It’s more important to understand someone than to judge them. We think the first step to understanding someone is asking them the fundamental questions about who they are and how they became the person they are today. Understanding and empathy are essential building blocks for a better, more compassionate world. We’re incredibly fortunate to be able to ask these questions each week through our interview series. Below you’ll find inspiring interviews from in and around Miami.
Ana Parra
I’m Ana Parra, a pastry chef whose journey started in Caracas, Venezuela, where I was lucky enough to spend countless hours in the kitchen with my grandmother, “Beba.” She was more than just a teacher with a passion for cooking; she was an avid recipe collector. From Food Network and the Cooking Channel to the small recipe stamps we’d receive at Venezuelan supermarkets, she meticulously recorded every recipe in various notebooks, her handwriting filling each page. She’d tell me that one day, all those recipes would be mine, a promise she kept—a legacy that’s now a cherished part of my life and my work. Read More>>
Cynthia Eidelman
I have led virtual and in person workshops or seminars for communities and corporations, created my own online courses for moms and women, coached hundreds of couples and women and now expanding to corporate speaking and summit engagements. I also chose to rebrand recently and launched a new 6 month coaching program called Limitless Woman where I focus solely on coaching women who want to expand, get unstuck, believe in themselves and make their visions a reality. My journey has catapulted my own self-growth, self-esteem and now I get to show other women that it is possible for themselves too. Read More>>
Jovan Clark
In 2022, I held my first public display, “THE PROGRESSiON COLLECTiON”, inspired by nature and my hometown roots. With over 250 invitees in attendance, it was a night full of various types of entertainment and a debut of my art. The experience brought more attention to my abilities and allowed me to sell my first piece, legitimizing myself as a professional artist. In the same year I also showcased my talent for fashion design with the launch of my clothing brand, WAS (Wolves Among Snakes). Read More>>
Markia Garrick
As a kid I always been a high drive, independent, open minded young lady. It all started because Publix didn’t want to give me shot in their bakery department. I was so eager to learn and slicing bread and closing the department wasn’t enough for me. They promised me they would provide me with the necessary tools to learn to cake deco, properly ice cakes, and etc but that had never happened. I was hungry to learn so I started to make items at night and discard them just to get the practice in. I had the concept, I understood the task and I just wasn’t sure on why I couldn’t become a cake decorator myself. After watching them hire in and me continually looked over I decided I wanted to do my own thing from home. Read More>>
Oddra Lacs
But in the midst of it all, I burned out. The one-to-one client model drained me, and I found myself falling out of love with the very thing I’d built. I knew my story couldn’t end like this—there was still so much creativity left in me. So, I reimagined my business, shifting away from the traditional agency model to focus on digital designs—products that people could purchase, download, and customize on their own. No clients, no burnout—just the freedom to create and still help entrepreneurs in a way that felt meaningful to me. Read More>>
Melissa Jimenez And Gen Martinez
At her first elopement shoot, Gen instantly fell in love with the vibe of intimate weddings. She imagined there were like-minded couples in need of small wedding services, and she began working exclusively with them. Small Miami Weddings was born. Bringing my knowledge of event management and tour guide experience, I also became a Wedding Officiant while Gen showcased her stunning photography. Today, we celebrate over 2,000 memorable ceremonies over 12 incredible years. Read More>>
Joshua Pabon
Alex began his acting career in 2006, I believe; back in 06, I had no idea what “Chasing the dream” meant, but being a teenage kid working at the Local “Regal Cinema on South Beach,” I would watch countless movies. Without realizing it, I was watching human people called actors “Living out their dream.” So, Alex moved to Los Angeles after being a part of over 40 student films across South Florida. At that time, my young ego felt like a big fish in a small pond, and a year later, I followed his footsteps and made the journey out West. Read More>>
Rose Sklar
