We were fortunate to catch up with some brilliant artists, creatives and entrepreneurs from throughout the Houston area and they share the wisdom with us below.

Valentina Pedraza

I believe one of the most important things I have done as a single parent is create a supportive and open environment where my son can feel safe to express themselves. Encouraging open communication helps build trust and fosters emotional intelligence, which is crucial for their development. It also sets the foundation for healthy relationships in the future. Read more>>

Pamela Carroll | Founder & Whimsy Enthusiast

I genuinely believe that creativity thrives in places that force us outside of our comfort zones. If you’re someone with an idea for a business, the first time you step out and say ‘yes’ forces you to capitalize on all those ideas. I found early on that I was great with sharing my dream with my friends and family, but it was a lot harder to go out and seek that first opportunity. Read more>>

Gritty Flyright | Singer-Songwriter

Music is truly magical! In a world that can sometimes paint the misconception that we as human beings are far apart in our differences, music continues to remind us that we share so much in common. People are brought together over a variety of genres to connect and celebrate life. I would like to think that my small business performing as a singer-songwriter contributes to not only my community but maybe has a ripple effect to reach others around the world. Read more>>

Ms. April Robin

Elevate With Robin creates a significant social impact by empowering entrepreneurs, small business owners, and creative professionals to build purpose-driven brands that contribute to positive change. Our mission is to empower purpose-driven entrepreneurs and brands by offering personalized 1-on-1 consulting, masterclasses, and DIY resources that equip them to build powerful brand identities. Read more>>

Dawn Burns | Children’s Book Author

I love reading my books and sharing about the writing process to students at local schools. I hope that I can encourage them in their writing and illustrating journeys! They all have a unique story to tell and I want to help plant the seed at an early age! Read more>>

Edward Cascone | Visual Artist/Writer/Musician

I was aware of my artistic talents at age fourteen and encourage by my parents and grade school teachers. As time went by and my knowledge of art expanded I found myself completely consumed in painting and drawing to the point of obsession. By the time I was seventeen I planned to enroll at the School of Visual Arts in New York City. Between the years of 1967 and 1970 I had become absorbed in portrait painting, and during my time at School of Visual Arts I was fortunate to have taken classes with the renowned artist, Chuck Close. Read more>>

Luke Hunter

I feel into the creative career because of my family and love for creating. I always thought that I was the only one in my family who didn’t have a gift in art, my father being an architect, sister being an artist, and mother being an interior designer, but when I was first given first given a camera from my father, 3 years ago, it felt right making work and expressing myself and ideas through the lens. From then on out, I used photography to show my creative ability and express how experiences made me feel. Whether its a sports event, view, or event with my friends, I feel that using my camera is a way to show how I felt in that moment, and what I saw. Read more>>