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.

Ron Burkhardt | International Contemporary Abstract Artist

l grew up in a small town in the midwest-Jackson, Michigan. It was often cloudy and gray so l sought external stimulation and color where l could find it. The midwestern values l grew up with of pioneering spirit, character, compassion, integrity and quality of life left an idyllic imprint in my soul. Read more>>

Ashlyne Lafleur-Adebaworin | CEO of CrownedEvents Miami LLC

I am Haitian American born and raised in Miami Florida. I am 3 of 5 girls raised by mom (who become a widow at young age) and two older sisters. Seeing my mom and my older sisters work hard played a huge impact in my life. Primarily because they are immigrant women who came from Haiti and worked hard to make sure that me and my younger sisters never needed anything. Read more>>

Francesca Descollines | Digital Content Creator

I am from a very beautiful island called Haiti. Being raised in Haiti, I was surrounded by lots of cultural richness. The country is a melting pot of diverse cultures from all around the world. From a young age, my eyes were practically trained to appreciate the country’s amazing heritage, vibrant traditions, and artistic expressions, shaping how I now see everything around me. Read more>>

PATRICK CUPID | DESIGNER

I am a native New Yorker from the North East Bronx. Growing up in the ’90s, I was exposed to several different styles, sensibilities, and tastes. As a result, my upbringing is full of contradictions. My family originated from the Caribbean and owned a church in the south Bronx. The neighborhood was very diverse. West Indians, Italians, Latinos, Irish, Asians, and eastern Europeans all coexisted harmoniously. You could eat anything from Kosher to curry without giving it a second thought. Read more>>

Romain Frammery | Lifeguard

I from France I have gone through each stage of my life thanks to the different experiences that I have had and which have forged this mentality in me. Read more>>