TV, Movies, and culture in general sometimes paints a narrow, specific image of what success is, but we know from our conversations with some of the best and brightest that success can mean vastly different things to different people.

Slim Hollow | Scream Rap Artist

I honestly think you’ve succeeded in life when you’re happy with the things you do and the people that you surround yourself with a lot of people get the misconception that success is being rich having cars having a big house, but me personally I think success is happiness. Read more>>

Karla Nicosia | Balloons, flowers and event stylist

I define success not just by financial achievement or business growth, but by the joy and fulfillment I feel when I do what I love. Success, for me, is balancing my passion for event styling with my role as a mother, even during difficult times, such as when my daughter was diagnosed with leukemia. I was able to show her resilience by continuing to pursue my dreams while supporting her through her journey. Success also means creating a positive impact on others—whether it’s through crafting unforgettable events or sharing my story to inspire hope. Ultimately, success is living a life aligned with your values, persevering through challenges, and bringing happiness to yourself and those around you. Read more>>

Lauren Wholey | Artist and Software Engineer

My surface level definition of success is to “support myself while being able to do the things I love”. Now if that is truly the meaning of success, I guess I have succeeded. I have a full time job that keeps a roof over my head, and I’m able to paint and create in my free time. But this doesn’t feel like my end all be all. My true definition of success goes further. To truly succeed I want to commit fully to my craft. To be able to say 50 years from now that I did everything I could to make, share, and teach art. Practically this looks like continuing my personal practice of art while also teaching others. Whether teaching means local community classes or teaching as a professor, it is incredibly important to me to share the wonderful journey of creating. I am so adamant about the benefits of art and self expression that inspiring and teaching others is my long term goal. Success means to me means creating a community of inspiration that anyone can access. Read more>>