Miami’s Most Inspiring Stories

Every neighborhood in South Florida has its own vibe, style, culture and history, but what consistently amazes us is not what differentiates the various neighborhoods but rather what they all have in common.  From South Beach to Boca (and everywhere in between) we’ve been blown away by how many creative and talented people call South Florida home.  Check out some of the inspiring stories we’ve discovered throughout Miami and the surrounding areas.

Kristina Makunaite

My work combines vintage aesthetics with a modern twist, resulting in designs that feel timeless yet fresh. I’m proud of my ability to translate these classic influences into bold, wearable art that stands out in today’s fashion landscape. What sets me apart is my dedication to storytelling through prints—each design evokes a sense of nostalgia while celebrating individuality and elegance. Read More>>

Mark Lay

What sets me apart from the crowd, I’d have to ask my clients that have kept me around for all these years. I’d like to think it’s a mixture of both my personality & genuine care for those I’m lucky enough to engage. I honestly love what I do & couldn’t see myself doing anything else, I believe that comes through in every session & conversation. Read More>>

Joel de Sousa

I often come back to that quote from Walt Disney, “It’s kind of fun to do the impossible!” Often when I’m first meeting with clients their ideas feel impossible to them, there are hurdles or obstacles that they can’t see a way around. The initial “idea” is almost never the exact final product, but when we embrace the process together, I find that project just keeps getting better and better–that’s a journey I love to take with my clients. And it’s a journey I hope to take with you. I’d love to hear about your video vision, idea, dream, or maybe just your company’s biggest gap in content that you can’t see a way to fill–I’m just a call away. Read More>>

Michelle Bissainthe

In 2017, I discovered wig-making through YouTube. After watching countless tutorials, I decided to try making my first wig. The moment I finished it, I was hooked. I began experimenting with different textures, colors, and techniques, constantly improving my skills. A big part of this journey was learning to prioritize quality. I tested hair from multiple vendors, determined to understand what made some products better than others. Read More>>

Gustavo Fernandez

Starting my own business was both exciting and nerve-wracking, but I was driven by a clear set of core values: professionalism, accountability, and a desire to give back. From day one, I set out to create a company known not only for beautiful images but for a level of trust and reliability that my clients could count on every time. To me, professionalism goes beyond looking the part; it’s about showing up with intention, delivering consistent quality, and respecting my clients’ time and needs. Over the years, I’ve built relationships with clients who value these same qualities, which has allowed me to grow and serve high-level executives and prominent companies like Bank of America, JP Morgan, and HPE​​​. Read More>>

Natali Medrano-Reyes

From working with them more brands wanted to work with me. So brands like Elf cosmetics, MixSoon, MediHeal, YSL, Peach & Lily, and Thayers have reached out to me by sending me PR in exchange for videos. Although I have been shown on one of Thayers instagram post because I am apart of their Thayers ambassador program. I review their products. I have also done paid promotion post from Epilynx and Zantrex: SkinnyStixRight. Now I am gaining anywhere from 500-3k views combined on all platforms. A majority of those views are from YouTube Shorts. Right now I am hoping to grow more as a micro influencer into a bigger influencer and continue working with the brands that believe in me as of right now. Read More>>

Svetlana Eregina

Being a little girl , I was using my mom’s makeup while she was at work . So my passion for makeup was since the very early age. Growing up I started competing internationally on fitness competitions and It made me take makeup classes to learn how to do makeup ok myself professionally. My love for makeup for growing gradually. One day I realised that I spent so much time and money learning about makeup , buying makeup and my skills were developing on new levels. That day I made a decision to become a makeup artist and haven’t regretted making this decision even a day of my life. It’s the best feeling when your hobby is your job and your passion pays your bills making you feel happy of doing what you love Read More>>

Naomi Richards

It all started in 2021. I was laying in bed and heard a pop sound on the left side of my neck, I assumed that I may have slept bad that night, so I wasn’t too worried about it. After a few months, I decided to go get checked out by a doctor Downtown Fort Lauderdale where they did the biopsy. I was told by doctors that it was Non Hodgkin Lymphoma (Cancer). Because I am a firm believer in Jesus Christ I decided to trust God. The following year after, I got really sick and was having trouble breathing so I ended up having to go to the hospital in Tamarac that sent me to another hospital located in palm beach, due to them not having the necessary tools I needed.  Read More>>

