Portraits of Houston

It’s more important to understand someone than to judge them. We think the first step to understanding someone is asking them the fundamental questions about who they are and how they became the person they are today. Understanding and empathy are essential building blocks for a better, more compassionate world. We’re incredibly fortunate to be able to ask these questions each week through our interview series. Below you’ll find inspiring interviews from in and around Houston.

Diavion Ross

My journey began in 2019, organically growing from initial promotions on Snapchat to a fully realized e-commerce platform, www.theeslaywaybundles.com which I designed and developed myself. This evolution reflects not only the growth of the brand but also my personal dedication to understanding and meeting the evolving needs of my clientele. It’s been an exciting journey of continuous learning and refinement, driven by a deep passion for empowering others to feel their absolute best.” Read more>>

Tamika Cross

What sets me apart? I don’t just deliver babies—I deliver change. From serving on hospital committees to shaping policies that address Black maternal morbidity and mortality, I use my voice to advocate for systemic reform. I also mentor, educate, and uplift future generations of physicians and leaders. Read more>>

Korbin Lawson

As the organization stands today it is what I dreamt it would be, although there’s still a lot of work to do. I feel it’s important to take the time and reflect on how we got here. We been able to secure enough funding to break out of just the classrooms and help more students. Last we spoke We were donating enough school supplies for about 2 classrooms, now with the help of officially being tax exempt, we’re able to donate 100 backpacks filled with school supplies, hire landscaping companies to clean overgrown playgrounds and fields near the schools and organize trash walks that encourage people to pick up trash around the school making it a cleaner and safer environment. Read more>>

Denishia Linton

I let that sewing machine sit in the closet for years. I turned her garage into a store when I was about 22 years old, and I realized my vendor started making errors with my clothing. It became extremely frustrating. While this was happening, different sewing videos were popping up on my timeline on all of my social media accounts. I was confused and tried my best to ignore them but it started to draw my attention. One night at about 1am I was tuned into different sewing videos and I decided to hop out of bed and finally pull out that sewing machine my mom purchased for me when I was 16. Read more>>

Kris Garner

In April of 2024 I earned the opportunity to intern at Lucky Run Studio, where I furthered my knowledge in live music production and analog recording gear. There I was able to fine-tune my knowledge in recording and mixing. And in September 2024 after 4 years in Houston I found new opportunity in New York. Houston was the place of my growth and my craft experience and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I’m grateful to the music scene in the city for everything it has taught me. Read more>>

Brandi Clay

Hello Everyone! I am Dr. Brandi Clay, the founder and director of The EdD Series, LLC, an educational consulting firm, and The Education Dreamer, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving educational experiences for children of color. Since we last connected, I have had the opportunity to develop additional community service projects aimed at enhancing students’ social, emotional, and reading abilities. Read more>>

D’andre Good

The most exciting part of this journey is running into people who really want to support and understand our “WHY” and the need for Urban Goodz in the community. Also, hearing business owners tell us how our platform is making a difference for them and their businesses. We have helped 5 businesses grow from food trucks to brick aned mortars, and have increased our boutique and beauty supply stores to increase their sales by an average of 28% month over month. At its peak, the Urban Goodz platform processed $60K/week in sales. Read more>>

Chloé Jelyse

Hi! My name is Chloé Jelyse! I am a 22 year old entrepreneur who has been in the entrepreneurship game since 2019! I started off as a lash tech ( and still currently am). As many of you know, Covid began shortly after I started offering lash extensions as a service! During Covid, I was wrapping up my senior year of high school when Covid hit, and like everyone else, I was bored out of my MIND! So, fast forward…i have always loved the idea of baking but never truly thought that I, Chloé, would become a baker! Someone gave me this random idea to start selling cake slices – And me being me, feeling like I could sell water to a fish, I was like why not!? An excuse to get out of the house and make money? Definitely didn’t have to tell me twice! Read more>>

Porsche’ Shanell

Over the years in the beauty industry, I’ve seen so many women use external services to mask low self-esteem, convincing themselves it’s self-care when, in reality, it’s just a band-aid. I know this firsthand because I was once in that space myself. That’s why I’ve made it my mission to guide women toward real transformation—helping them get out of their own way and step into the best version of themselves. Read more>>

