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.

Melissa Balderas

My journey began as a stay-at-home mom with a passion for fashion. What started as a hobby on Instagram quickly evolved into a platform where I could share my outfits and inspire other mothers. I wanted to create a space where moms could feel connected and confident, showcasing that they can embrace their style without insecurity. Instagram became the perfect tool for fostering this community, allowing me to empower mothers to wear fashionable outfits and celebrate their individuality Read more>>

Denisha Mathews

During our time there, my faith deepened significantly. The church community we found was so diverse and supportive, and it really transformed me. When it was time to move back to the States, I felt a strong pull towards real estate. It’s always been something that interested me. So, I got my license, and then, surprise! Another baby! Balancing a newborn and a new career was definitely a challenge, but I just kept pushing forward. And honestly? God has been so faithful. The clients have just kept coming. Looking back, it’s amazing how life unfolds. From corporate director to globetrotting mom to real estate agent, it’s been a wild, wonderful journey, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.” Read more>>

James Gentry

I came here by way of Atlanta, by way of my hometown, Greensboro North Carolina. Hired as a Cinematographer to help film an Independent Movie for BACKA Media here in Houston. I decided to stay and tap into the culture of the city. Not only a Cinematographer, I’m also an actor, musician, content creator and TV Show producer as well. My mission as a content creator has always been to help provide the community with a platform to help promote positive and constructive experiences, dialogue and discussions through art and media. Read more>>

Karina Ruiz

I was working for an event company in Austin when I first introduced to the decor and floral elements of throwing an event. I began to take more of an interest in the set up component and closely shadowed the event designer, jumping on any instruction I was given. I took note of the meticulous details they were after and the impression all of those combined efforts left on the client. I was enamored and excited by the w0rk. It was touching to see the effect this had on their clients. I would leave an event absolutely exhausted, so very proud of the contribution, and eagerly anticipating the next event. Read more>>

Donyale Jones

Now, three years into my real estate career, I specialize in helping homebuyers—especially first-time buyers and military veterans—navigate the process with confidence. My background in the beauty industry taught me how to connect with people, and I bring that same personalized approach to real estate. Whether I’m helping a client find their dream home or educating them about the market, my goal is always to provide clarity and exceptional service. Read more>>

Caitlyn Maloy

I look at my role as acting as a partner to you more than anything. I’m here to help you navigate one of the most significant experiences you’ll ever encounter: buying or selling the place you call home. That’s no small feat! Having spent the better part of two years on a top Compass Houston team, my knowledge of the space and the resources I bring are vast and valuable. I work with the some of the best and most trusted tradesmen in the city – from contractors to inspectors to lenders. I sit on an all-female team with nine other knowledgable and savvy agents who mutually lend their expertise on any one deal the team is involved in. So you work with me, but you get nine other brains! Read more>>

Christian Men In Business

Christian Men In Business is a non-profit organization in the state of Texas. Our mission is businessmen that network to grow their spiritual & business life with Jesus Christ. Our organization stands firmly in the word found in Matthew 6:33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. When we seek Gods kingdom in prayer and ask the Holy Spirit for guidance us businessmen shall see the fruits of our labor that includes our entrepreneur journey. Not only we want to grow but also support our community by doing out reaches and mission trips to give back to the need. Read more>>

Sháni Pope

My love for media started at a young age. I would stare at the electronics part of magazines, looking at ALL of the video cameras and praying my mother would purchase the one I circled. She never did but as I got older, my interests in videography, photography, and editing grew. I went on to study Mass Communications, with a focus in Television Production at Virginia State University. I joined the Mass Communications Club and started working in my department. That’s when doors started opening. By my sophomore year, I created Marvelous Pope Productions. Read more>>

Nicole Puentes

Sure! My journey into ultrasound started at Del Mar College, where I graduated top of my class in Diagnostic Medical Sonography in 2015. I moved to Houston almost immediately after and hit the ground running—within just a couple of weeks, I was working full time and diving headfirst into the field I love. Over the next decade, I gained experience in both hospital and private office settings, covering everything from general and vascular studies to OB/GYN. I’ve always been passionate about the diagnostic side of sonography—it’s truly where my heart is. Read more>>