Stephanie Owitz

I am the Vice President of Arts, Culture and Learning at the Levis JCC Sandler Center, a vibrant and welcoming hub of Cultural Arts & Adult Education and of the Jewish Community, located in West Boca Raton. I have been involved with the Levis JCC since my three daughters attended the pre-school, and I like to say that my children and I grew up together on this campus, which has been the center of our lives for the past three decades. To say it feels like home here is an understatement! Read More>>

Julien Gasca

Even though I have accomplished amazing milestones within the 4 years of creating my business, the foundation of my business is what makes me the happiest. The foundation of my business is powered by giving back to my community. With the revenue I make from customer orders, I set aside a portion of the money to use for shoes customize them, and donate them to the homeless, kids in Children’s Hospitals, and kids within low-income families. I plan on doing this forever as helping my community has a huge spot in my heart. Read More>>

Dr. Zac Pilossoph

From here, the story of how I got to where I was to where I am today can be boiled down to believing in myself, trusting in who I am as a person versus trying to live up to other people’s expectations, and realizing that this life experience is only provided to us once, so we might as well make the most of it as best as possible. I strongly believe that with these few principles in mind, anyone can discover who they truly are and eventually go on to reveal their unique passions and purpose. Read More>>

Sasha Carrion

The revelation left me utterly shattered. A whirlwind of emotions consumed me: anger, heartbreak, sadness, and an overwhelming desire for justice. Anxiety and depression crept in, making it nearly impossible to see a way forward. The weight of it all felt unbearable. Life seemed unbearably cruel, and for the first time, I questioned whether I even wanted to go on. I felt broken, lost, and utterly defeated. Read More>>

Telsys G Tarallo

Running my own agency has had immense peaks and valleys. It’s a very high risk, high reward type of space. Keeping a full roster of clients has had its challenges but I wouldn’t trade it for anything. I have enjoyed the freedom that comes with it. Creative freedom as well as balance in my life. It’s been a beautiful ride! Read More>>

Cesar Lazarus

Growing up, I was fortunate enough to experience a universe of stories from people across all walks of life. Along the way, I’ve encountered many perspectives and unique ways of resolving life’s challenges. These encounters, these lessons, have shaped my understanding of the world and continue to inspire my art. In the early days, I felt a constant pressure to create work that would impress others. But now, with these years of experience, I’ve discovered a deeper truth. I create from a place of authenticity, seeking to express what resonates as true within myself. Read More>>

Karla Gomez

Karla is a seasoned professional in mental health and performance optimization, specializing in high-functioning burnout, biomarker-supported care, and trauma counseling. With a Bachelor’s in Human Resource Management & Organizational Behavior, a Master’s in Psychology, and a Post-Master’s in Trauma Counseling, Karla brings a rich academic background to her work. Her career spans from crisis intervention and clinical systems development to performance optimization and substance use disorder treatment. Read More>>

Grace Smith & Maria Latorre

We both began our careers as graphic designers, hopping between industries before crossing paths at an in-house creative team for a furniture company. That job was where our friendship and partnership began, but it wasn’t until later that the seeds for Lucca Lily were planted. After Grace moved on to a new role, we stayed close and, coincidentally, ended up pregnant at the same time—Mari with Lucca and Grace with Lily. Read More>>

Fadil Inceoglu

I was born in Turkey and grew up in a broken family, finding inspiration in observing nature and the night sky. At 27, I moved to Denmark to pursue a Ph.D. in Physics, a path that later led me to Germany and the USA. Alongside my academic career, I found solace in the visual arts, starting with drawing and painting in my late teens as a way to express turbulent emotions and experiences shaped by the struggles I faced. Over time, I transitioned to photography to show how I see the world around me and to express my emotions, which are shaped by the personal challenges I overcame throughout the years, including prejudice and hardship. These challenges also further deepened my connection to art as a powerful form of self-expression. Read More>>

