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.

Alicia Forbes | a wife, mom, and dedicated real estate consultant, a Certified Senior Housing Professional and community educator,

My mother came into a substantial sum of money and turned to me for advice on how to invest it wisely. I promised to explore her options and guide her. But life took an unexpected turn when a man from her past resurfaced, proposing an investment in a fishing boat business. Despite my concerns, her lack of experience in the industry, the risks involved she decided to move forward with the venture. What followed was a heartbreaking spiral. The boat demanded relentless, costly repairs, depleting her savings installment by installment. Read more>>

Eli Brown | Owner/Artisan

I do know for certain, right about the time I think I might throw in the towel the business picks up and shows me we are not over yet. Someone told me a long time ago that you cannot fail until you quit, so I must decide every day that I am not ready to fail yet, and the next day I open the doors again. However, I do think if a business is failing by bleeding your personal accounts dry or getting in the way of your relationship with your family it might be a great time to re-evaluate. But, if it’s just a matter of low self esteem, lack of determination, or fortitude… keep going, Never Give Up The Ship! Read more>>

Phoebe Le | Lash & Brows Expert , Training

“No Death, No Fear” by Thich Nhat Hanh has profoundly shaped my perspective. It teaches that life and death are natural cycles. Overcoming the fear of death, failure, or embarrassment unlocks new opportunities and allows us to live fully. It encourages me to be brave, dream big, and embrace failure-because, in the end, nothing else really matters. Read more>>

Kevin Meyer | Owner of Soccer Stars McKinney

Legacy is something many talk about but few truly grasp. If we’re being honest with ourselves, we’ve all imagined what people would speak about us when we’re gone. But few realize that legacy isn’t granted at birth or magically established when we die. Your legacy is determined by every decision you make on a daily basis. It’s no secret that some days, we don’t want to be doing what it is we’re doing. Some days we’re tired. Other days, we lack motivation. Sometimes, life throws a curve ball at you and attempts to throw you off course. But each day is an opportunity to either build up or break down our legacy. Growth doesn’t always mean winning; often, it means facing failure, learning from it, and pushing forward. Acknowledge that failure is a powerful teacher. Learn from your mistakes. Course correct and keep your eye on the prize. Read more>>

Alexander Mars | Hairstylist

The satisfaction of the customers is my happiness. As a beauty salon to see customer love themselves and confidence walking out the door is my satisfaction. Being pretty is always the starting of the good change. Read more>>

Mkali Bailey | Certified Balloon Artist

What makes me happy is seeing anyone’s creativity come to life and bring joy to others. The ability to create something unique and memorable fills me with purpose. Knowing that my efforts inspire smiles is what truly fuels my happiness. Read more>>

Glinda Howard | Healt & Wellness Ambassordor

My integrity ! I was taught to always be honest and have respect for myself and others ! Live my life on purpose with a purpose Read more>>

Riya Erasani | Student / Vice President of DGB

In response to “What value or principle matters most to you? Why?” I would say kindness and giving back are the principles that guide my actions. As a special needs coach at KineticKids.org, where I’ve worked since October 2022, I’ve seen firsthand how small acts of kindness can have a profound impact. I coach gymnastics and swimming activities tailored to children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), adapting exercises to meet their unique intellectual and physical challenges. Read more>>

Javier Villalobos | Photographer

A lot of the time it’s important to not worry about what others think, and to do the things that make you happy even if other people don’t understand why. Life is short, and every person deserves to find the things that they love in life and to pursue them. Read more>>

Levi Bradford | Creative Dreamer, Entrepreneur, and Music Innovator

Running NAMS and building a music and art community in Frisco was one of the greatest honors of my young adult life. NAMS provided me with the freedom to dream, create, and imagine without limits—a true treasure for the artistic mind. It sparked enthusiasm, connected me with people from all walks of life, and gave me a platform to inspire growth in others. Music, in its classlessness, was a bridge. Through it, I connected with the wealthiest and the humblest, finding meaning in every interaction. Read more>>

Jofonz Govan | Director & Founder of Styled For Success Youth Foundation

I have a couple.. I’d say authenticity and integrity. I consider myself a very genuine and thoughtful person in everything I do.. In my humble opinion when you are authentic and have integrity you understand your value and won’t compromise your morality. Read more>>