Laura

By mid-2021, the business was gaining traction and growing. We received so much support from friends, neighbors, and the community. However, just as things were falling into place, I faced an unexpected challenge: my dad was diagnosed with cancer. As an only child, I couldn’t leave him. So, my husband and I made the difficult decision to sell our house and move 6 hours away to be closer to him. During this time, I juggled caring for my newborn, my 5-year-old, my dad’s health, and running the business. Despite the emotional toll, I kept working, answering calls, and staying on top of my tasks, even if it meant doing so from hospital lobbies or the ICU floor. Read more>>

Mateo

When my band was around, we used to play frequently with Lincoln’s band (Zephyr Island) so, upon my departure I made sure to go watch Zephyr to go see my friend and, the idea of collaborating with Lincoln hit me while I watched them play so, I asked him jokingly but to my surprise he said yes. Read more>>

Dustin Mcnutt

My journey into tattooing wasn’t exactly a smooth ride—it had its fair share of bumps. In the beginning, building confidence and learning patience was a struggle. I wanted to be great yesterday, but tattooing had other plans. There were frustrating moments, trial-and-error sessions, and plenty of lessons learned the hard way. But once I started seeing real progress in my work, everything changed. The more I improved, the more things clicked, and that’s when the real fun began. Read more>>

Kesha Spates

My name is Kesha Spates, and I am a proud partner of Chosen Insurance Agency, an independent, virtual life insurance brokerage. My journey into the life insurance and annuity industry began four years ago when I secured a personal life insurance policy outside of my workplace coverage. During that process, a life insurance agent introduced me to the opportunity of becoming an agent myself on a part-time basis. Read more>>

Jerick White

Jerick White, also known as Princeee Jay, is a dynamic entrepreneur, content creator, and multifaceted individual whose journey began in his hometown of Tulsa, Oklahoma. From a young age, He was immersed in the arts, attending a performing arts elementary and high school where he honed his skills in fashion design, art, videography, editing, photography, dance, and theatre. These early experiences laid the foundation for a career that would blend creativity, entrepreneurship, and digital media. Read more>>

Andy Camp

This changed the game for us as Marshall started building almost all of our projects himself. There really is nothing like having autonomy to dream up a space and make it come to life with mistakes, start-overs, repainting after the color didn’t work out, etc. I still document our projects on my instagram and have loved seeing our vision for our home come to life! Making our space our own is something we do outside of our full time jobs and dream of the day we get to do this full time, but are so grateful for where we are now. Read more>>

Vitaliy Nikitin

In 2023, I took a major step forward: I moved to the USA (Houston, Texas) and opened my construction company here – AsVi Group Services LLC. I partnered with other companies, and since then, we’ve completed several infrastructure projects across Texas, South Carolina, and North Carolina. These include installing adiabatic cooling systems for data centers, building modular offices and security structures, and constructing concrete foundations and enclosures for high-performance computing and mining facilities. Read more>>

Edesiri Albert

To be real, it was rough at first. My close friends didn’t get it—some even thought I was just wasting time. But I kept going. I improved my video editing skills, focused on creating relatable content, and slowly, people started catching on. The more people laughed, the more I felt encouraged to keep going—even while juggling my chemical engineering studies as an undergrad. Read more>>

Candace Johnson

Feeling discouraged but still dedicated to my dreams, I continued to do nails it was around July 2024 when my business really took off I quit my Sandwich shop job to pursue nails full-time and when I did that business started booming! I was getting fully booked meeting so many new great people, finding my community on Instagram and TikTok. The struggle and all the challenges I had endured definitely was worth it because I would not be where I am today without them and I’m so glad that I had the strength to believe in myself and my dreams because at the end of the day if you’re not gonna do it no one else will! Read more>>

Teemoney Entertainment

From there, we reached out to more friends who shared our vision and asked them to help promote both the group and the events we hosted. Step by step, the momentum grew. We’ve learned a lot from each event, always striving to make the next one even better and create memorable experiences for the community. Read more>>

Mylan Kennedy

As far as books and movies, sci fi, fantasy, thriller/horror are my favorite genres. Some of my special interest include cosplaying, gaming, analyzing movies , singing, writing, and travel. I love the freedom I have gained through exploring these areas and returning to a childlike mind state of creating for fun in a world that can complicate the simplicity of life. I look forward to continuing this journey and meeting more like minded people along the way. Read more>>

