fantasy genre and as a child going into those worlds was fantastical. As a writer, the genre of children’s picture books is my favorite. I think they are really important and I enjoy offering stories that contain humor but also themes that maybe aren’t addressed in school. Read more>>

Brenna Gabaldon

I enrolled in training courses. I practiced on mannequins. I borrowed product from mentors and bribed my friends. I started injecting after hours, in their living rooms and kitchens—explaining every step, answering every question, never rushing. I started an LLC and partnered with a med spa compliance company. Word spread. I showed up with my medical bag, clean gloves, a portable ring light, and a quiet confidence Read more>>

Htown Mexicano Misery

Not only that but also getting criticized by people who look like you back then in middle school was a challenge all by itself specially since my first language was Spanish and looked down upon for not speaking Spanish is a struggle all by itself and is what led me into the gang life in many ways Nowadays everybody wants to be mexican so I say I was cool before everybody else lol I’ve always been the Htown Mexicano. Read more>>

Sonya Ware

I have developed my authentic self, knowing my good, bad and ugly from strategically running my business, to being a better steward and manager of financials as well as persevering in lean times. Ironically, the pandemic was my most prosperous year. It makes sense given the spiritual, and social awakening, many people were thrust into. And being able to work virtually also helped with that…I am especially proud of a virtual conference where I presented in full spirit and truth and many lives were impacted. Listen here https://youtu.be/LdNE7qcLyYc?si=88-qB5iBtbpJYNBB Read more>>

Chase Babcock

As a kid, I had a lot of time on my hands, and with that time, I got into a lot of mischief. When I started at my new high school, I struggled to fit in. I carried myself differently than most of the other kids. I was quiet, kept to myself, and listened to a lot of Houston rap. I hung out with whoever I wanted, no matter what group they were from. But because of that, a lot of kids—and even teachers—didn’t understand me. Truthfully, I didn’t let people in. I became a loner. Read more>>

Rajane’ White

My coffee cart didn’t fit the equipment I had custom ordered for the cutouts, so I had to rethink my entire setup. My espresso machine was delayed, which pushed back my launch timeline. Funding everything I envisioned for the cart has also been a hurdle—I’ve had to pace myself and prioritize what’s essential for now. And one of the most unexpected twists? I had to figure out how to plumb my espresso machine myself with zero prior experience. But honestly, every setback has taught me something and made me even more determined to build Sakred into something special. Read more>>

Emma Monk

I just got my feet beneath me as a new business owner and the whole thing came to a screeching halt. Trying to figure out how to keep my clients engaged and interested in coming back was difficult. Thank goodness they were just as eager as I was to return to normal life! That was the biggest struggle I have had to face since becoming a business owner. I’m sure there will be bumpy roads ahead but I am more than prepared to face them head-on. Read more>>

Sunnie Ray Diab

Born from Sunnie’s love of thrifting, reselling, and giving back, Rewind.ave is a nonprofit thrift movement dedicated to rewinding the damage caused by fast fashion and creating sustainable solutions for fashion, community care, and second chances. Read more>>

Walter Mendoza

Then, the pandemic started, and we were locked down. I began uploading trend videos, but it was normal; nothing was happening. I was doing it for fun. After the pandemic ended, my growing social media platform was Instagram. I noticed that people were saving and sharing my photos. My brother told me, why don’t you make videos of your trips instead? I started, and people began to like them. Although I’m not a full-time content creator, I always try to consistently post on my social media about my travels in Honduras and also abroad.  Read more>>

Melita Estime

There were definitely quite a few obstacles along the way. One of the biggest was time trying to balance being a new mom, showing up full-time at my 9-5, and still pouring energy into building a business from scratch. There were many late nights, moments of exhaustion, and times I questioned if I could really do it all. But I stayed focused on my “why” which is creating something meaningful for women like me. Read more>>

