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.

Angel Rodriguez | Independent Artist, Aluis

I am from Santiago de Los Caballeros is a town the Dominican Republic. Is an island in the Caribbean right next to Haiti. When i first got to the states i came here as an immigrant and had to work for everything that i have now. I feel like impacted me heavily, just because its taught me how to hustle and work hard. Most importantly how to work my way out of tough times. I’m thankful for that upbringing. Read more>>

Alejandra Nuñez Advent | Artist and creator of Klübobyale

I was born in Caracas Venezuela in 1964. The daughter of a glass artist and a fabulous mother. From very early on I was exposed to art. My very first exposure to art was through my father, who’s career is so extensive it’s hard to circumscribe him in one tendency. Museums and galleries specially on Sundays were a ritual. Read more>>

Gabriel Lopera | Father/Husband Entrepreneur

I was born in Hoboken NJ. Then lived a few years in Jersey City NJ and then my family moved to Bayonne NJ where I lived until 2002 when I moved to Florida. I was raised by Colombian Immigrant parents. They split up when I was 10 years old & then raised by our mom. We had very little money growing up but my Mom did her best. Most of my childhood she worked 3 jobs. Read more>>