Erin Fitzgerald

My approach combines cutting-edge techniques with traditional practices. I’ve embraced Korean skincare methods for their innovative, multi-step rituals that deliver incredible hydration and luminosity. I also incorporate organic, plant-based facials using Eminence products, which align perfectly with my belief in nourishing the skin with pure, natural ingredients. These treatments offer the best of both worlds: luxurious, relaxing experiences and powerful, visible results. Read More>>

Chris Lee Pmhnp-bc

The resilience of my patients inspired me to keep pushing forward. Like them, I’ve learned to adapt and grow through challenges. Over time, I’ve built a practice that empowers individuals to overcome anxiety, ADHD, and trauma while chasing their dreams. The early struggles shaped my approach to care, and every milestone has been a reminder of why I started. Read More>>

Gabby Villanueva

Pursuing my indie music career alongside TV jobs, I launched my first musical album, writing songs from personal experiences. My album called “Mundos Diferentes” received great support and feed back from national and international TV and radio media. With iTunes and major music platforms supporting me from the start, my music gained incredible traction, and I’m grateful for the journey. Read More>>

Bxnny

Collaborations with talented artists like C-Fast, VALMAR and the very talented Balqees, one of the Middle East’s top female singers, have been highlights of my career. Performing alongside Balqees in Dubai was an unforgettable experience. Working with very talented European DJs and producers like VALMAR, AYKO, Robert Cappadona and C-fast has also been an incredible opportunity. And having some of my records being supported by very powerful DJs and producers, such as David Guetta is such a high and I’m so grateful for it. Read More>>

Mike Fewquay

I started Paidtripz initially to be able to become a travel agent and give many people the ability to travel affordably while also shining light on many different travel destinations outside of the popular ones. Over time I began taking tripz to many different local spots like, restaurants, fun activities, and hidden gems as a way for my enjoyment and those around me while documenting and sharing my experiences for others to try and enjoy. My whole journey doesn’t stop here as I plan to continue travelling and sharing my adventures to eventually bring and encourage those who may not be as fortunate or as willing. Read More>>

Glensky Inagas

As my passion for entrepreneurship grew, I diversified into real estate, private equity, and digital marketing. I’ve worked relentlessly to master branding, capital raising, and creating systems that deliver results. Today, I’m the owner of Daleq Agency, a full-service marketing firm that has helped over 8,000 clients scale their brands with guaranteed growth in social media engagement, lead generation, and authority building. Read More>>

Tomás Tobolski

Any musician can tell you that it’s never a smooth road. You play tons of shows to absolutely nobody, especially when you’re starting out, and it’s easy to get discouraged. With Telekon, finding members has always been a bit of a struggle, we went without a drummer for about a year and a half after the band was formed because we couldn’t find the right person. It took us an even longer time to find a keyboardist for the band. With Rug the struggle has mostly been scheduling. We’re all very busy college students with day jobs so finding time to get all of us together can be challenging. Read More>>

Elliott Mason

Elliott’s journey is rooted in his time as a professional athlete, where he represented Antigua, his Caribbean homeland, on the global stage at the Pan American, Central American, and Commonwealth Games in running and triathlon competitions. His expertise in fitness and dedication to healthy living make him a standout figure in the world of health and wellness. Read More>>

Nia Deltis

Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of working with incredible clients and building a loyal following. It’s been a rewarding journey, and I feel so grateful to be able to transform people’s looks and, hopefully, give them a little confidence boost in the process. Every client is different, and I thrive on creating personalized, unique looks and experiences that make them feel amazing. Read More>>

Fran Francis

Smooth definitely NOT. Throughout my years in the beauty industry I’ve share moments online with clients who bashed me. I want to say it happened at least 2-3x early one, it didn’t discourage me because I was a fighter and I always went toe to toe with whoever about me and my business. They may not have been the best way to handle business at the time but sometimes you just can’t let people lie on your business or your name. Read More>>

