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.

Antonello Arminu | Craftsman, Woodworker

I am from Pattada, a small village in the middle of Sardinia, full of artisans and old crafts, partially forgotten. Including the traditional “resolza”, a handmade knife known worldwide. This is one of the many reasons that led me to choose this path in my life, abandoning the idea of moving abroad – an idea that I took into consideration before starting my brand Rebelles. Read more>>

Hero Talbot | Musician & Singer/Songwriter

I was born in Hell’s Kitchen, New York City, but my family soon after moved to Denver. Growing up, my parents emphasized the importance of creativity over all other aspects. We were always encouraged to write stories, sing, play instruments, act, the list goes on, and it is because of this foundation, and their continued support, that I am able to invest so much time and energy into my music. Read more>>

Hannah Haworth | Textile Designer & Sourcer

I’m originally from Scotland but 10years of my childhood was in a rural and remote part of the Philippines, our family lived with the indigenous Mangyan people of Mindoro island. Growing up in a place where people worked very hard, very close to the earth and the majority of everyday items were handmade was hugely impactful. Read more>>

Lamia Maalouf | Interior Designer

Growing up in a household that revolved around construction and engineering, I realized at the age of five my passion for Design and the Arts. Despite living through the Lebanese civil war, my parents helped promote and foster my artistic side and instilled in me the importance of independence and entrepreneurship. As a next step and to further my education, I followed a dream by moving to Los Angeles to study interior design. Read more>>

Coleen Orr | Custom Hat Maker

I was raised on a ranch in Alberta where life was simple, and resourcefulness was a necessity. We had A large garden, raised a variety of animals. We were pretty self sufficient and fixed many things using parts and pieces that we had lying around. We worked long hours, but our days were well rounded by popping in of neighbors. Guests arrival meant that there was time for a coffee break and homemade treats. Today living in Denver, I am 10 minutes from the grocery store, but old habits die hard. Read more>>

David R Williams | Senior Loan Officer helping people with their home financing needs.

I grew up in a small town outside of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania called Harleysville. It was a town where the only fast food was a Dairy Queen and the Hardware Store morphed into catchall of things from gardening to appliances. There was a local volunteer Fire Department and a number of other small businesses. Read more>>