We were fortunate to catch up with some brilliant artists, creatives and entrepreneurs from throughout the Houston area and they share the wisdom with us below.

Samantha Jacobs | Diverse Artist

I’ve always been fairly level headed about my finances, even as a little kid. I would save my money to buy whatever it was I wanted at the time. That being said, I don’t have a strict personal budget but I keep an eye on my overall financial health. I know where my credit scores lies and I work towards long term financial goals like retirement. I also keep a detailed log of expenses and profit for my artist income. For larger purchases I do my research on product reviews and testing to make sure I’m buying the best item for my money. Read more>>

Abimbola T. Ayorinde | Founder| CEO | Behavioral Health Professional

My favorite affirmation is from the Holy Quran (Quran 94:5), which states, “Inna ma’al ‘usri yusra” meaning “Verily, with every hardship comes ease.” This verse is a constant reminder that no matter the challenges one faces in life, it will always get better. This verse reminds me that I am not alone. In times of difficulties, I will go to this affirmation for comfort and hope. Read more>>

Jessica Jaimes | Crafter

“Mindset is what separates the best from the rest.” I believe in this 1000000%. Since joining the small business community, I’ve had the privilege of meeting a lot of great people. I’ve been able to make connections and new friendships. Some have taught me valuable life skills, both positive & negative. So I am truly a believer of mindsets differentiating great people from mediocre people. Set & know your goals and only associate yourself with people who are going to help you advance your business forward and/or help you as a person grow in life. Read more>>

Nwamaka Unaka | CEO (Childcare ExtraOrdinaire)

“The idea for Nannyland stemmed from a desire to provide families with the opportunity to attend events together without the worry of having to find childcare. Parents shouldn’t face obstacles or miss out on personal or professional opportunities because they have children. Additionally, there is peace of mind that comes from having your children in the next room enjoying a safe and fun time while you attend your adult-only event, compared to leaving them at home with a sitter and worrying about their well-being. Nannyland’s mission is to ensure families can enjoy events together, regardless of the occasion.” Read more>>

Kyrie McAlpin | Actress

As a Christian, putting God first in all that I do. That means praying, reading the Bible, worshipping him, going to church, having respect for him, being patient, and living the way you’re supposed too. Read more>>

Avalon Hogans | Writer, Artist, and Civic Leader

I want to be remembered as a writer, artist, and civic leader who inspires discourse with their work. I use Black history, womanist ideals, and model writers from the Black Arts Movement (US 1965-1975) to bolster most of my poetry and creative writing. I find inspiration from my friends and fellow local artists to support my creative directing style as I organize and curate events to support and give a platform to Black creatives at Rice University and the Houston area. I want my legacy to reflect my work as rhythmic, vivid, and attached to a large audience and larger cause. Read more>>

Adam Trest | Artist & Illustrator

I love this question because it has so many answers. I’m at a place in my career where going to work every day makes me bizarrely happy. I have worked for the last 15 years to pursue a career in the arts, and now that I am finding a rhythm and seeing my work being purchased by collectors all over the country… knowing that my work is hanging in the homes of people who truly enjoy my work, I’m not sure an artist could ask for more than that. Read more>>

Tiana & Claudia Vesce | This business is with my sister and business partner

HONESTY

When we are honest, people are more likely to believe in our words and actions, helping to create stronger bonds and deeper connections.
When you are truthful, you project integrity and ethical character, which are qualities highly regarded in today’s society. You also demonstrate commitment to what you do and want to achieve. Read more>>

Kristine Qassom | Private Chef

When I set out to launch Epicurean Adventure, I made sure it wasn’t just about the food; it had to reflect my values. After much contemplation, two principles stood out: “Quality of Life” and “Conscious Consumption.” Read more>>

Sonal Patel | Licensed Acupuncturist & Herbalist

There are many things that the general public are unaware of when it comes to acupuncture. The most common question I am asked is “do the needles hurt? They do not! Acupuncture needles are made from stainless steel and are almost hair-like thin. Once inserted, you really do not feel anything at all. The second most common question is “what does acupuncture treat?” As a licensed acupuncturist (LAc), we can treat most conditions and this is because we get most of the information we need by looking at your tongue and feeling your pulse. Basically, this means that five people may come in for stress but each one will have a completely different treatment plan. Thirdly, many of my clients are shocked when I tell them that my graduate training was four years long. A Masters in Traditional Chinese Medicine in the US is anywhere from 3-4 years and full-time! We are required to complete 2000 clinical hours and study other branches besides acupuncture such as herbology, tuina massage, energetics (taijiquan & qigong) and Chinese dietary medicine. Read more>>

LaKisha Mosley | Event Curator and Mental Health Disruptor

The most difficult decision I’ve ever made was to share that I had a mental illness. As an entrepreneur, your image is everything. Sometimes what people think of you can make or break your business. Because there is still a lot of stigma and a lack of understanding concerning mental illness, I was afraid that sharing my story would cause people not to want to work with me. I felt my current clients would think I was incompetent and that potential clients would shy away. Read more>>

DeMarcus Bumpers | Film Producer & Actor

Mr. Bumpers most difficult decision was having to choose between his Six Figure Oil Field Career and Acting Career. As the auditioning started to intensify more and more he found himself having to be absent from work as he would have to travel to various States to audition for roles. Read more>>

Joshua Brooks | Audio Engineer / Artist

Baton Rouge, that’s where my roots are. Lost both my folks way too young, though. Rough times, man. But that’s where my sister Tasha stepped up. Strongest woman I know, raised me like her own. Moved us down to Baytown, Texas, and that’s where I truly found my voice. Graduated Baytown Sterling, even went on to college for a bit. Gotta give props to Tasha for pushing me on that, even when music was all I could think about. Since middle school my room was always the studio Read more>>