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.
Gregory Monette Jr.
I really got hooked when I partnered with my brother to purchase a 5-acre tract back in Beaumont to do my first land subdivide. We purchased the land back in late 2020, replatted it then sold it to builders and land buyers. I had no idea what I was doing but I learned a ton from the deal and knew that it was something I wanted to continue doing career-wise. I eventually learned about the Master’s of Land and Property Development program at Texas A&M and decided to enroll. Little did I know that enrolling in that program would guide me on a path of becoming a land developer and builder. Read More>>
David G. Daniels
The experiences and memories never leave you. The mental, emotional, and physical abuse at the hands of strangers never leaves you. My personal story mirrors the challenges faced by numerous foster youth who frequently lack the resources or the courage to speak up. I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge my foster parents, Marvin and Geraldine Coleman, and my child advocate, Denise Allen, for their generous contributions of time, talents, and treasures. Their kindness has remained with me and propelled me through my darkest times to my now-brightest moments. Read More>>
Rachel B*tchface
Definitely not! When I started out, I had a big social anxiety problem which did not translate well to others. Succeeding in drag means having good standing and relationships with other queens. It took me a few years to come out of my shell enough to be able to show others my true self. Drag has really helped me overcome my introverted qualities and breakout of that “I don’t know how to talk to people” mold. When I’m in drag, I am more confident to say anything to anyone which is very liberating. What I am working on right now is being able to access that same power when I am out of drag. Read More>>
Ava Mickhail
Autumn was constantly booking and it was time for us to bring more models in. I also started receiving requests for Sarah Walla. Sarah also believed in me and when she came to Vibe Models, she also brought her own set of clients with her. We are currently published in various magazines, have been on different news platforms, fashion shows and published shoots. I never expected to start a modeling agency, however I could not do it without my models, make up artists, and photographers. Read More>>
Rocio Villegas
My art journey started with my grandmother. I became her caretaker when I was around 18 years old. Even though it was a hard role to take, I cherished the time I got to spend with her. When she passed, I had a sort of epiphany that really made me re-evaluate things… Did I want to pursue my dreams or did I want to go the “safer route” with a more stable career? So, I enrolled in Art school and 4 years later I earned my degree in 2009. Read More>>
John Kelley
JD’s Mobile DJ Services grew steadily, and by 2016-2017, I’d brought on a business partner. Together, we scaled the operation—two trailers, three sound systems, and a team of DJs to handle multiple events. I loved every part of it, from the setup to the last song of the night, seeing the energy and joy we brought to people’s celebrations. But then 2020 hit, and with the pandemic came an abrupt halt to events. We had to make tough decisions, ultimately selling off all our equipment as it became clear that the industry wouldn’t recover anytime soon. Read More>>
Brandon Prince
In the midst of these challenges, Hope for Youth Houston provided Brandon with a lifeline. Through the organization, he found a safe space to grow and experience the support and mentorship he desperately needed. Hope for Youth’s long-term Christian mentorship, college and career readiness programs, and opportunities for growth through summer camps, retreats, weekly mentorship, and educational field trips became instrumental in shaping his character and ambition. These experiences not only allowed him to dream of a brighter future but also instilled a sense of belonging and hope that was otherwise absent in his young life. Read More>>
Maximus Gayden
The brand was made about a year ago in 2023. I was coming up with the name and everything while still playing football at Texas Southern. I walked away from the team when i did my 2nd drop and did 20k over night but since then its been a blast making connections learning more day by day Read More>>
Cymone Nelson
After I graduated from Prairie View A&M University, I started my first job as a hairstylist! After a year of perfecting my skills , and finding my niche, I jumped out on faith and decided to work for myself. On that day, 729 Natural Hair Studio was born! I started out as a mobile stylist with minimal clientele. Now I am a proud , currently, home- based natural hair stylist servicing over 100 clients! Read More>>
Becca And Doug Roses
Douglas is from Portland, Oregon, a city known for its pioneering coffee scene. He has spent his career in the restaurant business, focusing on launching new establishments and overseeing multi-unit operations. His deep understanding of business dynamics and operational excellence has been crucial in creating the backbone of our coffee shop’s operations. He’s passionate about growth and development as well as creating lasting connections through food and beverage. Read More>>
Christine Saenz
Since then, I’ve juggled the demands of a high-stress job while keeping my passion for art alive. This year, right after Hurricane Beryl, I was let go from my consulting position. With the incredible support of my fiancé, I now have the freedom to fully immerse myself in this creative journey and pursue my dream. Read More>>
Nez Guluzade
Once I started to regain my strength, I felt a calling to discover my true purpose. I attended masterclasses and seminars, searching for meaning, until one moment at a seminar with Matthew McConaughey made everything click. I realized that my experiences, the strength I had to build from within, could be a gift to others. I recognized that helping people was something I was born to do, and from that point on, I knew life coaching was my path. Now, I’m grateful to be able to support others on their journeys, understanding intimately what it means to feel lost—and what it takes to find yourself again. Read More>>
Maria Raudales
yes it was a difficult road for ome since i was a stay at home mom who’s only income was from babysitting so i didn’t have much money i only had my kids support not even my own husband supported me he was one of my biggest obsticles. it put a strain in my relationship with him for a while but eventually he gave in and we are doing fine now Read More>>
Dana Harper
Three key life experiences and choices shaped my career path. In middle school, my papa, Samuel Harper, was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer, I often visited and cared for him alongside my nana, which sparked my passion for helping others. This passion deepened when I cared for my grandmother Deloris Milligan after her back surgery, I spent several weeks in the country helping tend to her needs. I initially dreamed of curing cancer in honor of my Papa and helping deliver babies in developing countries (I’ve always had a love for children I started babysitting at an early age). Read More>>
Stephanie Robinson
How do I find the courage to face suffering in my life? How do I find peace in the darkness or cope with overwhelming grief? I pray my story will help you begin to answer these questions. In June of 2019, I was diagnosed with stage 2B breast cancer. I had ten surgeries and eight months of chemo and radiation. My dad died 2 weeks after my first surgery. My sister was diagnosed in the middle of my treatment. By the end of 2020, my husband and I were separated for a bit and my mom died just after Christmas. After all that, cancer returned in July of 2023 as metastatic stage 4. Read More>>
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!!!!!!
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!
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
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.
Catherine | Fit Armadillo
July 28, 2017 at 4:53 pm
Such an honor to share more about my company! Thanks for the feature.
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
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!
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.
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!
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!!
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!
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!
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!
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!
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!
Krystal
April 19, 2019 at 6:21 pm
Thank you so much for the feature! Really meant a lot.
Krystal S. LIttle
@krystalslittle
@yessshair
Sarah Britton
November 29, 2019 at 5:40 pm
We are so honored to be featured in this amazing series. Thank you!
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!
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!!
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
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!