Tiffany Jackson

What sets me apart even further is the experience I offer through scent. I’m known for not just making your skin feel and look good, but also for creating products with scents that my customers can’t get enough of. It’s all about creating a sensory experience that makes you feel pampered and indulged every time you use my products. From lush body butters to refreshing cleansers, the fragrances are crafted to leave a lasting impression. Read more>>

Deneka Dove

I am DeNeka C. Dove the owner of Touch of Pizzazz Salon, I am loctician and natural haircare specialist. I hear my clients tell me often the reasons they return to me as their stylist, from how I take care of their hair from start to finish, scalp and hair treatments are relaxing, as well as a comfortable space to relax. I have truly enjoyed servicing my clients because I take pride in learning what they like and what they need. We build a strong foundation for many years that includes being involved in their lives and events. Read more>>

Serenity Taylor

As the visionary behind the Southern Elite Creatives Syndicate and a driving force for Southern Elite Creatives – Film Industry “Global” Collective and The Souf Got Sumn to Say (Southern Creatives -Streaming Everywhere), I’ve dedicated my career to amplifying the voices of Southern talent and creating spaces where they can thrive. I firmly believe that the South has a unique, powerful perspective in the industry, and I’m passionate about making sure it’s heard. Read more>>

Ssadia Ahmed

Munaari LLC is a banner with the aim to make it better and bigger with time. Founded Munaari Events & Entertainment in 2019 with the purpose of empowering both men & women. The name Munaari means a unique woman, who thinks apart, act apart, present apart.It does theme fashion shows, photography, deco, MUAH, dress customization and others. It caters only in Houston so far. Read more>>

Dupreea Williams

Over the years, my path has evolved tremendously. When we last spoke, I was deep in the beauty industry with my hair care business. But as I grew, I realized that my true calling wasn’t just about outward beauty—it was about inner healing, self-acceptance, and stepping into your highest self. That realization led me to create Rich Goddess Universe, a sacred community where women can feel safe to heal, grow, and connect with like-minded souls. I also launched Rich Goddess Travel, giving women the opportunity to experience luxury travel while earning and building a lifestyle of freedom. Read more>>

Asija Wiltz

I have Accomplished three published books available at major retailers including Walmart, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble. As a passionate screenwriter, I am currently developing several short films, bringing my storytelling skills and creative vision to the screen. My background in writing and commitment to engaging narratives position me uniquely in the film industry Read more>>

Eli Prasit

What sets me apart is my authenticity and resourcefulness—I’ve built everything from the ground up, using the resources at my disposal to create something meaningful. Whether it’s Queued2Fame, my photography portfolio or my work in marketing, my focus is always on storytelling, community, and pushing culture forward. Read more>>

Yeesan Loh

I checked the interview date and it was April 2020…..we would have been only about a month into COVID lock-down. I remember this very clearly because I had just installed a show in a Brooklyn brewery in March that was due to open in April and run for a month. My artwork ended up being there for almost year! It was a year-long exhibit that nobody saw. Tragically funny. Read more>>

Aisha Taylor

Last year was a rollercoaster of emotions for me. I experienced the loss of four family members, including my grandmother and my aunt, who was the last living immediate family member on my mother’s side and the family’s guiding force. On a brighter note, my son successfully graduated from the police academy. However, my husband underwent significant spinal surgery, which requires a lengthy recovery process. Unfortunately, I was unable to achieve any of my business objectives as they all fell through. I felt like life was slipping away, and I hadn’t made any progress toward fulfilling my purpose. To be honest, I’m not sure I’ve even taken the time to mourn; I had to stay emotionally strong for my family. Read more>>

Erin Hightower

Transitioning back to teaching, specifically as a Pre-K teacher, was a decision I was initially hesitant about, but it turned out to be one of the best choices I’ve made in recent years. One year into this role, I’ve not only grown personally but also professionally. My experiences with classroom engagement have deepened, and I had the incredible opportunity to lead my first speaking engagement, where I shared my insights with fellow teachers. This past year has been filled with challenges and triumphs, but it’s confirmed that my passion for teaching and inspiring others is stronger than ever. Read more>>