Fontonette Smith

Together, we hosted our very first event, the Elevating Women Networking Mixer, in September 2016. It was a success and served as the launchpad for everything that would come next. Following that event, Tracee was officially selected to serve as the Vice President of Elevating Women Empowerment Group. She quickly proved that she not only shared the vision but was just as passionate about the mission. What started as a social media connection turned into a business relationship, a friendship, and a sisterly bond. Read more>>

Stacie Zollars

My struggle was a lack of experience. As time passed, I started to find my emboldened state and thrive from failures. When I fail more times than one person has tried, it has led to my success. I’m no better than anyone else, however, I do choose where to spend my energy and that’s my superpower. Read more>>

Kimora Woolery

My mom took a leap of faith in sending me to art school, amidst many other paths, and I truly believe I am who I am today because she saw that spark in me and nurtured it. My brother also played a huge role by giving me the chance to create my very first music video, which opened my eyes to a whole new world of possibilities. These moments, these decisions, have shaped me into who I am now. Read more>>

Derhiava Gibson

My name is Derhiava Gibson. I am currently a 8th grade ELA Teacher.I graduated from PVAMU class of 2018. In 2019, I had Carter Frank with my college sweetheart . As a 1st time mom everything started off rocky . I was adjusting from a three person household to a two person household. Amongst this very permanent and necessary change, I noticed some changes in Carter. He was about nine months at the time. He wasn’t doing simple things that I thought nine month olds should be doing like looking at you when you call his name or noticing that you’re talking to him.So that definitely was starting to kind of sound off my alarm. Read more>>

Alex Mounir

Between 2024 and 2025, I booked four film co-stars, a national commercial for Fox Sports, multiple print jobs for Lululemon and Hey Dude, and two lead roles in films. Shortly after that I signed a contract with Bankston Talent, who represents me theatrically for TV/Film. Handing the rest to God, and making sure to put Him before my wants and needs every single day. Read more>>

Queenette Okonkwo

Now when I moved to America, I kept cooking. I was cooking from my home, and friends—especially close ones—were always coming around. I started noticing that it wasn’t just casual visits; something about the food was drawing them in. I loved it. I loved entertaining. But on the days I didn’t cook, people would ask, “Why didn’t you make anything today?” “Where’s that jollof?” “Please, next time make that stew again.” The questions kept coming, and that’s when I realized—this was bigger than just cooking. This was a gift. Read more>>

Danielle Beckford

I’ve always loved the creative field- from photography to writing and content creation, the arts are truly my calling. I invested in a professional camera and started TravelbugBecks in 2017. From there I got my now husband, friends and family to help me with photoshoots, I collared with photographers and when solo, used my tripod to capture as much content as I good. My content focused on travel, fashion and food, with a bit of lifestyle sprinkled in between. I started in Barbados where I grew up and continued creating when I moved to Toronto in 2018. I’ve worked with brands in a range of industries, from Skincare & Beauty to Retail, Tourism and Food & Beverage. Recently, I started a Home interiors page (@daniellebeckfordhome), which allows me to tap into my love for home decor and all things diy. Read more>>

Courtney Phillips

My work as a designer seemed to run parallel to life as a mom of two boys and two dogs. Busy with both I wanted my work schedule to fit life’s demands, so in 2019, I opened my own interior design firm. Working on both commercial and residential projects, I’ve had the honor to collaborate with some of the most truly amazing clients and artisans. My approach comes from a blend of formal training and global life experiences, I love incorporating a nurturing sensibility into each project, striking a balance between aesthetics and practicality. My broad experiences and early creative exposure has inspired me to blend client aspirations with innovative design, creating custom interiors that mirror their unique personalities and lifestyles. Read more>>

Saniah Johnson

The challenges I’ve faced have taught me resilience and the importance of community. From managing my time effectively to balancing school, my business, and my personal and social life, any struggles I may face have only strengthened my determination. Thankfully, my support system has made all the difference, allowing me to navigate any challenges I have faced with confidence and grace. Read more>>

Mel Cox

It’s been a bumpy road here and there moving around never really finding a place that felt like home until finally landing in Texas. I immediately felt at home and really never wanted to leave. I’m so glad I came here on a whim for a guest spot. Having a vision of owning your own place to manifesting those thoughts into reality is such a blessing! Read more>>

