Through our work we have had the good fortune of seeing firsthand how success comes in every shape, size, color, faith, and orientation. More importantly we’ve learned that success is often the result of people embracing their unique backgrounds and so we’ve asked the community to tell us about their background and how it has impacted where they are today.

Ernesto Mandowsky | CEO of CPD Advisors, Author of NewBee, Creator of The Cashflow Engine

I’m originally from Miami, Florida-one of the few-, and have lived here my whole life minus a couple of years in New York City and DC. My family is a varied mix of people with roots spanning France, Italy, Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Romania, and Germany. Growing up, 5 languages were spoken at home. When our family would visit, we spent lots of time eating, drinking, and celebrating life, which led to my interest in Hospitality and the dream of opening 6 restaurants. Read more>>

Nina Joory | Singer & Songwriter

My background and upbringing absolutely impacted me in many ways. I was born to Brazilian parents and grew up in the very international and cosmopolitan city of Geneva, Switzerland, speaking French, Portuguese and English. The city, my own cultural upbringing at home, and my school all played a major role in who I am today. I studied at the International School of Geneva from pre-K until high school graduation, where I met and became friends with people from all around the world. Read more>>

Kiah Wynter | Founder of SO SVN

I’m originally from Miramar, Fl where I spent most of my years before moving throughout South Florida. My Jamaican-Trinidadian family is full of culture and has shaped me into the ambitious, loving, energetic, strong-minded woman I am today. I’ve always been surrounded by entrepreneurs and go-getters, so it was only natural for me to seek that path through my passions and creativity. Read more>>

Cesar DeGracia | Comedian & Filmmaker.

I grew up in Hialeah with Cuban parents, which is not a rarity in Miami but being Cuban American anywhere else is a bit more unique. I think for most Comedians with similar backgrounds we feel the need to explain or translate who we are. That can be said really for all artist of course. I want to take my comedy and experience beyond Miami. Read more>>

Allan Tijerino | Latin Munchies Florida’s Grill

I’m from NYC, L.E.S, downtown Manhattan, the projects. From two Nicaraguan migrant parents. Raised by a single abusive, neglected poor father who’s priorities wasn’t family and a mother who gave me up before I can walk. Discriminated base on looks, language and more. No hopes for nothing due to my negative environment surrounded by drugs Latin Kings, Bloods and Crips. No blood related family and living as a step child in my fathers new marriage. One year after Sep 11th 2001. I moved to Florida for a new chapter “School.” Attended University from 2004-2008 for my bachelors in Criminal Justice. Read more>>