Jesus Andros

What makes me truly happy is creating whether that’s modeling, making music, or just expressing myself through my art and style. When I create, I feel like I’m showing the world who Jesus Andros really is. It’s a way to be free, to connect with others, and to leave something behind that’s real and meaningful. Happiness for me comes from growth and being true to myself, even when things get tough. That’s why I keep pushing, evolving, and dreaming bigger every day. Read more>>

Ashley Moore

Over time, BBMHBS has grown through strong partnerships, community engagement, and a dedicated team committed to trauma-informed, culturally responsive care. My journey is fueled by the belief that early intervention and connection can truly transform lives, and I remain inspired every day by the resilience of the families and individuals we serve. Read more>>

Logan Thompson

I even go to local shows and make new friends with people who play the opposite of what we do as a way of showing love and support in hopes of getting the same kind of love back! So far the locals I’m friends with are Los Kalaveras, Quinn the brain, Raycheal Winters, Garbage Girlfriend, Shred the deck, Celeste Marie Wilson, 307 Departure, Artificial Fun, and much more! I’m friends with some people from Austin as well! At this point I don’t know what I would be doing if it wasn’t for the local scene knowing it was always hard for me to make new friends everywhere else I go! Especially since I was picked on by so many kids growing up! I go to any local venue in town and it’s like you’re already a part of the community no matter who you are! Read more>>

Eddie Valvaneda

No, it has not been a smooth road. It’s going on three years since I’ve had my official LLC and I have a few clients that I’m working with but still pushing to obtain more. It’s hard to start a business, run it and deal with clients while I’m still working an 8 to 5 job But I’m not giving up. Dinner with clients and delivering them their final product it is a seven day week job nonstop, but I love it. Read more>>

Mark Garcia-Prats

It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but that’s part of the journey. One of the biggest challenges has been introducing this kind of programming to Houston. Bicycle education and programming isn’t something most parents immediately think of when they’re looking for after-school or enrichment activities. There’s a lot of awareness-building involved in helping families see that riding a bike isn’t just a milestone. It’s a powerful tool for building confidence, fitness, independence and community. Read more>>

Jilian Toreè

I currently have over 10 albums released on all streaming platforms. I’ve collaborated with well known LGBTIA+ artists like Siya and Aina Breiyon as well as Houston legends Killa Kyleon and Bambino Ent. Outside of music I run a consulting firm helping companies scale and exit to private equity as well as teaching families in my private community what I’ve learned about personal finance and investing.  Read more>>

Kurchi Basu

As someone who had fostered over 50 dogs in Houston and was already the go-to pet sitter for my friends, I started stepping in to bring friends pups to the big day, handling everything from walks and photos to aisle appearances. It was joyful, meaningful, and clearly needed. That’s when I took part in SURE at the University of Houston (for small businesses), and realized I could turn this spark into a real solution. Read more>>

Sheena Jones

I bought myself a snack cart and said, “We’re not just doing sweets, we’re doing a whole experience.” I launched the Mini Cake Bar, followed by plans for a Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Bar, Candy Fruit Bar, and even a Nacho Bar. I didn’t want to do what everyone else was doing like mini pancake or waffle bars. I needed that Exquisite twist. Something unique. Something that made people say, “Oh wow, I’ve never seen this before.” Read more>>

Nia Ford

I started iBlessFaces Artistry not just to enhance faces, but to help women feel seen, confident, and celebrated—because I know how powerful that transformation can be. What began with weddings and special events evolved into a fuller calling: beauty education. I kept meeting women who had drawers of products but no idea how to use them—or who hadn’t changed their routine in 10+ years and wanted a fresh start. Read more>>

Andrea Peoples

We left feeling like this was it! We had finally found our place. I quickly got to work on our Business Plan and presented it to the bank only to get a NO. This was October of 2021, and we all know that 2020 put a big damper on social event venues. My husband and I are strong Christians and we knew God was telling us this was it. We even had the name of our soon to be venue before we found the property. We had to have the oak trees. A couple of weeks later we found a wonderful banker that believed in us and truly went to bat for us. 11 months later the property was ours. We have been the proud owners of Country Oaks since September of 2021. Read more>>