Danica

I initially thought my size would be a hindrance and my own insecurities were my biggest obstacle in the beginning. After I got over myself, my journey became relatively smooth, with the main challenges arising from interactions with other models and talent. Not everyone approaches the industry with good intentions, particularly when they feel threatened by another’s progress or success. It can be ruthless! Read more>>

Tykeiah Briggs

Flash forward to 2025 He’s given me the courage to slowly jump back into the water of loving my craft. Starting over from scratch with new products, setting boundaries, and remembering the reason I started in the first place. I started because it personally made me feel confident and then I start helping other women feel that same confidence and that’s what it’s all about. Helping woman feel and look their best is the best feeling. The moment of when they look in the mirror and gasp and say “I love them” melts my heart every time. Also networking with other bosses or businesses like influencers, makeup artist, local hair stores, or popup shops to come together in the beauty industry. That’s how I got this interview from a great friend and supporter of my business. You never know who’s talking about you in a room you haven’t even stepped foot in yet! Read more>>

DaLaun Dillard

I didn’t get bit by the “journalism bug” until I got to Central Michigan University. I started out as a Finance major—looking back, I honestly have no idea why I chose something math-related, especially since I’ve NEVER been great at math (the math wasn’t mathing lol). But I had friends who were Broadcast Journalism majors, and their classes always caught my attention. I remember watching the news on my time as a kid and teenager, fascinated by what was happening around the world. It was something I was drawn to, even if I didn’t know it at the time. Read more>>

Udy Idiongette

I officially launched Jolena Events and Weddings almost three years ago, with a clear focus: to redefine excellence in every detail. In the early days, I took on referrals, planned events for free, and treated every opportunity as a chance to build my brand. It wasn’t always easy, but I stayed committed to my vision. Read more>>

Chioma Aladume

I landed my first big girl job as a pediatric dietitian at Texas Children’s Hospital, and then went on to take another job as a Spinal Cord Injury clinical dietitian (which I currently do full time). I’m leaving sooo many details out but all I can say is God! This journey has only been by his everlasting grace let me tell you! I look around sometimes and I’m like wow, we really did it. In the midst of all this I grew a love for nutrition, health and fitness and decided to get certified as a personal trainer. I went on my own weight loss journey where I lost 30 lbs, and built muscle to not only sculpt and shape my physique, but to promote a more healthy me. Through the years I’ve developed a desire to take what I had learned and help other women set up a more solid and holistic foundation for losing fat, ditching yo-yo dieting, and tackling their health. Thus, Dumé Fitness was born. Read more>>

Brandi Davis

I earned my Master Cosmetology license in Georgia and opened my own suite in 2021. After running my suite I chose to step out on faith and pursue a goal that I’ve had on my list for years. I moved to Houston after being a traveling stylist back and forth for a year. It has not been without its. Challenges, but it has proven to be worth it for myself and my kids. now I’m a Licensed Master Cosmetologist in Georgia and Texas. Read more>>

Isaiah Harmison

My adult life has been an exciting rollercoaster. I started my journey out of college in Houston where I became a founding instructor at Barry’s. At the same time, I was personal training high quality performers like business owners, CEO’s, and athletes. I then was given the opportunity to go on Love Island USA season 3 that can be found on Netflix and other platforms. That experience influenced my decision to leave Houston and try out Los Angeles. Read more>>

Whitney Conkling

Then, life took another turn. When COVID hit and my husband and I welcomed our first baby, we decided it was time to move back to Houston after 15 years in the Northeast. I teamed up with my rockstar sister-in-law, Rachel Conkling—one of Houston’s top realtors—and together, we built The Conkling Group, a top-producing team specializing in homes inside and just outside the loop. My family settled in The Heights, where we love the walkability, arts, and food scene. Read more>>

Gabriel Gomez

I’ve had a couple of bumps on the road and I’m sure most people or artists due in their own way, for one I was misled on what I wanted to be as far as in life and the music business. I need more patience and practice when creating a beat or writing down lyrics for the song. For me I just need to dive into it more than I was doing before and go my own way instead of following or having a person control my artistry when I just want to be free with my creativity. Read more>>

Kendall Tyrone-Jenkins

I was surrounded by other artists, received mentorship, exhibited my artwork, and gained a deeper understanding of what it takes to be an artist. To me this was my first big win, that I will cherish forever. Since then, I have exhibited my work at the Brookshire Pattison Library and the Arlington Public Library. After years of practice, research, and encouragement from my mentors, I decided to turn my passion into a business during my final years of college. I have battled with pursuing my artistic abilities as a career, afraid of lacking stability and being a starving artist. Looking back at my experiences has shown me that it is possible for me to pursue what I love. I am learning as I go and embracing this process of becoming an artist and an entrepreneur. Read more>>

