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.

Mel King | Portrait & Lifestyle Photographer

I am born and raised Colorado native. I was born to a family that was less-than normal. We were all creative in our own ways–I had a grandpa who was a country music singer, an aunt who became famous for her abstract art, and a dad who has become one of the best french-trained chefs in Denver. So needless to say, I was always around art, and the process of creating something beautiful. Read more>>

RoseWood | upcoming rock band from a small lake town

Band RoseWood members: Caleb Wood (lead singer/guitarist), Kasen Johnson (bass/backup vocals), and Mike Hicks (drums) were all raised in the south, Caleb and Kasen were raised in Tennessee and Hicks was raised in Florida but eventually moved to Tennessee. Read more>>

Ellie Rich | Creative Director, Photographer, Model, Designer, Troubleshooter, Content Creator.

While I was born and raised in Ukraine, my creative work, determination and love for photography has taken me all over the world – from the charming alleyways of Europe to the Dubai Desert and the streets of New York. As I look back on my travels, I feel nothing but gratitude for the opportunities I’ve had and the people I’ve met, and for the artistry that has defined my journey. It is through the creation of art that we can make a real difference in the world and leave behind a legacy for generations to come. Read more>>

Carla Spencer | Psychic, Channeler, Counselor, Spiritual Life Coach and Spiritual Teacher

I am from Queens Village, New York City. I was born in my parents’ bedroom. My father delivered me on April 8,1989. Yes, my father, a carpenter and my mother a high school teacher did not believe in the hospital delivery service, so they decided to have home births. My parents were very rebellious against many things in the system. My six brothers and sisters and I were all raised the same way to be rebellious against the system. Read more>>