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.
Jonika Smith
I am the Co-Owner of the Savannah Falcons Semi-Pro Football team. I am a certified Health Coach and Nutritionist. We specialize in Cellular Nutrition as a whole. We offer complimentary wellness assessments and complimentary fitness classes. What sets us apart is that our products and facility are for the everyday individual. It doesn’t matter what your level of fitness is or where you are on your health journey. We have a products or classes to accommodate you. We teach you how to eat to live! Read more>>
Tori Stauffer
Today, I’m the marketing strategist and brand photographer behind many of the posts you’ve double-tapped and bookmarked. I’ve been quietly transforming how women entrepreneurs speak to their dream clients—creating marketing magic that genuinely converts. My full-service visual marketing agency specializes in helping female founders develop clear, magnetic messaging paired with scroll-stopping visuals that resonate deeply with their target audiences. Read more>>
Tara Simancas & Barbara Cabe
Entrepreneurship has proven to be a continuing learning experience. The phrase “You don’t know what you don’t know.” could not be more true. We not only had to learn everything we could about the plants we were using for ingredients in our recipes, but also how to sell it, how to market it, taxes, and compliance. We started out only selling at the markets, so learning how to navigate the weather and cash flow when the weather effected sales was also a challenge. Luckily, we have been blessed to have great mentors while working these markets. There are so many great business owners that have helped us along the way. Read more>>
Anja B
Currently, I am a Leasing Agent. I am also a Certified Medical Biller/Coder. I am a full time mother of 3 and I am most proud of my children and my accomplishments since coming to America. I came here when I was 16 years old. I had a lot of challenges with one of my parents when I moved here and it made it extremely hard to want to stay in America. I moved away from that parent and started my own life, had my kids, put myself through school and started my business. I am most proud of the fact that I was able to achieve a lot on my own. Read more>>
Jessica Ferguson
Then, I did 2 of my siblings weddings and something clicked. “I could do this on my own.” So I started promoting myself and booked a couple weddings. For the first two years of my business I still bartended. As my business started to grow, I needed a space larger than the spare room of my house. I was very lucky to find my little studio space in Downtown Jax. I got in at a great time, it was a blank space I got to create my own little studio space in. Now I have been in business for 4 years, a full time wedding florist and loving it! Read more>>
Asbury Arts Center
Asbury Arts Center / North Florida Dance Center has been serving the Green Cove Springs, Orange Park, and Middleburg communities since 2005, and as of 2020, we are under new ownership! However, Asbury Arts is still the hub for beginning several creative journeys and opening young minds to new forms of the performing arts. We strive to instill and cultivate artistic curiosities through healthy and supportive methods with our professional and knowledgable staff, as well as the loving peers built from our community. As part of our mission, we believe in inclusion and that the arts are for everyone! Read more>>
Yvette Hoover
Rustic in Love is a family-run business that was born from love and creativity. I’ve always loved to host events and bring together loved ones, where they can step into a new world with each gathering – weather it was a medieval castle, a 60s party, a carnival, or intimate get-togethers like bridal showers, baby showers, and birthday celebrations. Every event was always crafted down to the smallest detail. Read more>>
Jodi Helmholtz
VolunteerJAX recruitment services began in 2017. Starting with 100 volunteers in a Facebook group and now reaches up to 4,000 members. Our service is grant-funded program that provides support to Non-profit organizations seeking volunteers. We seek to create the perfect volunteer match finding the right organization that inspires the individuals to want to give back to their community. Read more>>
Tasha Brooks
The journey has been smooth, with students who are incredibly flexible, go with the flow, and offer so much support. Every decision and change has been met with encouragement from the Avondale yoga community. I’ve always felt guided by Yoga Den, knowing that any questions or concerns I had would be met with help and reassurance. Because of that, I’ve never felt worried about any challenges that came my way. Read more>>
Zakela Mickens
I recently had the incredible opportunity to participate in the annual Call on Congress in Washington, D.C., where we advocated for increased funding for colorectal cancer research, expanded access to screenings, and the establishment of the Congressional Colorectal Cancer Caucus. Our goal was to raise awareness and push for meaningful policy changes at the federal level. Read more>>
Sunni Myers
Gogh Create was created by a local Jacksonville artist and art teacher by the name of Sunni Myers who saw a need in the community for people of all ages to create art for art’s sake. She uses her skills as an artist to engage participants and encourage them to create something of their own! We all have the desire and love to create- let’s enjoy making art and discovering our creative process together! With a customizable approach for all ages, you will be provided with the resources to help you create something and find joy! Read more>>
Edna Jean-Mary
My journey has been a beautiful mix of growth, resilience, and faith. I graduated from the University of North Florida with a Bachelor of Science in Public Health, originally planning to become a pediatrician. After taking the MCAT multiple times and not achieving the results I hoped for, I had to reevaluate my path. While it was difficult to shift my dreams, I trusted that God had a greater plan for me. One of my favorite Bible verses, Jeremiah 29:11, reminds me that His plans are to prosper and not harm me, to give me hope and a future. That promise has guided every decision I’ve made. Read more>>
