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Houston’s Most Inspiring Stories

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.

Meagan Henriquez

The journey has not been easy; there are always challenges along the way. I have invested a lot of money into my online boutique and other side projects in order to pursue my passion. At times, I felt like I was just trying to survive while juggling so many different things. This ended up wearing me out and made me lose my excitement for it all. Eventually, I reached a point where I asked myself, “What am I really doing? Is this bringing me joy, or am I just trying to make it work?” Sometimes, it’s important to take a step back, take a break, and reassess things for a better result. Read More>>

Stacey Pradia

My Mother a cosmetologist and my father the proud owner of Pradia & Son Shoe shine. I made it my mission to learn the entire process. I began my career in Title Insurance in 2003, Received my Real Estate license in 2005. I located and closed on my parents 1st home purchase, they were in their early 70’s.. With my continued education in the finance, real estate and title insurance sector, I have monetized my skill set to help over 10,000 families reach their lifetime goal of Home ownership to create and maintain Wealth principles for their family. Read More>>

Kris Owens

Well I’m Kris 😅 A 35 yr old proudly queer latina woman. I have two boys (16 & 9 yrs old) and a partner of 16 years. I started my company, Feisty Design Co. over 4 years ago after a traumatic experience. I took to my iPad and started drawing designs that felt authentic to me, put them on various items and a lot of people loved my products. After growing a beautiful and amazing customer base that truly feels like family at this point, I kept getting asked “When are you opening up a physical location?” After sharing with my community that it was always a dream of mine to open a physical shop, they gave me the courage to take the leap.  Read More>>

Daniela Vázquez

I’ve always loved the creative side of things—beautiful spaces, houses, and making videos. We were really consistent, but I always stayed behind the scenes. Then he had the idea to make videos about Houston and lifestyle. I started filming him showcasing the city, restaurants, and beautiful places. Read More>>

Eric Ochoa

You have to stay creative and think outside of the box to keep up with the times. Last years problems are not the same as this year’s problems. Maybe your mortgage just shot up an extra $300 a month, maybe groceries have gone up 40% and the cost of feeding the 5 people who depend on you has gone up with it. These are some of the issues impacting everyone, not just small business owners. You have to be able to acknowledge when something isn’t working anymore and intervention is necessary. As business owners, we have to pivot and evolve. Read More>>

Alexus White

I started in 2019 with my old brand name “Cammie’s Hair Collection” & I’ve done a lot of research on extensions, wigs, & what’s so important about it. I took a lot of time & spent a lot of money on finding the right vendor to fulfill my customers needs. Selling hair isn’t easy & you run into a a lot of problems which comes with anything you do. I just thank God for allowing me to be able to experience this journey & learn so much. Thankful for it all & I’m just going to continue to go harder. Read More>>

Tiffany Matula

I’ve been in the hair industry for about 14 years now and i still have a passion for hair. I am a wife to my best friend, and a mother to 3 amazing beautiful children & they are the reason i work my butt off everyday! I live in a small town but my heart is still in the city so i commute a hour to work and back most of my days. I can say it’s honestly a blessing to interact and meet different clients everyday. I love that everyday is different, i am constantly being challenged at my art work with hair and sharing words of wisdom to everyone of my clients. God has blessed me and i will forever be grafted! Read More>>

Cecilia Rodriguez

I have always been a goal-driven individual, relentlessly pursuing growth and excellence in every aspect of my life—personally, academically, and professionally. From a young age, I made a promise to myself: I would one day be my “own boss.” Growing up with inspiring entrepreneurs like my grandfathers and father, I learned the invaluable lessons of hard work, grit, and dedication—the very principles that shape the desire to achieve more and ultimately be the architect of one’s own success. Read More>>

Emma Batte

It has not been a smooth road at all. Creatives in Houston want to pay for everything, except pay the models who are bringing their vision to life. Being a model means you are the missing piece to bring the artwork of the clothing alive. Models breathe life into clothing, and yet we are the ones who are expected to be okay with not getting paid. I completely stopped doing projects (unless it truly benefits my portfolio) unless I am getting the compensation I deserve. I implore all models to do the same, we deserve better. Read More>>

