There are so many factors that affect how our lives turn out, but one of the most interesting is how our backgrounds give us unique strengths and perspectives that affect who we are as adults. We asked rising stars from the community to tell us about their background and upbringing and how they feel it’s impacted who they are today.

Emma Keever | Master in Public Health & Health and Wellness Enthusiast

I am a Colorado native, originally from Fort Collins. Growing up, most of my family has worked within some capacity of science and healthcare and I have had a strong curiosity about these fields as a result. My mom was a 7th grade science teacher for over 20 years, and my twin sister and I would hang out in her classroom after school and read books, watch Planet Earth, she even let us dissect small critters from time to time. I think this is what initially sparked my interest in science, and my dad’s background in graphic design and creative directing also allowed me to explore the creative side of myself. Read more>>

stephen sindon | Executive chef and owner

i was born and raised in New York state, my family owned many different businesses and was in distribution of bananas all around the county and surrounding cities, when i came along. my grandfather, was teaching me to cook, by the time i was 6 years old i was making linguini and clam sauce. I was always drawn to cooking it came naturally. i spent the last 27years perfecting my craft and worked in almost every environment except cruise ships. i have continued on my path and now i have wound up owning a restaurant in a small historic town which has been my dream. Read more>>

Alejandro Moreno-Picazo | Livestock Broker & Butcher

Denvr born in Strasburg raised in the first day I have allowed the country life/suburban American culture involve me from the start. Both parents are Mexican and I’m in Spanish older brother of 5 The impact was tremendous because since I’m the first generation it’s a lot Read more>>

Irina Tamaraova Karen Cohen | CEO & Founder of Happy Hemp and Repose

America has always been a land of opportunity, which is one reason our families immigrated here. Coming from outside of this country, our families fought very hard to be here, so we have a deep, profound love for where we are and being able to get the opportunity to do the things we love to do. Our families fought very hard to come to this country. They came here for opportunities and a better life, and because of that, we feel a deep responsibility to work hard and continue to succeed. Read more>>

Kelly Born | Certified Dog Trainer

I am from Columbus Ohio, born and raised. I have been working in the pet industry since I was in the 8th grade. Started working at my local dog shelter. I am turning 30 this year and still following the same passion with dogs that I shared when I was 8th grade. My ongoing passion for dogs is what gives motivation to my business model. Doing this for the same reason I did since I was 14. The love and care of helping dogs. Read more>>

William Metzger | William J. Metzger, Esq. | Attorney & Record Label Executive

I was born and raised in Shavertown, a small coal-miner’s town in northeastern Pennsylvania. In high school I played saxophone in the Lake Lehman marching band. I started playing guitar and taking lessons when I was in 9th grade. To pay for my guitar lessons, I cashed out my savings bonds that I received for birthdays when I was growing up. Once I graduated high school, I joined the United States Marine Corps. I played guitar in the Marine Corps band and served in Operation Iraqi Freedom. After serving in the Marines, I went on to obtain a recording certificate in Commercial Recording Artist Program from the Musician’s Institute in Hollywood, California. Read more>>