There are so many factors that affect how our lives turn out, but one of the most interesting is how our backgrounds give us unique strengths and perspectives that affect who we are as adults. We asked rising stars from the community to tell us about their background and upbringing and how they feel it’s impacted who they are today.

Princess Boyd | Content Creator/Influencer

My name is Princess. Born in Tampa, stayed there until I was about 9 years old then moved to Daytona. Needless, to say I’ve been in Florida all my life. Read more>>

Alejandra Azur | Radio Hostess, Influencer, and Actress

I was born and raised in Puerto Rico, lived in the Dominican Republic for four years, and finally moved to Miami at the age of 14. Growing up, I was not only influenced by my Puerto Rican heritage, but also by my Spanish dad and grandparents, the Dominicans around me in school, and the multicultural melting pot that is Miami. Puerto Rico, like other Latino countries, has a rich culture of pride, representation, and diversity. Being a Puerto Rican navigating different cultural landscapes has not only fueled my creativity but has also instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility to authentically represent my heritage. Read more>>

Tanya G Burnett | Naturalist, Creative, Photographer

The seeds for my marine enthusiasm began early while growing up in the US Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. Once back in the states in the early 80’s, I started living and scuba diving in Miami, Keys and the Bahamas. While studying photography and recreational dive management at Barry University, I was pretty sure the direction I was going in. By the age of twenty I was teaching diving, shooting underwater images and working on my Captains license. Read more>>

Camille Daly | Graphic Designer & Consultant

As a rare native Floridian with roots stretching back to Jamaica, my upbringing was infused with Caribbean warmth and values. My parents, who bravely migrated in the 80s, instilled in us the principles of love, respect, and mutual support. This foundation has deeply influenced my approach to business – where I see parallels in the intrinsic hospitality of my culture. We’re not just about transactions; we’re about building relationships and serving with heart. Read more>>