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.

Dennéil Larmond | Author, Entrepreneur and Lawyer

I grew up in Kingston, Jamaica with my mother, grandmother and extended family members. My mother taught me the importance of hard work, determination and that I’m capable of achieving anything I put my mind to. Those values have been with me ever since and have helped me take risks and pursue new opportunities throughout my life. Read more>>

Alyssa Veech | Neonatal Nurse Practitioner & Children’s Book Author

I was born and raised in a small town just outside of Buffalo, New York. When I was 17 years old, a serious illness landed me in the hospital for two months. The amazing care I received at such a pivotal point in my life inspired me to become a nurse and care for others. Read more>>

Manzi Liu | Visual Artist

I am from China and have had the privilege of studying art in China, France, and the United States. As an artist, my work is deeply inspired by my dreams and aspirations, and my Asian heritage and culture play a very important part in shaping both my work and who I am. Read more>>

Florencia Rodriguez Lomeli | Photographer

I was born and raised in Monterrey, Mexico. While I was growing up both of my parents were very into photography, and I remember my mom took photos of me and my younger sister for her film photography class homework. I cannot remember a trip we took where we didn’t carry a camera and multiple lenses for our family photos. Read more>>

Shawn Gatlin | Shawn Gatlin | Street Artist: You Killed Me First

I am originally from Fresno, California. Growing up in that city was a combo of horrifying and entertaining obstacles for me. Well, being some weirdo looking musician back in the day didn’t really help my cause honestly. After moving to Los Angeles when I was 18 to play music, I found there would be a whole new set of obstacles to overcome. Read more>>

Michael Hall Jr. | Personal Trainer/Strength and Conditioning Coach, Football Coach, and Physical Therapist Assistant

I was born and raised in Boynton Beach, Florida. Growing up my mom, Linda, was a Teacher and a Sign Language Interpreter and my dad, Mike Sr., was a Police Officer. I started playing football around 4 or 5 years old and that’s all I ever wanted to be when I grew up. With that being said and with myself being an only child my parents did everything in their power to help me chase that dream. Read more>>