In 2001, my husband Dean and I decided to relocate to Florida, seeking a warmer climate and new opportunities. With my real estate experience and Dean’s background as a PGA golf professional and small business owner, we joined forces to co-found The Sklar Team. Over the past two decades, we’ve built a strong presence in South Florida, consistently securing top accolades. We’re honored to be recognized as Coldwell Banker’s No. 1 Large Team in Broward County for six consecutive years, with over $2 billion in career sales. Read More>>
Ryan Laroche
However, with the help of Netflix and music, I managed to learn a great deal. I also moved here alone, without friends, which was isolating at first, but it didn’t deter me. Between 2017 and 2019, I struggled with addiction, which consumed everything. It wasn’t until I completed rehab that I began to reclaim my life. Emerging from rehab presented the greatest challenge—I had no money, lost my car, but fortunately, I had paid my rent beforehand, ensuring I had a place to stay. Despite having nothing, I persevered and began the difficult search for a new job. Read More>>
Neshera Nasir
For the past 8 years, I’ve been dedicated to behavioral therapy and mental health advocacy, and my work has been deeply influenced by my own journey. I’ve stood in the shoes of people who’ve faced trauma, and I know the impact that accessible mental health care can have. That’s why I founded Greater Horizon Foundation—my nonprofit dedicated to making mental health resources available to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. Read More>>
Valeriia Popova
Encouraged by my mom, who enrolled me in art school at age 8, I began my artistic journey. Although my demanding. athletic schedule led me to become a self-taught artist, it didn’t diminish my passion. I’m constantly educating myself and learning about classic and modern art. The entire artistic process, from selecting art supplies to bringing ideas to life on fresh canvases, fills me with immense joy and satisfaction. Read More>>
Jessica Brantley-hoyes
I’m a Miami native, so this city has been a big part of my story from the start. I spent over 25 years working in tech, an industry that I enjoyed but also found incredibly high-pressure and demanding. At one point, the stress became overwhelming, and I began looking for ways to manage it. People suggested meditation, but I struggled with traditional methods. Sitting still and “clearing my mind” wasn’t working for me, so I started experimenting with essential oils, hoping they could help me relax and focus. Read More>>
Melitsa Waage
Has it been a smooth road? Absolutely not. But I wouldn’t change it for the world. Every challenge and obstacle I faced helped shape who I am today. Without my past, I wouldn’t have the strength, resilience, and determination that drive me forward. It’s those tough moments that built the foundation for everything I’ve achieved, and for that, I’m truly grateful. Read More>>
Edwin De Castro
That day came finally when we were all locked up during the pandemic. I was doing food delivery to make some money around the time and ideas would come to me as I was driving. It got to the point where I was coming up with so much stuff, I had to start saving these ideas on my phone while at a red light or waiting on my next pick-up order. Finally, I had so much material that I knew this was a sign. I had all the time in the world to write, so write I did. Read More>>
Milisent Saav
From that moment, it was a wrap. I was hooked! I started experimenting with my mother’s and grandmother’s makeup, studying faces, and diving into the techniques of legends like Whitney Snyder, the artist behind Marilyn Monroe’s iconic look, and Kevyn Aucoin, whose work graced Cindy Crawford’s first Vogue cover. Their artistry taught me about precision, transformation, and the power of paying attention to detail. Read More>>
Melody Omolewa
Eventually, i started catching the attention of local photographers, artists, and boutiques. This was the beginning of the almost 7 year journey of me turning my hobby into a career. Throughout the years, i’ve been blessed to do countless photoshoots, music videos and other forms of media for companies i could have only dreamed of working with. It didn’t feel real until i got my first magazine feature. I couldn’t believe the little girl from Nigeria who had all these dreams that seemed intangible was here in America living those dreams. Read More>>
Zania Spence
I went back, got more tutoring & took action myself at home by praying, and studying. After that, I went to take the exam one last time. In the middle of the exam, When the majority of the students left the room. The administrator began speaking to me, i found it strange but she motivated me. She stated “You know, a lot of people find this exam to be a little bit challenging. But you just have to stay focused and remember everything that you studied.” And that pushed me to say “okay, BET! I got this” & On my 3rd try, would you believe, I passed. Glory to God. I passed!! Read More>>
Marissa Puryear (mitty) Latoye Rahming (lala)