Jenae Johnson
After hair school I started out as a shampoo assistant. This position really taught me the ends and outs of how to properly care for your clients hair as well as how to properly run a salon while strengthing my skills behind the chair. I would always be grateful for my humble beginnings as it was the foundation for the stylist I am today. In 2017 after the passing of my mom I opened my very own salon JMJ Stylez. I wanted to create an environment where like minded stylist could come together in a team environment and grow their skills as well as their business. A safe space for women to be free of judgement, unwind, relax and leave looking and feeling beautiful. Today I have been a successful hairstylist for over 14 years. I am also caretaker to my dad. Read more>>
Adriane’ (Bounce) Tate
My name is Bounce! I moved to Jacksonville,Florida in 2017 from Chicago Illinois alone in hopes of taking my passion of dance further. I started out making simple online dance videos which connected me to many of dancers. I started taking multiple trainings and classes that inspired me to figure out what’s my style and what makes me different. Through that period I became the “the girl who makes the music videos”! It’s all about telling my story through movement and staying connected to my roots while still being able to inspire others to express themselves through dance, leaving an impact for a lifetime. Read more>>
Melek Tastekin
Later on, I signed a sponsorship deal with World Famous Ink, the largest ink brand in the U.S., followed by another with Hustle Butter. In addition to realism tattoos, I also developed my own unique surreal style, becoming one of the pioneers of the neon effect tattoo look. This style became so popular that I collaborated with World Famous to launch my own ink line, the “Melek Tastekin Neon Effect Series.” I now have two ink sets under my name. Read more>>
Jasmine Souers
Everyone I encountered, from the provider to the tech performing my mammogram, kept telling me I was “too young” to have breast cancer. At the time, I was ready to accept any diagnosis—so long as it wasn’t cancer—just to move on with my life and put my persistent symptoms behind me. While I didn’t think it was cancer, or at least I didn’t want it to be, I knew my doctor was making an uninformed guess and that something was definitely wrong. Read more>>
Caissen Soul And Ren Soul
Soul Coffee, a mobile coffee cart founded by two individuals who fell in love over a cup of coffee! We understand how important coffee is to the soul, and are dedicated to providing not only the finest coffee we can but also a welcoming and inclusive community. As an Asian-owned and woman-run business, we take pride in our heritage and strive to highlight flavors that reflect it. We aim to create a space where individuals from the coffee industry who may not be as visible are given an opportunity to showcase their talents. Read more>>
Chelsea Lewis
I’m Chelsea Lewis, a passionate entrepreneur, parent coach, and advocate for maternal wellness. In 2018, I founded My Mommy Wisdom after experiencing firsthand the challenges of motherhood and realizing the need for natural, effective, and safe products for both moms and babies. I wanted to create a brand that not only provided high-quality, toxin-free solutions but also truly supported mothers through every stage of their journey—whether it’s postpartum recovery, lactation support, or baby skincare. Read more>>
Dawn Curling
I started my business in a 10×10 booth, pressing heat transfers on shirts—completely unaware of the journey I was about to embark on. At the time, I was working a corporate job at age 28, making small custom shirts for coworkers. A business partner encouraged me to leave my full-time job and dive into the world of t-shirt printing. With little experience, we took a huge leap, producing 500 shirts to sell at the Million Man March—and we completely sold out. That success gave me the confidence to take my side hustle more seriously. Read more>>
Stephanie Bush
I continued to gain experience in the PT world as a float physical therapist working in a variety of hospital and non-hospital-based outpatient clinics. After five years of patient care, I applied to and was accepted into the first Women’s Health Residency Program class with Brooks Rehabilitation Institute for Higher Learning. As one of two Women’s Health Physical Therapy Residents, I spent a full year taking a deep post-professional dive into all things women’s health and pelvic floor physical therapy, with successful completion of my board certification in Women’s Health Physical Therapy in 2014 with the American Physical Therapy Association. Read more>>
Joshua Willis
Originally hailing from Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Ambrose is a powerhouse in the music industry, seamlessly blending his talents across multiple genres. As a captivating R&B and hip-hop artist, he delivers soulful melodies and hard-hitting verses that connect with audiences on a deep level. Under the moniker YBF Pharaoh, he commands the production scene, crafting beats that drive the next wave of hip-hop innovation. Beyond the studio, Ambrose brings electrifying energy as the drummer of Versus, a genre-defying band signed to Revival Recordings, where his rhythmic prowess fuels their unique sound. Read more>>
Claudia LaCasse
I was lucky enough to attend a high school with a photography program. My photography teacher truly believed in me. She helped me take photography seriously, giving me the freedom to be creative and constantly challenging me to improve. I’d complete my class assignments and then take photos of my friends after school. I documented everything, and not just through photos—I also started making videos. I had a natural eye for it. Read more>>
Susan Kniseley-Foy
