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.

Erika Davila | Hairstylist and yogini

I’m originally from North Miami. I grew up in a neighborhood where poverty was very present. Where children were having children. I always knew that something was wrong with this picture, according to the family tv shows I had seen in the pass. I knew I wanted to to marry someone who came from a great family not necessarily financially, but with good family values. I left my home when I was 17 to Puerto Rico. I began with a hotdogs stand to owning a restaurant and bar. I felt like a slave but I worked really hard to achieve my dreams and failed. I then came back to Florida and decided to start hair school. I had a few ups and downs. I finally attended a hair class that changed my life. Read more>>

Michelle Liotta | Broker – Associate

Im a Miami born and of Cuban and Pakistani decent . Growing up in Miami it was inevitable that you learn to speak Spanish. I never had any formal training , even though I lived with my father, that doesnt speak Spanish , I learned Spanish listening to others such as my mom , grand mother and any other Spanish only speaking person I could learn from. Fast forward to today, every 1-2 clients of 5 are Latino. Learning Spanish at an early age has helped me facilitate these relationships to help grow my real estate career. In turn I have been able to help many latinos achieve the American dream ! Se Habla Español ! Read more>>

GISLAINE MACEK | Publisher

I’m from Brazil, my graduation is Science Computer, I lived 10 years in Paris, France where I studied ” oil painting ” at the “Ecole de beaux Art de Paris”. I’ve always had an appreciation for getting to know other countries and because that I’m fluent in 4 languages (Spanish, Portuguese, English and French), which helps me to have a deep interaction with other cultures.…. When I returned to Brazil, I created a Concept Store more dedicated to interior design (decorations and furniture) for 15 years in 3 Brazilian cities. I also created my first magazine “Voila” always focused on art, interior design, travel, and fashion, which I had for 10 years. Read more>>