We asked some of the happiest folks we know to tell us their secret.

Jacqueline Wong | Freelance Portrait Photographer & Aspiring Graphic Designer

Being in a hustle and bustle environment. Learning about other perspectives and being on the constant run learning about what’s out there. Being comfortable but not too comfortable. Being able to pursue my interests while having the surrounding of great friends keeps me going despite whatever tries to bring me down. Read more>>

Susan Jackson

Although, happiness is based on a particular happening or event in your life, the bible says that the joy of the Lord is my strength. So, what brings Susan Jackson joy? Working in a position where my gifts and talents are being utilized. As You Can Coordinator at Friends of North Richmond, I am afforded the opportunity to transform lives which is our mission. Our mission is to empower by strengthening lives through spiritual growth, education, revitalization, and basic needs. I have been given an assignment to make decisions in my position that positively impact the lives of others as well as my community. I impart into those around me and encourage people to grow beyond where they are. Transforming and renewing the mind of people so that they can see themselves through the eyes of God. Read more>>

Jonathan West | Chef, Educator & Recipe Developer

Teaching people how to make good food makes me happy. Not everyone can afford to dine at nice restaurants, but that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be able to eat well. It can be extremely empowering for a person to learn how to make bread or cook a vegetable using a new technique. This power gives individuals confidence in themselves and opens up a whole new realm of creativity. Showing people that they don’t need to rely on restaurants or processed foods is one of the best ways to buck the system–and I’m all for that. Read more>>