Daniel Oni

For those who may not be familiar with my journey, I’m Daniel Oni, the founder of Daniel Oni Media Company, a media production company specializing in creating high-impact video content for businesses, brands, and entrepreneurs. My work focuses on not just making visually stunning content but ensuring that every video serves a strategic purpose—whether it’s for brand storytelling, marketing, or audience engagement. Read more>>

Ulandus Jones

LoveTheProcess Sports our mission is to empower basketball enthusiasts of all skill levels to unlock their full potential, both on and off the court. Through personalized training programs, expert coaching, and a supportive community, we strive to inspire a love for the game, foster growth in skills and confidence, and cultivate a winning mentality in every player we work with. We are committed to helping our clients achieve their goals, surpass their limits, and become the best version of themselves through the transformative power of basketball training Read more>>

Gillian Freede

When we design these in their school colors and add a charm that is usually their mascot. Since the BootSwag took off so tremendously, our next market in Round Top we introduced custom hats! Which now we custom design our very own hats and designs! We custom brand/burn initials on each and every BootSwag as we do hats. We also wholesale our line and have an online wholesale website along with going to wholesale markets 6 x a year! Read more>>

Courtney Harris

For those who may not be familiar with my journey, my name is Courtney Harris, and I initially made my mark in the fashion industry. I’ve always had a passion for design—whether it was through textiles, color theory, or the way structure and function intersect in clothing. Over the years, that passion naturally expanded into interior design, and I’m excited to share that I’ve since launched my own design firm, **CSH Interiors**. Read more>>

Ahmed Elsokary

Over the past few years, we’ve expanded, strengthened our developmental structure, and continued to grow as a leading and prominent soccer academy in our region. But we’re not stopping here. We have even bigger plans, more futures to shape, and dreams to implement as we build a lasting legacy for this organization. More than just a club, Texas Premier is a platform for young athletes to find opportunities, compete at higher levels, and be part of something bigger than themselves. Read more>>

Lakisha Mosley

My journey began with my personal experience of navigating entrepreneurship while managing my own mental health. After becoming a certified mental health coach and advocate, I realized the deep need for more spaces where women could talk openly about their struggles without fear of stigma. That led me to launch Mind Your Business, grow a thriving community, and create impactful events and resources that provide real solutions. Some of my proudest moments include launching my digital product line, hosting powerful mental health events, and collaborating with organizations that believe in this mission. Read more>>

Krystal Aziz

Since our last conversation, my journey has evolved in ways I never could have imagined. Launching Trazel has been an incredible learning experience,mone that has pushed me to wear every hat in the company. Working in a startup means no task is off-limits, and there’s a lot of trial and error involved, especially since I don’t come from a developer background. But I’ve embraced the process, using every resource available (books, YouTube, AI, and industry mentors) to learn and adapt. I truly believe that continuous learning is the key to growth, no matter what field you’re in. Read more>>

Kayla Fadojutimi

I am Kayla Fadojutimi, head and owner of Lash Addicts Houston, formerly known as The Lash Dome. I decided to change my business name for a new and improved logo as well as new and improved services. Although the name has changed, our top priority in beauty has not and it will always be you. I pride myself on being able to connect with my clients and gather thoughts that will help me better serve you. Read more>>

Fontonette Smith

I’m Fontonette Smith, the creative force behind The Lady Eye-Services, where I help entrepreneurs and businesses build strong, professional brand identities. My journey started with a passion for design, organization, and business strategy, and over time, I’ve turned that passion into a service-driven brand that makes starting and growing a business more accessible. Read more>>

Doug Sweet

Doug Sweet Jr., a freelance journalist working in Houston, Texas. When not on assignment, he can be found cooking, teaching photography, writing and podcasting as well as running his film photography group, Pixel x Shutter. After years as fashion and editorial photographer, he switched focus to photojournalism. Doug has been a mainstay in the Houston photography community for well over a decade. Over the years his photography knowledge, and his ability to get people hooked on photography in general has garnered him the nickname “Gateway Doug”. Read more>>