Diamond Nelson

All really exciting things that I’m so grateful for and beyond proud of. I got to where I am today as a signed professional model by sticking to the plan and never giving up. Modeling isn’t all glitz and glam, it has it’s ups and down’s like everything in life. There’s been times I’ve wanted to stop modeling and never do it again but with the support of my mom, family, and friends I stayed the course and stuck with it. I didn’t let a “No’ stop me because no just means next opportunity, there’s always something better along the way as long as you believe. No matter what you might endure or what people may say or think about you don’t let it affect you, cancel out the negatives and always remember your “why”, why you started modeling, why you want to continue etc.  Read More>>

Daniela & Jessica Carvallo & Ochoa

What we cherish most is the joy and excitement we bring to our clients. There’s nothing quite like witnessing someone’s face light up as they see themselves glowing under the blacklight. We go beyond creating art; we create connections and memories. Our commitment to inclusivity, safety, and pushing creative boundaries makes every experience one of a kind. With us, it’s not just body art it’s a celebration of individuality and creativity. Read More>>

Faith Fossett

In the early days I thought I was called to pursue a career as a singer. I grew up in a musical household and we all loved to sing and play instruments, but when I got to college things shifted. As soon as I was launched into studying vocal performance it was clear that my focus would only ever be music. It was assumed I’d become an opera singer, but my heart was not in opera. The opera students I knew were so dedicated and knew exactly where they were going after college. I started to feel like I was politely smiling at a party while awkwardly searching for the exit. I wanted to work with music, but it needed to be in another form. I no longer wanted to hold this sacred, polished object. I sought a connection between music and theatre in a way that would work for me. Read More>>

Mike Lawry Baby

His story alone will motivate you to be greater. Being incarcerated at 17 as well as high school dropout. The kid from Chicago, Englewood Obtained his bachelor’s degree, all while getting his felonies exonerated. Coming across some of Lawry’s social media accounts, he consistently reminds us all to “Inspire Greater In Others”. I’ve noticed being O.Y.D (ObeyYourDreams) is not just about mike, but it’s about all of us. All of us with dreams that dare to manifest them into reality. It’s only a matter of time before the world is introduced to such an amazing talent. I think we should all push to be O.Y.D. So If you haven’t been following @mikelawrybaby you’re losing out. Read More>>

Serg Berroya

I’ve been doing photography since 2015, it started with my aunt when she left her camera at our house and since then I’m in love with taking photos, freezing memories, and making people smile Read More>>

Salumi Charcuterie

I specialize in creating grazing tables for special occasions, such as weddings and corporate events. I’m incredibly proud of this journey because I never imagined myself being my own boss or loving my job so much. Read More>>

Teddy Hamilton

Fast forward to today, and everything changed when my wife became my biggest supporter. She recognized my natural gift for creativity and encouraged me to take the leap of faith I had been hesitating over. With her belief in me as my driving force, I committed myself fully to the craft, spending countless nights and hours studying photography and mastering the art. YouTube became my classroom, and determination became my fuel. Read More>>

Vonne Jones

With entrepreneurship, there are always ups and downs, but I wouldn’t change it for anything. I’m able to practice by my own principles, and take care of patients without having to worry about time restrictions or RVUs. As a business, I still have to generate revenue, but on my own terms. I am looking forward to continuing to push my practice, gain more staff, and focus on clinical trials. I am looking to enroll more minorities in clinical trials to determine what the proper treatments are to utilize for our ethnicity, and create more studies on uterine fibroids to help with regimens to decrease symptomology. Read More>>

Shawn And Lauren Sparks

In 2015, we felt a strong calling to create something meaningful—a wedding venue that would not only celebrate the joy of marriage but also serve as the foundation for a marriage-focused ministry. We started our company and began searching for the perfect property, trusting that God would lead us to the right place. For three years, we prayed, searched, and waited patiently until we found it—an incredible piece of land in Tomball, Texas. That land became Sandlewood Manor. Read More>>

Marlon Simon

Today , Marlon Simon has released 7 internationally acclaimed albums of mostly original work including his lates “On different paths” supported by the Guggenheim foundation fellowship in jazz composition available on all platforms and his web site www.marlonsimon.com. Also a commercial pilot, Marlon said that music became a stronger passion than flying , to the point that he turned down a 150 thousand dollars yearly job as a pilot for the USA custom patrol in El Paso TX, to dedicate the rest of his life to music. I believe music and arts have the power to unite people from any race, origin, label or believe system, something that is lacking in our word today, Read More>>

