The heart of our mission is to find the amazing souls that breathe life into our communities. In the recent weeks, we’ve had the privilege to connect with some incredible artists, creatives, entrepreneurs and rabble rousers and we can’t begin to express how impressed we are with the incredible group below.
Nicole Hodges
But I was fortunate to grow up in Logan, Ohio, a small rural town where community means everything. My friends, teachers, coaches, and the parents of my friends became my lifeline. They saw a kid (a very hyper & goofy one) who needed guidance, and they stepped in with open hearts and unconditional love. Whether it was a word of encouragement, a ride to practice, or just someone who cared, their kindness filled in the gaps my childhood left behind. To this day, their belief in me is what keeps me going. They were there when I needed it most, and it’s now my life’s mission to make their investment in me worthwhile. Read More>>
Julie Ryan
I was a hobbyist photographer for over a decade before I decided to make it my career. It’s funny to look back now two decades later and see how circumstances and decisions compounded to bring me where I am today. After I graduated with a degree in Interior Design, I began my first “grown-up” job at Amanda Webster Design, Inc. I started an internship with Amanda, and loved my little work family. I enjoyed being an AutoCAD operator for her firm for several years, but when my husband got into medical school, we moved to Gainesville and I had to leave my beloved job. Read More>>
Chase Killette
We just use to pay close attention to what was going up in that 2012-2017 time period and that’s when I really knew clothes was something I was into. It’s a store in Jacksonville called EMERSON THRIFT STORE and I swear we was some of the first ppl on the thrift scene in Jax in our era fr since 2011 days fr so we stayed in the thrift. So fashion or dressing or design has always been with me fr consciously or subconsciously it’s just been me, and now I really just make clothes I see myself wearing and if they rocking with it I’ll put em in it. Read More>>
Adrian Lee
Prior to this point in time, I never dared asking myself of becoming a stringer one day because of many reasons. I never believed that I could handle this type of delicate work, especially recalling how much dedication my high school coach had to manually stringing a racket. I was also struggling mentally and financially from taking care of my father who suffered from a cardiac arrest (health issues) alone. Despite all the struggles, I also wanted to keep my other dream which this is where my main career is, alive: complete my doctoral (PhD) studies. Therefore, my mind at that time was leaning towards “No, I am not interested because of these reasons.” Read More>>
Kenyana Holden
By 16, I was working with major promoters in Jacksonville’s thriving nightlife scene. I learned fast, landing opportunities at iconic venues like Aqua, Bourbon Street, Plush, and a few others. In the process of growing my following, I eventually connected with two mentors, Rick and AJ, who introduced me to the business of concert promotion. They taught me how to book artists, create event themes, and manage operations—all by the age of 18. You really had to be there to truly experience what Jacksonville once was, and why I am so genuinely passionate about reviving that potential. We’ve had it here already! Read More>>
Stephanie Cox
In addition to running the practice, I just launched The Better Relationship. The Better Relationship is an education company designed specifically for couples. Through specialized digital workshops and courses we teach couples crucial relationship skills that equip them to repair, build and maintain healthy and happy relationships. I wanted to build this company because I know that not everyone can afford or get into couples therapy – so I wanted to create a barrier free way for people to still learn skills to help themselves! Read More>>
Patrina Dixon
Once I found my groove, I felt it my purpose to share my newfound financial knowledge with others. Started by helping those in my immediate circle and that is when I discovered a passion for empowering people to take control of their money. This passion led me to write my first book, a practical and relatable guide based on your own experiences and target for the audience of where I think the money education should be incorporated and that is high schools.. The success of the book sparked the creation of It’$ My Money, a financial education company that equips individuals—from high school students to adults—with the tools they need to unlock their financial potential. Read More>>
Rebecca Scales
As women entrepreneurs, we’ve proven that business can be both professionally excellent and deeply personal. Our growth tells a story of collaboration, creativity, and a genuine passion for helping people shine. Every client, every location, every styling session is an opportunity to celebrate individual beauty and build confidence. Read More>>
Susan Gasperson
As a mother and wife, I’ve learned so much about self-love and self-worth, especially the importance of creating space for myself amidst all the roles I play. That realization inspired me to create my first activity book, blending astrology, journaling, and creativity into an interactive experience. Publishing on Amazon was a leap of faith, one that challenged me to overcome deep-seated limiting beliefs. Read More>>