Alex Hussain

One of our proudest achievements has been the development of our own product, the Dyeformer, a post-processing tool that simplifies the dyeing of 3D-printed parts. It represents our commitment to innovation and addressing real-world manufacturing challenges. Today, 3DChimera is not just a reseller but a creator and enabler, helping businesses bring their ideas to life with cutting-edge technology. Read More>>

Marina Staver

Three years ago, my husband and I relocated to Miami and launched our business, The Staver – https://thestaver.com/ . We provide a wide range of culinary services, including personal chef experiences and catering for various events such as private dinners, celebrations, and corporate gatherings. Our focus is on crafting bespoke menus and delivering memorable dining experiences tailored to each client’s preferences and needs. Read More>>

Leandria Vickers Devis

My career started in the classroom as a teacher in Miami, FL. After graduating from the University of Florida, I joined Teach for America and began teaching in Little Haiti. I’ve always believed that education has the power to change lives, and I was determined to be part of that story for the children I worked with. Those two years in the classroom were transformative—they challenged me, stretched me, and taught me lessons about resilience and connection that I carry to this day. However, I realized that my calling was to support people beyond the classroom, helping individuals of all ages grow holistically and realize their full potential. Read More>>

Benjamin Soto

I was raised by my maternal Grandparents since birth. Some might see that as a hinderance but I never saw it that way, I always appreciated what I Had and never what I Didn’t have. Moving to Florida as a teenager leaving my friends and family behind was definitely a challenge but it also forced me to grow up faster and learn things quicker. I look at my upbringing and young adulthood as a blessing and I use that knowledge to benefit my clients. Read More>>

Lo 2times

I feel like the biggest roadblock was just finding my own lanes, ways, building my own network to do and get things done. I feel like the creating is the easy part but the process being getting stuff actually created and presentable is what separates people or gets in the way of people really striving for what they want to do. And then you can say just marketing, after being able to create and deliver, now you gotta get it in front of consumers cuz you can have it all day but if nobody knows then nobody knows. Lol if you let it, it’ll run you crazy a lil bit. Read More>>

Ali Wisdom

I specialize in a number of things such as photography, sound (boom operator), music, & behind the camera. However most notably my main career is being a screenwriter. What sets me apart from the rest is that I’m my own competition. Understanding that I’m always gonna come as odds with who I was yesterday to progress forward into tomorrow. Read More>>

Ava Noone

For years, I rode and trained without a singular goal in mind. I simply wanted to become the best version of myself so I could help my horses grow into the best versions of themselves. That mindset carried me through countless hours in the barn, my first victory gallop at just seven years old, and some of the most defining moments of my life—moments filled with immense joy, but also deep challenges. Read More>>

Lei Ye

I pursued my formal education in architecture and design, earning a Bachelor of Architecture with a minor in E-commerce from South China University of Technology, followed by a Master of Architecture from UC Berkeley, and finally a Master in Design Studies from Harvard Graduate School of Design. During my studies, I cross-registered at MIT’s Architecture Department, which enriched my understanding of design’s interdisciplinary potential. Read More>>

Haoming Li

Professionally, I had the opportunity to work at Studio Link-Arc and Grimshaw Architects, where I contributed to projects ranging from large-scale architecture to smaller, detail-oriented works. At Studio Link-Arc, I served as the lead designer for the Qianhai Guiwan School project, which was shortlisted for the 2021 World Architecture Festival Awards. These experiences taught me how to manage complex, multi-layered projects while maintaining a cohesive vision. They also allowed me to develop a keen eye for detail, balancing creativity with practicality. Read More>>

Alpha H Fleurimond

He has been working as a community advocate for over twenty years. His first job was in High school at Pizza Hut as a shift manager for seven years and at First Union Bank for five years. His inspiration led him to work at the Haitian Organization for Women in Homestead with Micheline Ducena for seven years and at Miami Dade Public School in the Bilingual Department for eight years as a facilitator for Haitian parents. After the organization closed, he decided to have a business named Variety Office Services in 2012. With so many people having asked him to open a not-for-profit, he and his wife founded Three Virtues Organization two years later to serve minorities, immigrants, and the migrant camps in Homestead. Read More>>