Maria Moreno

’m thrilled to reconnect with Voyage Houston! For those who may not know me, I’m Maria Moreno, a dedicated real estate professional with LPT Realty LLC/Azzur Realty Group, specializing in Houston and the surrounding areas. I hold designations as a Military Relocation Professional (MRP) and a Seller Representative Specialist (SRS), allowing me to better serve a diverse range of clients. Real estate has been my passion for years, and I take great pride in guiding my clients through one of the most significant decisions of their lives—whether they’re buying, selling, or leasing a home. Read More>>

Emeka Dike

In 1998, I decided to dive deeper into my love for music and began working as a studio assistant—what some call a “Studio Rat”—at a prominent studio in Lagos, Nigeria. It was there that I had a transformative encounter with one of Nigeria’s top DJs. Watching him masterfully mix songs and perform tricks on the turntables left me mesmerized and sparked a desire to pursue DJing as a career. Read more>>

Teddy Love

I would like to send a special thanks out to Voyage for having me for almost a 3rd-4th time. Thanks for giving us, the creators and artists, a spotlight. Well, let me reintroduce myself for the first-time readers. I’m Demetrius Hines, aka Teddy Love, and I’m a Houston-based photographer and creative director. I’ve been in photography for a little over 8 years, and I started TeddyLovesVisuals in 2021. It has been a lot of ups and downs, but for the most part, I love it. I try to set myself apart from other photographers by getting to know my client on a personal level and adding my own style to what they’re looking for. I think the best highlight of being a photographer is having the clients eyes light up when they see the pictures. Read more>>

Felicia Shantell

In October of 2024 I encountered a mile stroke. I didn’t notice it at first that it was what it was until I went into the urgent Care. After a CAT scan and informed me that I had a blood clot there was about to rupture a vessel on the right side of my brain. My symptoms were severe instantly I wasn’t able to walk no more than 10 steps my arm wasn’t able to lift no more above my chest and my smile became weak and very dim, But God showed me even within my dark space ,light. Which revealed to me that he is real. In recovery for the past 97 days and counting I walk more with intention I make every moment count because you never know when that day might be your last. Read more>>

Kimberly Powell

My name is Kimberly Powell, I’m the amazing Event Curator of Party Possible Rentals, where I take the stress away from my clients and turn their vision into a beautiful experience through event decor, I’m also the founder of three Women empowerment Facebook groups ENOFF, PMS and WOW, my first memoir 2,426 Days (overcoming the chains of a toxic marriage) comes out late July or early August 2025. I’m also the proud mother of a son, twin girls, and a loving grandmother. Recently divorced, I’ve discovered a newfound strength and clarity that has fueled my personal and professional growth. It’s been one of the best things that could have happened to me, giving me the freedom to rediscover who I am and pursue my passions wholeheartedly. Read more>>

Treva Wygle

In 2023, keeping with the beauty theme, I expanded my business (Plan-it ink) to offer interior design services with Plan-it ink Style. I have always had a creative eye and love decorating and bringing beauty to a space and joy to people. I find custom interior design to be so satisfying allowing me to create meaningful home spaces for people that really speaks to their heart and warms their soul. I believe the home should be a place of comfort where you are surrounded by all the things you love, that create wonderful memories and wrap you with a warm hug every time you enter. Read more>>

Nikisha Reagan

My name is Nikisha Reagan, and I am the CEO and Founder of NR Swanks Freight Brokerage LLC, based in Houston, Texas. Since 2018, I have been deeply immersed in the transportation industry, taking on various roles, including freight broker, trucking company owner, and educator. My current focus is on establishing and nurturing long-lasting relationships with companies that require efficient logistics solutions to transport their products across the United States. Read more>>

Jermaine “dj425” Williams

Since the last conversation things have been moving forward in the right direction. On the dj and entertainment side of things I have been booked consistently and creating memories with the clients that put their trust in me to make their event is special. On business side of things my team and I are still working with the City of Houston, family and friends to provide school supplies for the students in the community, as well as hot meals for Thanksgiving and reaching out to single parents to give assistance for Christmas. Read more>>

