The heart of our mission is to find the amazing souls that breathe life into our communities. In the recent weeks, we’ve had the privilege to connect with some incredible artists, creatives, entrepreneurs and rabble rousers and we can’t begin to express how impressed we are with the incredible group below.
Cecilio Martinez
Then, everything changed when my close cousin was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer. We were the same age, with similar life paths—both married and starting families. A year later, he passed away, and it shook me to my core. He was always the strong one, the one I thought would get through anything. His death made me rethink everything. I considered leaving my job at the USGS to return to school and pursue a degree in Multimedia Graphic Arts. It was a terrifying decision, and I wasn’t sure if it was the right one. But my wife supported me wholeheartedly and encouraged me to go for it. So I did. Read more>>
Lisa Carrington Firmin
Who am I? Quien soy? That is a great question. I am a writer, an author, a poet, a leader, a Bronze-star decorated combat veteran, a former higher educational professional. a founder, and a business owner. I am a Latina and descendent of very proud Mexican Americans. Finally, and probably most importantly, I am a mother and a grandmother. I started out as a young Latina who became the first in her family to graduate from college. I wanted to make my mark on this world and years later, can honestly say that I have done that. Read more>>
Thom Ricks
I think I’m very good at capturing the essence, feeling, emotion and spirit of places such as San Antonio, Gruene Hall, Rockport, The Hill Country, Italy, France, Spain, and many other countries. Also I’ve dared to dream and continue to risk following the next hunch, insight or whisper of let’s try this? Like coloring in a children’s coloring book just to remember what it was like to play with crayons, colored pencils and to be a grandfather. Read more>>
Dr. Kerrie Carter-Walker
That leap of faith led me into entrepreneurship. Today, I’m the Broker Owner of Abundantly Anchored Realty & Design, where I help clients buy, sell, invest, and design properties, and I also run Abundantly Anchored Ministries, which serves families through back-to-school drives, feeding the homeless, and community outreach. Read more>>
Gabriela Islas Torres
During that time, I started bartending and unexpectedly fell in love with it—not just the job itself, but the opportunity to connect with people, hear their stories, and build relationships with everyone who walked through the door. One day, a real estate agent came in and made a comment about my personality and the way I interacted with guests. He asked me if I had ever considered becoming a real estate agent. Honestly, I hadn’t thought about it before, but that conversation stuck with me. Just two days later, I signed up for real estate classes. Read more>>
Samira Didehkar
Eventually, however, circumstances forced me to bring my artistic activities to a halt, largely due to the restrictions and limitations imposed on creative expression by governmental authorities. Migration, though challenging, opened a new chapter in my life—one that allowed me to rediscover my voice and reimagine the possibilities of my art. I arrived in the United States alone in 2015, starting over from nothing except the one constant in my life—painting. It became both my anchor and my light through difficult times. Read more>>
Sarah Waltisperger
We specialize in embroidery for babies and children, creating timeless pieces that can be cherished for years to come. From custom embroidery to everyday keepsakes, our focus is on thoughtful details and high-quality craftsmanship. On our Etsy shop, you’ll also find our heirloom knit baby gowns—classic, soft, and perfect for celebrating life’s sweetest moments. Read more>>
Drs. Mickey & Jenny Sege
Over the years, our paths naturally came together—blending clinical excellence with a focus on whole-person care. What began as a small practice with a big dream has grown into a team and community we’re so proud of today. Every step has been guided by the belief that health is not just about procedures or numbers, but about empowering people to reclaim their lives, confidence, and joy. Read more>>
Ashlee Ruiz
I was raised in a home filled with music, faith, and education. From an early age, I understood the power of music and found comfort in rhythms and melodies. Drumming strengthened my faith and even schoolwork over the years felt lighter when I gave it a beat or sang it into a melody. I could fully be myself behind a drum and that connection remains one of the greatest blessings God has given me. Playing the drums has resonated with me on every level and for more than 20 years I have remained a student of my instrument. Read more>>
Elyse Madrigal
The hardest part of starting a small business has been staying encouraged when things slow down. But I’ve learned that those quieter seasons have a purpose too. They give me space to grow, reflect, and lean on Jesus—trusting that He’s guiding each step. This has shown me that my business isn’t just about sales; it’s about blessing others, using my gifts, and trusting God with the journey. Read more>>
Madison Kern
For the most part, yes! The people and brands I’ve connected with have been incredible. A recent struggle for me has been burnout. I try to stay on a schedule that has me filming/editing my content so I can post it the next day instead of doing everything day of. It’s an efficient way of doing things but it feels overwhelming at times and can be hard to get back on track if I miss a day. I think there are more upsides than downsides, at least for where I’m at right now. And it helps that at the end of the day, I do it for myself! Read more>>
Charlie Tran
My personal style resonates with my environment. I owe a lot of my style progression to my buddy Chris. He’s taught and shown me a lot regarding to the Americana side of fashion. Along with being a Texan and the music I listen to, Americana fashion really resonated with me. Read more>>
