Even if you are from the same neighborhood as someone else, you might still be coming from different places. Where you are from is a complicated question and it elicits complicated, but interesting and thought-provoking responses. We’ve shared some of those responses below.

Beatriz (Bea) Aguirre-Strong | Owner of Tramites Transactions, LLC

I grew up in Taos, New Mexico (yay! Taos Ski Valley–although my family did not ski!). Before that I was a young child immigrant from Mexico brought to the US by my parents when I was under a year old. I eventually became a permanent resident (green card holder) then a naturalized citizen of this great country. Although I did not speak English when I started elementary school in Taos, I was determined to learn and excel (I didn’t want anyone to think I was dumb because I did not speak English well). Read more>>

Craig Tomanini | Founder & CEO of ASKCRAIGTEE, Inc / The Technology Business Coach™

I am originally from Worcester, Mass. I grew up in a fairly large city in a mostly Italian culture based neighborhood. I was raised by a single mother who worked at least 2 jobs at any given time sometimes 3 in order to make ends meet. My mother and I had an incredible relationship and she was a huge impact to me becoming the person I am now regarding character and business. I use the past tense when speaking about her as she lost her battle with Cancer in 2014. Read more>>

Joe Phillips | Owner and Entrepreneur

I was born and raised in Miami and grew up in a multi ethnic household, with my mom being Japanese and French and my dad being Bahamian. I can’t lie my love for food was probably ignited the first time I tried something solid, but watching my dad really pour his love into the meals he prepared really helped that flame grow. My dad used his food to not only feed customers at his restaurant but he used it to bring our community together, which was so much more important. Read more>>

ANDRÉS LHIMA | INDUSTRIAL DESIGNER

My context has been very important to me, I come from a context very close to popular culture in Mexico, I grew up in popular neighborhoods, often considered slums but with a wide wealth of Mexican culture and customs that continue to accompany me. I studied industrial design at the best school in Mexico, UNAM, and learning about the work of designers like the Campana brothers inspired me and motivated me to analyze and investigate more of my culture and translate it into everyday objects. Read more>>