We are two best friends, Marissa (Mitty) and Latoye (Lala), who share an endless passion for exploring the world. Together, we’ve created a business dedicated to delivering luxurious and unforgettable experiences for individuals, groups, families, etc. Fueled by our love for travel, we design exclusive, majestic journeys that immerse our clients in breathtaking destinations and unique cultural encounters. Our mission is to transform each trip into a seamless, elevated adventure, leaving travelers feeling pampered, inspired, and deeply connected to each location. Read More>>
Lili Demm
And I jumped in to say – “Wait. What if there was an app where college students can post and complete ANY tasks for each other for money…” – something that helps the BROKE college students (the Runners completing tasks) and the BUSY college student (the Posters posting tasks) – and that’s how CampusRun was born. When we had our idea, we thought we wouldn’t have enough resources/connections to create an app on our own. After all, they cost tens of thousands of dollars. So we mentioned it to the leaders of the HBIA academy, and we set it aside. Read More>>
Katie Mignacca
I am beyond grateful for every step of the way, including the challenges. As a women in my early twenties, I often felt the pressure of securing a stable 9-5 desk job. The corporate life has never been for me, I have always felt the drive to dive into my entrepreneurial spirit and do more for myself and my community. Taking the leap to become a business owner and not have that stable 9-5 salary was terrifying. My mission of bringing the community together through food is what helped me overcome all of my self doubts and ultimately pushed me off the edge to really go for it and chase my dreams. Read More>>
Gabriele De Loach
From the depths of my soul, I’ve adored anything homemade and handcrafted all my life. I’ve been crafty in various ways. Sometime around 2015/2016 I began decorating flip-flops with seashells. Inspired by the serene beauty of the beach, I began crafting jewelry, weaving seashells into delicate adornments, and expanding into the art of silversmithing. In 2018, I decided to channel that love into something tangible. Each piece in my collection isn’t just a creation; it’s a masterpiece infused with love, positive energy, and meticulous attention to detail. Read More>>
Kemuel Pierre-louis
Film is never perfect and that’s the only bump in the road. When I begin to daydream and write a story, it never comes out exactly how I see it in my head. So taking in my god giving imagery and trying to paint an earthly canvas gets difficult and it often makes me laugh at the turnout when dealing with actors and actresses who want to jump in my on my films. Read More>>
Melissa Allegories
People told me to focus more on observational drawing to improve, so I did. I stopped drawing characters and started sketching plants outside instead. I practiced drawing from observation while still using my imagination to explore different styles and techniques. My life, though quiet, seemed somewhat pathetic. I began writing and drawing every day throughout my four years in high school from 1999 to 2003. I continued engaging in creative writing and poetry, but I didn’t merge the two. I saw them as separate, so I leaned into the art and never saw myself as a writer. My high school didn’t offer much for writers, but in 12th grade, they introduced their first creative writing elective. Read More>>
Vine Oghenekparobo Aduara
Fast forward to 2024, our magazine has become a major fashion publication, collaborating with various entrepreneurs, hotels, fashion brands, models, and designers. We’ve worked with Netflix celebrities like Kelly Chase from Love is Blind, Michelle Allen from Kissing Booth, and Mawuli Gavor, as well as top personalities like Quiana Watson, Will Gittens, Khadija Omarr, Dayana Molina, and many more. Additionally, we’ve advertised for prominent hotels and restaurants, including Radisson Blu, citizenM, Almarosa Brickell, and others. Read More>>
Adrian Garcia
Throughout my career, I witnessed the transformative power of stretching—not only in healing physical ailments but also in enhancing mental well-being, energy, sleep quality, and overall performance for 70-80% of my clients. In 2021, I tried Stretch Zone as a client for my own pain and was amazed by the results. This experience inspired me to open Stretch Zone Doral and South Beach in 2022, followed by West Kendall in 2023, with Miami Lakes opening in 2024. Read More>>
Andrea Cadelano
I was born and raised on the picturesque island of Sardinia, Italy, as the youngest of three siblings. From a young age, I was instilled with core values like honesty, hard work, and the importance of chasing one’s dreams. My initial passion was for a career in engineering, a path I had long envisioned for myself. However, a pivotal piece of advice from my father changed the course of my life forever. Perhaps fate had something different in mind for me, and so, I pursued business instead. Read More>>
