Even if you are from the same neighborhood as someone else, you might still be coming from different places. Where you are from is a complicated question and it elicits complicated, but interesting and thought-provoking responses. We’ve shared some of those responses below.

Betty Martinez | CEO & Creative Director of Beamina

I would love to take a minute to let you know a little bit about us… Both my parents and two of my sisters were born in Cuba; but I was born in Puerto Rico. They fled Cuba when they realized that Communism had taken over. As you can imagine, it wasn’t easy to exile. My father was interested in coming to Puerto Rico because at some point he had heard that they spoke Spanish (the only language he knew). Once in Puerto Rico (I will spare the details of his departure from Cuba), he found himself with nothing. Read more>>

Vince Cuadra | Multimedia artist

I was born and raised in Miami Beach and have recently been living between South Miami, Miami Beach, and Miami Lakes. My family is Costa Rican and Argentinian, needless to say I’ve always. been surrounded by an interesting and colorful blend of cultures. I have a huge appreciation for Miami and being away from the beach has made me appreciate it more than ever. Read more>>

Lorenzo “Zoe” Acosta | Artist

I’m Florida through and through. Born and raised. I’m a first generation Salvadorean-American, my mom and most of my family have worked the fields of Florida my entire life, and while we didn’t have much, they have instilled in me principles of hard work, perseverance, and integrity. I am forever inspired by the vibrant colors, delicious tastes, and cultural diversity of South Florida. Read more>>