Through our work we have had the good fortune of seeing firsthand how success comes in every shape, size, color, faith, and orientation. More importantly we’ve learned that success is often the result of people embracing their unique backgrounds and so we’ve asked the community to tell us about their background and how it has impacted where they are today.

Shannon Sionna | Singer, Songwriter & Actress.

I am from San Antonio, Texas. My father is a singer and my mother is a dancer. My father introduced me to r&b/funk songs while my mom showed me the Oldies, Tejano, and Motown. Both of my parents have had a huge impact on my music inspiration and career. IT is because of their support that I have been able to last this long in the industry. Read more>>

Tatiana Hall | Social Justice Advocate through Homeownership and Education

I may be the proudest native Houstonian you’ll ever meet. No matter where I go, I am always repping H-Town! I love every detail of my city’s culture, and it’s been so inspiring to see the impact that my hometown has had on pop culture today. Though, born and raised on the south east side of the city, I mostly attended schools in Missouri City and Fort Bend ISD. Attending schools beyond my neighborhood inadvertently taught me that my zip code does not define me, rather, my actions make me who I am. Read more>>

Jesus Jesse” Ramirez | Public Insurance Adjuster

I am from the Rio Grande Valley in South Texas. I grew up as a migrant. My family would travel to other states to clean fields or pick cotton or fruits and vegetables. Growing up in that environment showed me the struggles that a lot of people deal with daily. I never knew how to help, then again, I wasn’t in a position to help anyone either. Around the age of 15 I started working in construction with my uncle. We started doing residential work for a few good years. Later on, we started working on commercial buildings. Then when I was 18 hurricane Katrina hit Louisiana. Read more>>

Ronnetta Spencer | Musician

Hi I’m from Houston Tx, I was brought up around music and that’s pretty much all I know and ever known. I grew up in the house with a musical legend, and I was able to watch him perform go on tour with him and witness some of the greatest To ever do it and in return it molded to me to become great at every thing in my artistic career. Read more>>

Karena Peters | Fitness Enthusiast & Personal Trainer

I was born and raised right here in Houston, TX. My parents divorced when I was ten, leaving my Mother to raise two young girls on her own. It wasn’t the easiest and the struggles were definitely real. I would watch my Mom work her butt off day after day to take care of us, making sure we were good, sometimes leaving herself without. Growing up I was taught responsibility early on. Once my sister and I were old, we had to do our part to pitch in. At the ages of 15 and 16 years old, we had our first jobs, working to help Mom out. Read more>>

Dan Austin | Event Curator & Lifestyle Specialist

I was born and raised in Detroit Michigan. Being from Detroit, we are taught at a young age the amount of hustle you have will determine how successful you are. It’s about determination, grit and rising above ones failures. So, I had no choice but to get out here and make a name for myself with the talents God has gifted within me. Most importantly, I want to ensure my children are born into a position to never lack or need for anything. For this reason, I’ve built my brand on character, respect and humility. The goal has always been to inspire others from a young age to pursue their passion, treat others with respect and never overlook the ones who helped you gain success. Read more>>

Modupe Ariel | Certified Herbalist & Urban Healer

Born and raised in the DMV! (District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia) As I like to say, “Bmore raised me, but Africa made me! I am a first generation Nigerian American so naturally, Africa will always be where my heart is. Africa is also my muse for Olade Organics.  Since I can remember, my parents made it a point to teach us the languages of our ancestors, pass down authentic food recipes, and filled our home with music, arts, and clothing celebrating our roots. Read more>>

Zenovia Harvest | Bridal Fashion Stylist & Event Planner

A native of Beaufort, SC; the home of Gullah-Geechee people. Being raised in a home full of culture and traditions helps flourish my creativity, love for fashion, people and planning. I am the oldest of two girls; the first of my family to join and retire from the military as well as obtaining my degrees. Education was imperative to parents and I was determined to make them proud and make it my reality all while serving my country. I graduated from St. Leo University with my BA in Human and from Norfolk State University with honors in MBA-Urban Education & Community Counseling. Read more>>