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.

Ericka List | Photographer

I’m originally from Puyallup, Washington. I grew up in nature. My grandma had this amazing cabin in the mountains we used to go to during the summer. She taught me about the different types of trees, berries, mushrooms, and if I was really quiet, we might see deer. Because of her, I appreciate nature more and it’s often one of the subjects in my photography. Read more>>

Finn O’Sullivan | Singer/Songwriter

I grew up in Boulder, Colorado in a house surrounded by music, art, and creativity. My parents always encouraged me to pursue whatever path I was interested in, and I found a passion for music from a really young age. I often get asked why I write songs, or why I chose to pursue music, and my honest answer is because if I didn’t have music and songwriting, I don’t know what else I would be doing with my life. Read more>>

Gary & Ashley Southard | Owners & Operators – The Magic Food Bus

Gary is a Michigander who moved to Colorado in 1997 . From a young age, he witnessed his parents’ unwavering work ethic. His father, a military veteran, sailed the Great Lakes and worked in the shipyards as a skilled machinist. Meanwhile, his mother held various jobs, including shrimp packing, waiting tables, and cleaning offices. Read more>>

The Social System | Overall Artist, MC, Chef, Painter, Writer

I am from Denver, CO. My father and I actually were born at the same hospital downtown at the old Saint Joseph. Not many people these days you and I may know can say the same and its where I shall always identify myself. Home is where the heart is! Background is so important, thru trials and tribulations to all the lifetime lessons you learned from 18-28 are such a time! Read more>>

Caitríona Sherlock | Irish Singer Songwriter

I grew up on a Dairy Farm in the country side of County Monaghan in Ireland. My childhood consisted of playing in the sand pit with my older brother Oisín, running through the forest, feeding the calves and singing songs ‘till the cows came home’. My Mum and Dad truly embodied the old Irish proverb “Mol an óige agus tiocfaidh sí” when raising us. Read more>>