Where you grew up and your background can often have surprising effects on our lives and careers. We’ve asked folks from the community to tell us about how their background has affected them.

Najia Omer | Artist

I’m from the city of Karachi in Pakistan. As an adult, parent and artist, I’ve been hugely shaped by my background and the culture I grew up with. In my culture there is a lot of importance given to family, and that is what I practice in my home and with my children. I have grown up with the immigrant mindset, which pushes me to be better and do better on a daily basis. Read more>>

Estevan The God | Rap Artist

’m from Houston, TX born & raised. During my childhood I was always around Houston culture the Screw Music, Candy Painted Cars, Jewelry, Car Shows. I come from a family full Entrepreneurs, Rappers, Designers & Entertainers and it really had a heavy impact on everything I do today. Even the title of my 6th Studio Album is H-TOWN PRINCE because of that heavy influence. Read more>>

Roxi Victorian | Choreographer. Educator. Scholar

I am an only child from Washington, DC. I am the daughter of an educator and Public Relations and Civil Rights pioneer. Growing up in the political. Center of the country in Washington DC, and watching my parents work diligently to advocate for racial equity in multiple areas of. my community had a huge impact on the types of offerings I share with my community through my professional engagements. Read more>>

Kimberly Franke | Case Manager & Entrepreneur

I grew up in the small town of Stoughton Wisconsin. When I was 14 I started working at a local restaurant/bar that was on the lake where I lived. It was a family owned business and I had the opportunity to learn various jobs in the hospitality business. Read more>>