Mahalaleel Wallock

The biggest struggle for me was enjoying the process. I would stress myself out a lot because I wasn’t getting the amount of views and likes i wanted on my films. It would cause me to spiral into a depressive state and I would always second guess if directing was for me . But God reminded me that I gave my life to him , and he’s ordering my steps . So I shouldn’t focus to much on the outcome when I put my faith in him Read More>>

Delores Williams

Hi, I’m Delores Williams, and I’m proud to be one of the leading REALTORS® in South Florida. Real estate has been my passion for as long as I can remember. I started in this field at just 13 years old, helping my family process mortgages. That early experience ignited my interest in real estate and gave me a strong foundation in the industry. By the age of 20, I was working at a real estate law firm as a real estate paralegal, a role I began in 1997. Read More>>

Cazo Wilborn & Chris Mathis

We’re originally friends from college and realized that everywhere we went, we were always “vibin.” We would always be dancing, connecting with people, and filling a room with good energy. When the world shut down in 2020, we believed that we could continue to keep people entertained and be the reason people smile during a time where everything felt so dark. We began as a live stream on Instagram but transitioned into an audio and video podcast. We fell in love with creating content for people to enjoy and decided to create the show Can I Vibe With Y’all. Read More>>

Melissa Morales

At 18, I began as a secretary at a rehabilitation center. Thanks to my dedication and the support I received, I was promoted to the admissions department within a year, where I continued developing and learning. Over time and with experience, after 7 years in this field I am currently the marketing representative for one of the most prestigious Rehab Center in Miami, and today, I am studying nursing, feeling deeply proud of everything I’ve accomplished so far. Read More>>

Fawwaz Yahaya

In those early days, it wasn’t talent or experience that drove me forward—it was sheer consistency. I practiced relentlessly, creating designs over and over again, learning through trial and error. For the first year or two, I focused entirely on improving my skills. Eventually, I began to believe in myself and felt confident enough to onboard clients. That was a turning point for me. Read More>>

Oriana Pereira

I found refuge in art in all it’s forms but specifically painting is my meditation, a way for me to address thoughts and feelings that I can no longer ignore but also do not have the capability or courage to put into words. Therefore, whenever there is any sort of rush of emotions, negative or positive, I paint, I create. I think of every brush stroke as a translation into a secret language that only I can understand, so regardless of what I am feeling I can allow myself to shamelessly express those emotions as raw and wholeheartedly as I please. Art has truly cleared a path for my energy to flow into a stream of health and love. Read More>>

Kim Heise

The 2015 Rally For The Rocklands was an important moment that got me started on the work I do today. A developer wanted to build a Walmart in an endangered habitat called the Pine Rocklands, and local groups were trying to prevent it from happening. I had no idea we lived so close to such a rare and threatened habitat, and was appalled that anyone would destroy more of it to build a Walmart. Unfortunately that project went through, and many acres of habitat were destroyed (it’s Coral Reef Commons). After participating in the rally, I continued to make art about Pine Rockland species, and still do, as well as other local native species. Read More>>

Edward Jonathas

Like any entrepreneur, I faced obstacles—everything from securing funding, handling equipment issues, to building brand awareness. There were days of self-doubt, sleepless nights, and a learning curve about marketing, inventory, and customer service. But with the support of a small, dedicated team, and a commitment to offering excellent products, we began to see our customer base grow rapidly. Read More>>

Consuelo Mora

I was born in Colombia and have a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Design, along with an MBA in Business Administration from Brazil. Currently, I work full-time as a marketing excecutive. My life has always been surrounded by graphic design, interior design, decor, paintings, and various forms of art. This environment has fueled my genuine passion for colors, textures, and forms. Read More>>

Eileen Seitz

I was born and raised in New York City on the island of Manhattan. God showed me my gifts when I was 8 years old. My 4th grade teacher told my mom “Your daughter knows composition”. My mother heard my teacher as she intuitively understood color and music. She saw that I was able to sit quietly for hours and gave me all kinds of art materials to work with at home. I was a very introverted child and I would channel my deep feelings onto paper and canvas. Read More>>