I was born in Houston, Texas. My father served in the Peace Corps and met my Panamanian mother in the rural interior of Panama. From the beginning, my life has been shaped by multicultural influences and a love for travel. Though I spent most of my childhood in Houston, my family attempted to live in Panama for a few years before returning to the U.S. for better access to medical care. We settled back in Houston until I was 15, when we relocated to Arkansas. Read more>>
Nicole Rich
Over time, we’ve upgraded to a fully electric 39-foot Pearson sailboat, which has further enhanced our sailing experience with its innovative technology and eco-friendly design. Choosing this life has been the best decision we’ve ever made. It has opened our eyes to the true meaning of living a long, happy life—spending quality time together as a family, embracing each new day with adventure and love. We are so grateful for this journey, which has brought us closer together and given us a deeper appreciation for life’s simple joys. We feel incredibly fortunate to have taken this path, and we look forward to many more years of exploring the world together. Read more>>
Janiece (JaLynn) Gilbert
My education is inclusive of a bachelors degree in exercise science, and human performance and fitness, as well as a masters degree in both occupational therapy and health informatics. As of 2021 I was able to step away from full-time clinical work and lean into what I am most passionate about, fitness and nutrition coaching, helping people with sustainable change for improved health. I worked as an independent contractor for a few years prior to stepping into my very own business, just last year, Jalynn Lifestyle. Read more>>
Latounya Moore
I Bake Cakes have grown since I first launched my business but has more growing to do. Being an introvert person, it was difficult for me to get out in the community, but with the support of my family, I’ve been able to participate in local pop-up shops and events. I once read a quote that state “Success doesn’t live in a comfort zone”. This statement has empowered me to get uncomfortable, so I can elevate to the next level. Having the ability to create a delightful product, while utilizing the talent GOD gifted me, brings me so much joy. Read more>>
Adams Ropp
As an avid golfer, I found myself with a closet full of golf polos—each featuring the same club logo. My wife jokingly referred to me as a “walking billboard,” and it didn’t take long for me to realize she had a point. Wanting to add some fun to my wardrobe, I turned to my sister for help. She came up with a creative and playful design: a martini glass. We loved the concept and started to build on it. Read more>>
Alessandro Berton
In 2024, after a heartbreaking and transformative year, I bet on myself. I turned Grove Park into something bigger than I ever imagined—a bridge between film and music, art and culture. Now, I’m creating genre-defining films while still shaping the music industry—one foot in each, blending raw storytelling with cinematic innovation. Read more>>
Madeline
My photography business isn’t just my full time job, it is how I connect with friends, clients, the world. It has opened so many doors for me and connected me with so many people. It has taught me so much about celebrating life’s milestones and finding beauty in every moment. My favorite part of this journey has been connecting with so many moms in different stages of the motherhood journey. It has been so therapeutic for me as I navigate motherhood in all of its stages myself. I am forever thankful for the risk I took (with the support of my husband) and for the growth I have experienced as part of starting and growing a business from the ground up. Read more>>
Gilesa Key
I knew as a little girl that I was powerful but I didn’t understand why or who it came from. As I got older I researched my own family history and African Spirituality. I knew I had the power to create anything but fear and doubt clouded my mind. Someone I loved reminded me everyday that I am perfect the way I am and that I can be anything I want to be! Her believing in me helped me believe in myself! I feel like I was sent to help heal people and that’s what brought me where I am now! Read more>>
Jeremy Scarbrough
When our children graduated and moved onto college, we decided to make the leap and relocate to St. Augustine where I was just going to go back to shooting as a hobby for myself, but that didn’t last long. I began being asked by people how they could purchase my fine art work, and shoot portraits. So in early 2024 I decided to register the business in Florida. I now sell my work online, and in two retail location in St. Augustine. As for portraits, I am still doing quite a bit of pro bono work to build a quality local portfolio and reputation as a serious professional portrait photographer. I know, that was a lot, but that’s about as simple as I could make it. Read more>>
Alexis Nguyen
My journey to founding a mental health practice was not a typical path. As a first-generation Vietnamese American, I grew up in a cultural environment where success was narrowly defined—typically through prestigious careers like medicine, engineering, or law. Discussing feelings or emotional struggles was discouraged, and mental health concerns were often met with silence or stigma. In alignment with these expectations, I initially pursued business administration with plans to attend law school. Read more>>
Nicolas Adair
It definitely has not been easy, with times of growth and times of struggle we have been able to stay on track by continuing to reach out to new businesses and returning clients for work. Thankfully, we are tapped into the local community her in Jacksonville and have friends and family who were able to jumpstart our success allowing us to build a portfolio through their businesses. Read more>>
Elizabeth Taylor
So, I decided to follow my passion and pursue real estate—but I wanted to do it differently. I’ve never considered myself a salesperson, but I am great at digging deep, uncovering the facts, and educating people so they can make confident decisions. I also have a knack for marketing homes strategically—identifying the right target market and connecting a home with its perfect buyer. That’s what I love about this business, and that’s what’s brought me to where I am today. Read more>>