Jarmal Burton

I was born and Raised in New Orleans, Louisiana. I’ve always been a goofy kid loved to do varies voices. In High School shoutout to John F. Kennedy High School I called Forrest Gump because I could talk like him. Crazy thing is some of my old classmates thought that was my real name LOL… I got into comedy 12 years ago thru my lil cousin Ryan Burton and it took off from there he put me in the position I’m in I’ve been blessed to work with some awesome comedians throughout my career and been able to do a bunch of things throughout this journey. Read More>>

Al Sauls

Raised in a community of artists in Houston’s Third Ward, I witnessed many artistic practices. These distinctive practices inspired my icons and paintings. One of my early teachers was a Greek artist who would paint every Sunday. These paintings were a reference point for his later iconic works. The importance of spirituality, as explained in my artistic narrative, became paramount during my college years. During this time, I reconnected with my Catholic roots and began my journey of creating religious works. Read More>>

Ariel Jackson

Another struggle was figuring out what type of set-up matched my clients vision. I purchased a cart that wasn’t a good fit, built a cart that wasn’t right, and met an amazing friend who brought my vision to life. I’m also still learning how to market. Entrepreneurship is all about learning and growing. Read More>>

Andreina Amado

After a year and a half of being up and running, our objective, as our motto states, is “Send flowers, receive love.” We strive that our customers get to feel the joy and motivation we have throughout our work. Despite being currently a small business, we hope to grow as we learn from our mistakes and expand our services. We wish that by 2025 we can achieve all our goals that push us forward and motivate us to keep growing so we can reach as many people as possible and make them happy through our work. Read More>>

Lacey Walker

Her first major commercial project was CITYCENTRE, followed by working with developers across the country to increase their sales, social media presence and increase revenue across all portfolios in multiple regions. She then left Corporate America in 2018 and obtained her License to begin to help past and future clients with their personal Real Estate goals in selling their home, leases, purchases, new construction, Airbnb renovations and management along with investments. There was another new focus too, she wanted the opportunity to start her family and bring her wealth of knowledge to people. Read More>>

Keanna Palmer

I’ve always enjoyed anything to do with beauty since my adolescence. I would always watch beauty tutorials on YouTube and become so intrigued. I started experimenting with nails when I was about 13 years old. My local Walmart would sell the Beginner’s Kiss Acrylic kit and I purchased one. My first time working with acrylic doing my own nails was a disaster I must say but it wouldn’t have been my last. After my first experience I put off doing nails for about 4 years until I I decided to give it another go since I was older. I would say around the end of 2017 is when I decided to give it another go, I was 19. Read More>>

Shaleen Dove Cuevas

What I didn’t expect was how drastically my skin would react to the change in climate. Coming from a place with four seasons to Houston’s one and a half seasons, my skin wasn’t happy. The intense Houston summer heat was harsh, leading to acne, dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and recurring styes. It was a constant struggle, and nothing seemed to work—no matter how many high-end products or over-the-counter remedies I tried. On top of that, managing vitiligo made it even harder to find the right skincare. Read More>>

Tionne Daniels

When I started, I faced the typical challenges of being a new agent—learning the industry, building a client base, and balancing work with personal life. But through determination, continuous education, and surrounding myself with the right mentors, I began to find my footing. Over time, I discovered my niche in new construction properties, land, and working with developers, which has become a major focus of my career. Read More>>

22 Comments

  1. Sylvia Escontrias

    May 2, 2017 at 9:46 am

    I would like to know how to be considered for Houston most inspiring stories. I would love my story to be featured – I am a breast Cancer survivor just recently an d I was just named WEC’s Busniess professional of 2017!!!!!!

  2. Cori Aston

    June 1, 2017 at 2:39 pm

    Thank you for sharing my story and my art. As an artist we normally sit in the background… and create. We help create the visions, the mood boards and then execute those visions in our minds eye onto the human canvas.
    It’s a never ending journey of the next creation. So, thank you, voyage magazine, for considering me one of Houston’s inspiring stories.

    • Suzanne Bearnth

      June 5, 2017 at 11:58 am

      Congratulations Cori! The story is extremely awesome and well deserving!

  3. Kristen Grandi

    June 15, 2017 at 2:45 pm

    We are so grateful for you guys featuring Junk Hippy!
    We’ll see you July 8 in Rosenberg!

    Peace & lots of love,
    Kristen Grandi

  4. Memory Mill Productions

    July 6, 2017 at 6:20 pm

    Thank you very much for featuring The Memory Mill Productions in Houston’s most inspiring stories!
    We can’t wait to shoot more weddings, document more stories and capture moments that will be cherished forever.

