Neartown’s Rising Stars

Jackeline Gonzalez

My passion for the law and desire to advocate for justice was ignited at a young age, fourteen years old when I witnessed the power of legal representation in ensuring fairness and equality in society. Growing up, I was inspired by stories of renowned attorneys who made a significant impact on their communities through their legal expertise and unwavering commitment to upholding justice. Read More>>

Tonje

But let’s go back for a minute. The Houston native started acting at a young age, from small feature films to working on Disney, to even moving to LA at the age of 15 by herself to take this dream of hers even further, which then turned into her co-founding/creating one of the world’s first social media music festivals right alongside with her mother called Virtuoso Fest. Before social media predominated, Tonje saw the value in connecting with people all over the world. Read More>>

Shantell Lewis

I have always found a reason to celebrate whether it be a birthday, anniversary, you name it! Bringing people together and creating memorable experiences is what I love the most. My passion for event planning has not only proved to be a great strength of mine but brings a deeper feeling of fulfillment as well. I’ve ALWAYS had the dream of being an entrepreneur! I’ve had a passion for helping others for as long as I can remember! My journey began when I finally decided to take a leap of faith toward the pursuit of what really sets my soul on fire, which was planning events! Read More>>

Samantha Trevino

My name is Samantha Trevino. A Houston, Texas native raised in the city’s northwest region. I was raised by my mother but with two older brothers. In a household dominated by strong male influences, my early years were shaped with tenacity and empathy. Some of my fondest memories are of assisting my father in nursing abandoned animals back to health. Something that helped shape my commitment to living a compassionate and purposeful life. Read More>>

Dalia Moghazy

I have always loved painting and art. Colors and textures fascinated me, and I discovered that expressing myself through art was fun and fulfilling. The pandemic was very challenging, both personally and professionally. As a physician, I was on the front lines, witnessing the struggles and uncertainties faced by so many. During all the chaos, I felt an overwhelming need for a creative outlet.  Read More>>

Veronica Smith

My journey to interior design began far before I even realized. Growing up in the competitive dance world, I always had an affinity for the arts, pageantry, and presentation. I was the “creative one.” My family or friends would ask for advice or assistance toward fashion, hosting, and home design. Read More>>

Stevie Brown

As far back as I can remember I have always loved food in all its forms. I have always loved eating food, watching food being made, and learning about different food and cooking techniques. Then, the other half of my life has been athletics. I grew up playing all sports but excelled in one, football. Read More>>

Lauren Falls

In 2009, my journey as a hair and makeup artist began in Houston, Texas, where I embarked on an exhilarating path within the vibrant world of Indian bridal makeup with a (At the time) new Houston-based company. From the outset, I played a pivotal role in nurturing and getting the company up and going, aiding its growth and establishment.  Read More>>

Mackenzie Foster

The idea for Evelyn James was hatched after both women looked for flower girl dresses for their daughters over the course of several months. The options out there were either cheap and poorly made or beautiful but astronomically expensive for a dress that may only be worn once. Read More>>

Kesha Gilbert

You could say I started my personal wellness journey after suffering from a knee injury. Having my first surgery at ten years old and another more serious surgery my sophomore year in college, I was forced to endure physical therapy and started to understand how movement and healing the body works.  Read More>>

Rebecca Paulsel

When I was 17 years old, a dear family friend had a Golden Retriever that was expecting a litter of puppies. They kindly asked me if I would help welp the litter of ten puppies, to which I happily said yes! I wasn’t supposed to bring a puppy home, but after falling in love with one of them, I brought my sweet Dakota home. Read More>>