We were fortunate to catch up with some brilliant artists, creatives and entrepreneurs from throughout the Houston area and they share the wisdom with us below.

Milka Milliance

Title: How 3 Near-Death Experiences and a Spiritual Awakening Led Me to Revolutionize Corporate Retreats with Simetras Team Experiences

The Wake-Up Call: When My Career Almost Cost Me My Life

Ten years ago, I was Milka Milliance: a New York City management consultant with a passport full of stamps, a calendar packed with meetings, and an identity inextricably tied to my career. I thrived on the adrenaline of high-stakes projects and the validation of climbing the corporate ladder. But life has a way of rerouting even the most meticulously planned journeys.  Read More>>

Melanie

Living with chronic illness, especially something as mentally and physically draining as lupus and kidney failure, can take a serious toll. Some days are incredibly tough, and this quote helps remind me to give myself grace. I’ve learned that even on the days when I feel limited, choosing to do what I can is a powerful act of self-love. Read More>>

Iris Ramil

Having my own business was always a given to me. Ever since I was small, I was surrounded with entrepreneurs in my family. From accountants to bakers, I knew someday I would be on my own. These entrepreneurs taught me one thing, success came from providing value. So, I wanted to provide the two most important services required for a wedding, that being, wedding officiant services and wedding photography. A service that combined both roles under one experience. Let me explain. Read More>>

Jru Isaiah

Learning to trust others with my craft and understanding the power behind accepting constructive criticism. This allowed me to truly flourish as an Artist and helped me recognize how talented I was when I doubted myself. Read More>>

Yinet Montesino

The Bible.

There are so many life lessons in that book that shapes why I make efforts to live a creative life.

First, I understand that God has given me the ability to produce wealth. So irregardless of any situation, wealth can be produced. So I hussle knowing it can be done. Read More>>

Indio Jackson

Working with music is my passion, so for me I feel like im not really working, its like getting paid to have fun, there is no better feeling! Read More>>

Shantelle Coote

People think it’s only about making women feel beautiful, but it takes a lot of hard work and skill to master your craft. Success in this industry doesn’t happen overnight, it takes time, dedication and consistency to keep going. It’s not easy, but it’s worth it. Read More>>

Dawn Cirone

One thing outsiders might not realize about my industry is how much intentionality goes into truly personalized styling. As a curated buyer and stylist, I don’t just select pieces from multi-level brands — I create complete looks that are tailored to enhance and celebrate each client’s unique body shape. A lot of women don’t realize that something as simple as placing clothing at the waist rather than the hips can completely transform how an outfit fits and flatters. Read More>>

 Daejah Pierre Jules

Over time, I think I began to value impact and legacy while working with people of integrity over doing things for money or titles. With this, I began to say no to many things that were not fueling or challenging me. I have to work to pay bills but I have to perform to stay sane. Even though the line between play and work tends to blend when pursuing your passion , I like to recharge by doing intentional relaxation, like walking, meditation, and drinking tea. Read More>>