Richard Lee

As I started working as a flight instructor, I realized that a single instructor can only have so much impact on a limited number of students. I was fortunate that my roommates at the time, who were also experienced instructors, shared my vision and decided to join me in opening a flight school that truly cares about its students. Since then, our goal has been to continuously grow as a school, as instructors, as pilots, and as staff — always striving to offer our students the care, safety, efficiency, and fairness that we wish we had experienced in our own training journeys. Read More>>

Elisabeth Castera

My journey began in New York, a city that shaped my resilience, ambition, and unrelenting drive. After college, I entered the world of corporate marketing, where I gained valuable experience in copywriting, branding, and digital campaigns. As I advanced in my career, however, I began feeling a growing desire to define success on my own terms and explore opportunities aligned with my passion for creativity, storytelling, and meaningful connections. Read More>>

Christopher Savage

Partnering with us means you get access to Lionshare.app—your game-changing tool for transparency and control. Monitor progress, manage requests, and stay informed, ensuring every dollar is maximized for impact. Our world-class marketing talent and tailored subscriptions streamline efficiency, deliver powerful results, and give you the competitive edge to dominate your market. Read More>>

George Pagan 3rd

Undeterred by physical limitations, I channeled my energy into learning to code, recognizing the internet’s growing importance. This decision proved pivotal when I encountered difficulties finding continuing education opportunities to maintain my NSCA-CSCS certification. Frustrated by the inefficient search process, I saw an opportunity to innovate. Read More>>

Jennifer Porciello Gina Natoli

Embracing the intriguing juxtapositions of both cultures, these tours take you through neighborhoods that have undergone transformations over time. Immerse yourself in the flavors of Miami’s vibrant areas, including Wynwood, Little Havana, South Beach, Normandy Isles, and the Design District. Additionally, you can also explore the hometown of these American-Italian girls, Northport, NY. By joining our tours, you’ll witness the unwavering connection we share, savoring the diverse fabric of the coast. Don’t miss the opportunity to book with us and embark on a remarkable culinary journey. Read More>>

Mariela “Renatta” Renatti

I later studied graphic design at the University of Buenos Aires (UBA), a practical choice, but my heart always remained with the brush. However, it wasn’t until I pursued an internationally recognized diploma in Ontological Coaching, specializing in emotional management, that I truly found my voice. My thesis, “How to redesign an emotion through art,” became the foundation of my personal and artistic philosophy. Art, I realized, was not just a means of creation—it was a way to transform and understand emotions, both for me and for those who experienced my work. Read More>>

Jaci Pena

My professional transition came in my mid-twenties when I started shooting vacation rentals and small hotels in Miami Beach. Assisting in studio shoots and gradually specializing in real estate photography ultimately guided me towards my current focus: design and architectural photography. The pivotal moment arrived in 2015 when I was unexpectedly laid off from my w2 job—ironically being told to “focus on my photography.”  Read More>>

Chris Stanley

StanChris began his journey on social media in 2017, focusing on LGBTQ+ themes from the start. His content often features Q&A sessions, pranks, and interviews, including a popular series where his straight friends ask him questions about being gay. This blend of humor and heartfelt dialogue has resonated with many, helping him amass a dedicated fanbase Read More>>

Adela Martinez

Everything started with a prayer. I graduated with a dual bachelor’s degree in Fashion Marketing and Design. Right after college, I finished designing a dress for the beauty pageant ‘Miss Mundo Latina’ for Miss Venezuela, along with a few other prom dresses. After the stressful experience of working on a dress for a beauty pageant, I realized it wasn’t something I wanted to pursue.  Read More>>

Raushan Feliz

On top of that, I’ve had to learn how to navigate a system where, as a woman and a foreigner, I’m often seen as an easy target. Small companies sometimes try to hustle you or overcharge you, assuming you don’t know the ropes or that you won’t push back. That’s been really frustrating too. I had to quickly learn how to stand my ground and become a ‘player’ in this system, just like everyone else. I’ve had to advocate for myself more than I ever imagined, and sometimes it feels like you’re fighting against a system that doesn’t always see you as equal. But I’ve learned to be more assertive and smarter about the way I approach situations. Read More>>