Leah Dibut
My story pretty much starts at 6-7 years old in Hialeah, Miami. My parents had gifted me a karaoke machine for Christmas that I had asked for forever. Finally, I get my hands on it and start singing my behind off.. as I sang my parents went realizing that I can hit a note and hold it. Around 9-10 years old I start to figure out that I love music so much. At 11 years old I start taking Singing and Piano lessons as I at the same time move to a different town in South Florida. When I was also 11 I moved to Palm beach County. Forever grateful for that decision. Ever since I’ve been preparing myself for the big lights. Read More>>
Sydney Williams
But something inside me—call it resilience—kept me going. I was determined to finish my degree, and I did. During those six years, I worked as a veterinary technician and became incredibly passionate about the field. I thought I was destined to become a doctor and own my own animal hospital—that was the dream. I loved helping people and animals, but slowly, I began to burn out. Compassion fatigue set in, and despite training as a lead tech and eventually becoming a hospital manager, I was unhappy. Deep down, I realized this wasn’t what I wanted anymore. Read More>>
Jose Mendez
In November 2021, I was working for someone who faced various challenges, especially financial ones. After more than five years working for him, he suddenly stopped answering my calls and gave no explanation, even though he had once called me an essential part of his company. That experience led me to take a leap and start my own business. I had the skills to do the work, manage projects from start to finish, and select the right products, but I didn’t know how to run a business. Read More>>
Alicimar Vilela
After moving to the United States ten years ago, I initially worked in a different field. However, I was drawn back to real estate and joined Partnership Realty Inc. in Florida. Adapting to a new market presented its challenges – from learning different regulations to understanding the preferences of American clients – but my previous experience gave me a solid foundation and helped me build a network that includes both Brazilian and American clients. Read More>>
Mandi Hawke
For several years, I co-led and performed with a grassroots organization called Drag it Out! During one of our pride performances, I met the executive director of our local LGBTQ+ center, and a connection was sparked. Just a few months later, I found myself writing grants and creating an entire youth department from the ground up. Today, that same nonprofit’s youth department receives over half a million dollars in grants annually. Read More>>
Liv Bennett
I was born in the Bronx, New York to Jamaican immigrant parents. I grew up with my mom, little sister, and father in the household. I also have one older sister from both parents who we would visit while she was in high school and college in other cities. I did have one older brother from both parents who passed away before I was born, however I am 1 of 15 siblings on my dads side. I grew up in an environment that was very confusing to me. My parents were married but I never spent a Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years, or birthday with my father growing up. We were raised to stay in a child’s place so we could never ask questions. Read More>>
Dre Jackson
I am a Hampton University Graduate from Hampton, Virginia in Southern VA. I majored in Architectural Design & Urban Development. My story begins as an only son born into a family of women without any purpose-driven roles model in my life so I had to seek my role models out through my professors, friends and community leaders and people that inspired me through music, art & vlogging. They pushed me to maintain my dignity, business accumen, hustle and grit while working through university trying to get letters behind my name so I would have the foundation to build a legacy and build trust in business relationships. Read More>>
Desiree Kludy
Interior design is often perceived as a glamorous profession; however, at its core, it is fundamentally about attention to detail and ensuring a stress-free experience for clients. Understanding the psychology involved in working with couples who may have differing opinions is crucial to achieving a successful outcome. My ability to navigate these dynamics and find effective solutions to challenges has proven to be one of my greatest assets in this business for over 24 years! Read More>>
Oliver Bozeman Iv