Stacy Richardson

The past fourteen years have been marked by my tenure at Dow Chemical Company, where I have continued to grow professionally, embracing challenges and opportunities in a dynamic and innovative environment. In 2023, my son at the age of 14 created what I call the Frankenstein 4-wheeler. He repurposed, reimagined this ATV into something new and exciting. He fabricated, found, and swapped all the parts needed to create something new out of recycled materials. This is where it all started. Read more>>

Mike John

After suffering an injury and going through adversity in my college career I started focusing on different options for life, also having a child at 22 forced me to mature mentally at an early age. I got the opportunity to join the construction union as a pipefitter where I graduated a 5 year trade school program and was a able to work on some historic buildings such as World Trade Center, Laguardia Airport, Hudson yards, George Bush Int Airport etc. Read more>>

Maria Do Carmo

I was born in Venezuela, and my Latin heritage runs deep. Though I was raised in Canada, I grew up with that unmistakable Latin flare—a strong sense of family, passion, and an unshakable work ethic. No matter where life has taken me, my roots have always been a huge part of who I am. That’s why Texas has always felt like a place I could truly call home. The strong Latin presence there is inspiring because it proves that when given the right opportunities and atmosphere, Latinos don’t just survive—we thrive. We break stigmas, shatter generational cycles, and redefine what success looks like. That’s exactly the kind of energy I want to be surrounded by. Read more>>

Larry Bell

From spring tx I moved to Greens point area then ended up on the southwest side of Houston on Westhemier still rapping and doing shows from Texas to new Orleans and dropping projects as consistent as possible.Being on the southwest side of town I’ve ran across artist like Lil O, Sauce Walka, Slim Thug, K-Rino Murder 1 SPC real cool vibe on this side of town I go by the rap name Mocash, I rap and produce my own tracks along with other producers, we make up half of 223 Muzik Tribe. You can look us up on 60+ platforms Worldwide. We have multiple artist T-Smuv, Flip Da Ghost, T-Black we are a family oriented label/Management and a force to be reckon with in this music industry. Read more>>

Maryna Gliebova

At some point, I realized that what mattered most to me wasn’t just creating beautiful images, but telling stories. That’s how I became a family photographer. Some of my clients are families I’ve been photographing every year for over a decade. It’s a beautiful experience — being invited into someone’s life, witnessing their transformations. You see children grow up, new babies being born, pets joining the family, older kids getting married and leaving the nest. Read more>>

Justin Neason

As a teenager, my passion for gaming and content creation began with watching YouTube videos, and playing games like Minecraft on my mother’s broken laptop. As I grew older, I dedicated myself to learning how to edit and produce my own content, using my favorite creators as inspiration. Now, having expanded into the world of live streaming, I continue to push myself as a creator by taking part in challenges, competing for partnerships, and letting my creativity shine through in everything that I do! Read more>>

Rodolfo Martinez

At the beginning, it was mainly to house my own vehicles and to be able to tinker in the evenings. Over the years though, as shop mates departed, I continued adding tools and machinery until Covid happened. I was working on luxury and exotic vehicles at the time. With Covid on the rise, the luxury and exotic car market exploded, and all the cars left out of the dealerships were what I had been working on. Eventually, I found myself with a dream. A dream of being able to run my own performance automotive shop. And since 2020, I have been working everyday to find and achieve my goal of being able to build and work on some of the coolest cars on the planet. Read more>>

Aqil & Zahra Yahya

We immigrated to the U.S. from Pakistan in the 90s with big dreams and very little in hand. After getting married, we started Diamonds Unlimited in 1995. In the beginning, it was just the two of us — working long hours, learning, and building everything from the ground up. There were many challenges along the way, but with patience, hard work, and faith, we kept going. Every success and every setback taught us something and made us stronger. Over the years, we’ve been blessed to grow and earn the trust of our customers. Today, one of the greatest joys for us is seeing our eldest daughter, Fatima, join us in the business and continue what we started all those years ago. It’s a reminder that with dedication and belief, dreams really do come to life. Read more>>