Through our work we have had the good fortune of seeing firsthand how success comes in every shape, size, color, faith, and orientation. More importantly we’ve learned that success is often the result of people embracing their unique backgrounds and so we’ve asked the community to tell us about their background and how it has impacted where they are today.

Bryn Murhy, MA, MFT | Marriage and Family Therapist

Growing up, my parents raised my sister and me to be curious; curious about observing our surroundings, our education, and our relationships with people. My childhood was a combination of art and exploration, and finding ways to express myself through creative outlets and genuine connections–traits that I believe are important in any therapeutic practice. I grew up in a magical home built in the thirties in the Colorado mountains, full of antiques, historical books and artifacts, and a love for music and the performing arts. Read more>>

Nicole Egan | Graphic Designer & Photographer

I’m a New England native originally hailing from central Connecticut. In retrospect, it’s conflicting to reflect and come to terms with the fact that the place you grew up never truly felt like home. I was fortunate enough to have a family that frequently traveled and spent time in the mountains of Vermont/New Hampshire, where I suspect my desire for greater adventures, natural beauty, scale, and grandeur was first planted. Without siblings I was accustomed to spending a good deal of time alone, often letting my imagination take over. Read more>>

Nicholas Brown | Clarinetist & Creative Entrepreneur

I was born and raised in Portland, Maine as a small part of a large family. I have one older brother, Dan, but my parents have 15 siblings between the two of them, leaving Dan and me with almost 50 first cousins! Growing up, we gathered regularly for birthdays, holidays, graduations, weddings – there was no shortage of celebrating. In a relatively small city, it seemed that I was surrounded by relatives everywhere I went. Read more>>

David Hochoy | Artistic Director, Dance Kaleidoscope

I am from Trinidad, West Indies. My childhood was full of color, music and rhythm, and I was especially influenced by the Trinidad’s fantastic Carnival. Read more>>

Leaca Young | Artist and Teacher

I’ve lived many places. When I was young my mom would take us on adventures. She would pack art supplies and forget the snacks. Creativity was so important to her. It was how you expressed yourself to the world. My husband and I had spent most of our lives in Wyoming. In 2005, we moved our young family to a village in Alaska. Seeing so many new things opened up my creative mind. Zooming in to the textures and colors of nature. I was so inspired to create. We had less distractions living off the road system. More time to create. Read more>>

RJ Garma | Engineer and Aspiring Photographer

My family immigrated from the Philippines when I was five. I grew up in Salem, OR and what I remember most from my childhood is how hard my parents worked to make ends meet. From the long hours, to studying nights, and Thanksgivings spent at a good friend’s house when my parents had to work – I will always cherish these memories because they serve as reminders of the sacrifices they made for me and my sister. I’ve always had an interest in art, but my ambitions and love for engineering eventually led me to the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs. Read more>>

Karolina Naumowicz | Cosmetologist

I was born in Poland but grew up in Chicago. Growing up in Chicago and being immersed in so much art, music and culture really shaped who I am today. You are surrounded by so many talented and creative individuals it’s amazing growing up in the city. From an early age I always knew I wanted to do something creative but I was just so lost. I worked in music for a couple years and it was so much fun but I knew it wasn’t for me.. Read more>>

Tenisha Sanderson | Owner & Insurance Agent

I’m originally from California and visit often with family still being there. I became a military brat at 10, living overseas and several states. Eventually, graduating in Georgia and ended up working in insurance right away. Initially processing medical claims, to personal lines insurance within six months. Read more>>

Ben Vargas | Business owner/ brewmaster

I was born in Ann Arbor Michigan and moved around a bit. Ann Arbor is a very liberal town very excepting of people of different walks of life. There I met people who introduced me to coops and vegetarian ism this starting my journey in health and wellness. In the early 90’s my mother introduced me to kombucha and we started brewing it at home long before GT’s. I’ve worked at the original Whole Foods and the flagship store. Read more>>