The more time spent with my quarterbacks, I was able to create specific drills and excercises that maximize the speed of their progression. This is what I feel makes me unique, to learn the needs/weakness of my quarterbacks and work with each accordingly. My wife Cambreia, being an educator, helped me through this process, and believed in and encouraged me when I couldn’t for myself. She showed me that teaching a skill takes patience and the desire to take the time to develop new and intentional ways to see growth. Read More>>
Monserratte Hidalgo
My name is Monserratte Hidalgo, but everyone knows me as Monseh – hence, “Monseh the Creator.” Born and raised in South Miami, Florida, My love for art began only as a little girl when my drawings caught my teacher’s attention. My teachers through grade school would go on to tell my mother that I excelled in art and had great potential. This encouragement led me to the magnet art program at Southwood middle school in Palmetto Bay, where I’d further explore my talents and flourish in fine art. Read More>>
Carolina Benoit
My journey began with a deep passion for art and design from a young age. Growing up, I was always sketching and experimenting with different materials, which led me to pursue a degree in fashion design. at Parsons. During my studies, I immersed myself in various aspects of the industry, from textiles to pattern-making, and I interned with a few notable designers, like Ralph Lauren and Vera Wang, gaining invaluable experience. Read More>>
Aylee Quezada
The biggest struggles I’ve had so far have been two. One at the beginning, as I opened my business with zero clients and building a clientele was hard. The second one was during Covid19, when we had to close for 2 months and small businesses like mine did not receive any help and I had to pay rent without making any money. That was extremely hard. Read More>>
Monique Paramore
In 2013, I graduated with a Master’s in Exceptional Student Education and began teaching at Royal Palm Beach High School. During my time there, I pursued a specialist degree in educational leadership at Nova Southeastern University. Over the years, I took on several leadership roles, including Activities Director in 2015, ESOL Coordinator, and Testing Coordinator by 2019. These experiences helped shape my leadership skills and paved the way for my current position as Assistant Principal for Hospital Homebound Instructional Services with the School District of Palm Beach County. Read More>>
Yvonne Sawyer
Fund-raising and grant writing have their challenges — and while some of our grant-funded programs have a long term (5 years) — economic conditions change, hurricanes happen, a pandemic occurs — all of which impact our funding, ability to hire/retain staff and manage well. There is seldom a problem finding individuals who need our services! And even funding agencies have their quirks — a recent proposal written to expand services received a score of 99.67 out of 100 — and we still did not receive an award. Read More>>
Rosselyn Chang
I had moments when I didn’t want to do it anymore, when my mother left this world, I was in front of the sewing machines, I had to fix 3 dresses for a wedding and I only dried my tears of pain and continued, the responsibility that my parents taught me did not let me go home and cry my pain. The road was difficult, no one knew me, I put my name on the Google map and when my first client arrived I was so happy and the best in the world arrived, in fact to this day I see it, I attend to the bride who will soon be the wife and I hope to be able to take care of her children Read More>>
Arias Austin
I want to take a moment to give credit where it’s due—my mother is truly the driving force behind this business. Initially, when she approached me with the idea, I had no interest in getting involved. I wanted to be a silent investor, famously telling her, “I’m an engineer! I’m not slangin’ Icees.” But as fate would have it, here I am today, fully immersed in the business and turning “Slushy Dreams into Icee Realities”—and I absolutely love it. Read More>>
LaMeshia Conley
My story is full of ups and downs as an entrepreneur. I share a lot on my social channels @lameshianicole but in a nut shell I started out freelancing part time and did that for 7 years. In 2019 I officially got my LLC and hired business coaches to help me grow my business. In that process I’ve changed my mindset about life, money and business. Today I have gone from a soloprenuer marketer to a coach with two hired contractors for fulfillment. Coaching is where I am positioned for the long run. I’m glad about it. Read more>>
Sady Pineda
Sady Pineda is a visual artist whose journey from the vibrant landscapes of Asunción, Paraguay, to the dynamic art scene of New York City has profoundly influenced her unique artistic voice. Her work masterfully blends impressionism and abstract art, creating pieces that resonate with emotion and depth. Through her art, Sady invites viewers to explore the intricacies of nature, encouraging them to engage with the beauty and complexity of the world around them. Read more>>
