“If you stand for nothing, you fall for everything”

We asked the community to tell us about the values and principles that guide their lives and businesses.

Kiayla Ryann | Poet, Yogini, Black Imagineer

I think it’s really important to be authentic. That’s something that I value mostly because the only way that you can truly be authentic is, to be honest with yourself, honest about who you are, and accept who you really are. That’s where all of the cool things happen. The more I’ve been able to find acceptance of my authentic self the more I have been free to explore the things that make me curious and keep me inspired. Read more>>

Arte Zimmerman | Vice President & Partner I P&C Insurance: Commercial Real Estate and Development

Trust and Honesty: While I’m in a sales position, my job is protecting my clients’ assets from significant loss. I find many agents will do whatever it takes just to make the sale and not think about 1. the moral consequence of not doing what’s in the best interest of the client and 2. not thinking about the long-term investment in the power of your reputation as an honest broker. The trust and honesty factor along with experience and knowledge gives my clients a sense of security that they’re in good hands and that’s extremely important in a residual based industry. Read more>>

Ra’Mone Marquis | Writer, Entrepreneur, & Community Servant

Transparency and consistency are two very important principals in every aspect of my life. These two principals help acquire and sustain validity and a bond, whether personally or professionally. From a business perspective, these two components will help you accomplish 3 things. 1) acquire supporters and customers/clients – please note you may have some who “support” you, but it’s morally. They won’t be a client or customer. That’s fine, because they all play a positive role in the success of your brand. 2) Your supporters and customers will spread the word, which will help your clientele and supporters grow. Read more>>