Anushree (shree) Mukherjee

hank you Voyage Houston for interviewing me once again. You have interviewed me many times since the year 2020 and I thoroughly enjoy talking you you each and every time you invite me. For your readers’ information, I am an entrepreneur, award-winning author and scriptwriter, Indian classical dancer, singer and a mom of three little boys. My previous interview with you was about the launch of my latest book ‘The Crimson Thread’. The book had a wonderful journey so far – bagging several international awards and being displayed at several prestigious book fairs and author festivals globally. Below is the link from my previous interview: Read more>>

Jennifer Mares

What sets me apart from other realtors is My dedication, concierge services, and the time I make to get to know my clients and establish a long term relationship. I also specialize in High Rises, which is an area of Real Estate that many Realtors are not knowledgeable of. My success in this business has been not seeing clients as another transaction, but as a family and to me, family is worth more than gold. Read more>>

Just Ill

My companies motto is “Always Hungry Never Thirsty”. I started simply as an artist, but I have since expanded to digital designs, logos, custom accessories, and started my own clothing line. My brand is very closely tied to my life and the ones who have similar ambitions of finding the colors in a very black and white world. I’ve faced adversity, and overcame depression, but I learned from that pain and converted it into beautiful works of art. Read more>>

Michelynne Bell

My name is Michelynne Bell, and I am the owner of HRGS and MKK Bell Consulting. We are an HR firm dedicated to assisting organizations globally. Since we last spoke, we’ve hosted several impactful events, developed a dynamic leadership training program titled “Leadership Titanic,” and have continued to support organizations in their growth. Additionally, we’ve had the privilege of helping leaders thrive around the world. Read more>>

Amiee Cacolice

Amiee’s journey has been one of steep learning curves, from developing marketing plans and corporate structures to sourcing equipment and networking. Her dedication to detail and exceptional customer service sets her apart. Whether capturing the perfect professional headshot or showcasing a property’s finest features, Amiee ensures her clients are presented in the best light, offering a professional appearance that leaves a lasting impression. Read more>>

Léne Baggett

I am still in my full time position, and still going strong with LSB Baking Creations. We have 3 kids, a college student, and a 6 & 4 year old. Some weeks are very difficult to balance. 40 hours with my day job, kids with extra curricular activities, a husband with travels part time for work, then up to 12 custom orders in a 3-4 day period. But I make it work. I am the sole kitchen chef, cleaner, & dishwasher, but I couldn’t do it without the support of my husband, our family, and our wonderful neighbors who keep me in business! It is only through their word of mouth that I’ve gotten the work I have, and I am so appreciative of all of it! Read more>>

Brenda Trahan

I’ve always been drawn to the creativity of social media. When the world changed in 2020, I decided to take the plunge and start creating content. Disney was my first focus, and it was so much fun! But then I wanted to explore more of my lifestyle. Carlos, my amazing partner, has been so supportive, and with his impressive videography expertise, we decided to launch our own agency. It’s been such a collaborative and fulfilling experience, and we’re really enjoying the journey of building our business together. Read more>>

Kaylia Capri

My skills were vast in aspects that are more appreciated now as opposed to then. From a young age, I exuded great social skills, A tendency of getting into trouble (the fun kind) and unintentionally creating positive social environments. I’ve never been a down person, despite my harsh childhood. What motivates me is continuing to be positive since that’s harder than just giving up. Which lead me to the Beauty of playing sports! (Literally, like all of them ) Read more>>

Karol Carballo

With a background in business and a natural ability to analyze and solve problems, I wanted a career that combined my skills with my desire to make a meaningful impact. Real estate became that perfect fit. Helping individuals—like the Alvarado-Guzman family, who recently bought their first home in the U.S.—reminds me why I do what I do. There’s something special about guiding people through such a life-changing milestone. Read more>>

Chicoselfie

This project originated in a different band called KMET where Alex Camet was the singer then he started bringing along other Latino musician to colaborate and create the vision and sound we were looking for this is the time where Tomas Volpi came down to Austin from Argentina came in the picture and he started composing and arraigning with Alex , South American sounds combined with Mexican were really leading to the sound we were looking for, that led to the creation of Chicoselfie  Read more>>