  5. Catherine | Fit Armadillo

    July 28, 2017 at 4:53 pm

    Such an honor to share more about my company! Thanks for the feature.

  6. Dawn Appling, EA

    August 18, 2017 at 3:33 am

    Thank you so much for featuring ProTouch Finance. I am humbled, and really appreciate you taking the time to give me the opportunity to tell the story of our humble beginnings.

    Love and blessings <3

  7. Maria Simon, JustSnickerdoodles

    October 18, 2017 at 12:53 pm

    I am so overjoyed at this amazing opportunity to be featured! Thank you guys so much for shining a light on my little mobile company!

  8. Jo Trizila

    November 17, 2017 at 9:48 pm

    Would love to know how to be in contact with you. We have a great story to tell.

    Through the end of the year, Solis Mammography – the nation’s largest independent provider of breast screening services – presents its “Help Us Help Houston” campaign through its seven locations across the greater Houston region. From now through the end of the year, patients who schedule and complete their annual screening mammogram at Solis Mammography, will also give the gift of restoration and recovery.

    For every mammogram appointment scheduled and completed at any Solis Mammography center in the Houston area between Oct. 23 and Dec. 31, $10 will be donated to the Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund by Solis Mammography and its partners in the effort, HCA Healthcare Gulf Coast Division and Hologic. To signal their participation in the campaign, all patients need to do is use the code “Harvey” when they check-in for their appointment.

    The Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund was established by Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner and Harris County Judge Ed Emmett. The fund is administered by the Greater Houston Community Foundation. Because of the immense need in and around Houston, this fund is dedicated to relieving gaps that are not met by other local and federal efforts for those affected by Hurricane Harvey.

  9. Diana Lombard

    December 13, 2017 at 6:01 pm

    Thank you so much for featuring Diana Lombard Interiors! It was an honor to be included in these stories and share information about my business!

  10. Maria and Ruth

    December 15, 2017 at 2:30 am

    Thank you so much for including boballoons in your most inspiring stories!! It was an honor to share our story and information on our yard balloon business. We love celebrating birthdays!!

  11. Tanya Ivory Mayes

    January 21, 2018 at 9:06 pm

    Thank you for featuring The Ivory Collection in Houston’s most inspiring stories! I am honored and inspired by the other stories as well. Great magazine!

  12. Juan

    June 27, 2018 at 7:29 pm

    Thank you for featuring Blue Elm Photography as Houston’s most inspiring stories! It is truly an honor to be a part of such an outstanding community. Thank you!

  13. L&B Limited Company

    August 8, 2018 at 2:29 pm

    Thank you for featuring two photos of homes from L&B Limited Co. We’re thrilled to be highlighted among other local talents. Being a part of our community is important to us and we love seeing all these rising stars in Houston!

  14. Gusto Graphic Tees

    January 3, 2019 at 3:31 pm

    Thank you so much for this opportunity to tell our story along with so many other amazing people/companies. We truly appreciate you and what you do to promote small businesses!

  15. Carrie

    March 22, 2019 at 11:57 am

    Thank you so much for featuring my blog & Instagram site, @carriebesthetics. I truly appreciate the opportunity & I love what you guys are doing!

  16. Krystal

    April 19, 2019 at 6:21 pm

    Thank you so much for the feature! Really meant a lot.

    Krystal S. LIttle
    @krystalslittle
    @yessshair

  17. Sarah Britton

    November 29, 2019 at 5:40 pm

    We are so honored to be featured in this amazing series. Thank you!

  18. Rima Dawood

    December 19, 2019 at 12:35 am

    It is amazing and awesome to read my own story and feel the excitement again as if I live every moment right now!
    Thank you so much Voyage Houston!

  19. Agnes Belle

    January 12, 2020 at 9:45 pm

    Thank you for featuring Agnes Belle in Vintage Park as one of Houston’s most inspiring stories. We appreciate it!!

  20. Emily

    March 2, 2020 at 4:27 pm

    Thank you for taking the time to reach out and offer a feature. I really appreciate it!
    Emily Cole
    https://www.emilycoleofficial

  21. Determined Solutions

    March 27, 2020 at 2:12 pm

    This is awesome! And this is what we need more of right now. Local businesses supporting locals. We’re going to have to come together to make it through these trying times, but no doubt, Houston will bounce back stronger than ever!

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