What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?

We’ve been working on our publication and platform for almost a decade because we deeply believe that the world will be a far more empathetic and collaborative place if we all had the ability to know each other’s stories. The past decade has brought unimaginable challenges along the way, but we persevere because we believe this is mission worth never giving up on. We often are inspired by the folks we’ve featured and their commitment to their respective missions and so we asked some of them to talk to us about this very topic and have share some responses below.

foroozan shirghani

I’m committed to expanding the Alienation project into an interactive installation and stop-motion film، exploring how fragmented forms can move, breathe, and tell stories. This long-term vision continues to evolve, and I’m dedicated to bringing it to life no matter how long it takes. Read more>>

Amir Al-Qadaffi

I am committed to my belief that when I plan for something I will be successful at it, I reflect on previous endeavors and successes to maintain this belief and focus. Read more>>

Natalie Del Carmen

It’s always been writing enough music to get someone to understand or rethink a part of their life that they’ve been trying to make sense of. That’s the lifelong goal for me. I hope to keep doing that as an artist through my own songs, but I think I’d find a way to do it even if it wasn’t through music. Read more>>

Yuxin Cha

As a cinematographer, I’ve always believed in staying open to new technologies. Yet, no matter how much the tools evolve, my foundation remains the same, which is to evaluate the emotion of the character and create resonance with the audience. From shooting on traditional film cameras to digital and now virtual production, I’ve followed the same path of using light and image to express emotion. Read more>>

Taige Shi

I’ve always believed in controlling the controllable. In filmmaking and in life, there are countless variables you can’t predict: funding, timing, recognition, or who decides to say yes. What you can control is the craft, the integrity of the story, and how you show up every day for the work. That belief keeps me grounded, especially when projects take years to come together. Read more>>

Lauren Donahue

I’m deeply committed to helping more people unplug daily…to disconnect from their devices and reconnect with themselves, nature, and the people around them. We live in a world that’s constantly demanding our attention, and I believe that stillness, presence, and real human connection are becoming some of the rarest (yet most needed) experiences on the planet. Read more>>

Destinie Lynn

I’m committed to correcting the narrative around American roots music, what it is, and where it came from. Particularly narratives around the banjo. There’s been a groundswell movement of Black roots artists over the last couple of decades, who are dedicated to sharing the real roots of the banjo and old-time music. Read more>>

Nisa Ruiz

A project that I’m committed to and getting my business big enough to provide jobs that pay well and creating an excellent work environment that makes others happy and have a purpose. Especially black women. As a black woman with a Hispanic last name, I do not get a lot of job opportunities, in this science field. It’s a struggle. Read more>>

Angela Karaguezian

I’m deeply committed to preserving the art of handcrafted jewelry in a world that moves faster every day. Some things are meant to take time — especially the things made to last a lifetime. For me, it’s not just about creating jewelry; it’s about protecting a generational craft and honoring the people behind it. Read more>>

Matthew Silberman

I’m committed to growing, improving, and evolving as an artist and musician. It’s a life-long process. I’m committed to it until I die. I will always strive to make better music than I have, and to reach for something new, fresh, unique, every time I can. Read more>>

Elizabeth McIrvin

I want to advocate for fair pay for massage therapists and I don’t care how long it takes. Right now, most massage therapists make only 10%–30% of the service cost. That means a therapist might earn just $18–$30 from a $100–$130 massage. This is a rare industry where our hands, strength, knowledge, and healing are the product itself. Read more>>

Christina Diaz

I’m deeply committed to building a lasting creative community — a space where quality fine art is accessible, not intimidating or gatekept. I want to make collecting art feel possible for everyone, while giving artists a platform to evolve, be seen, and be valued. Read more>>

Needah Kavallierou

Wild Heart Mamas has become one of Pasadena’s most beloved mom communities a place where laughter, healing, and friendship meet over coffee. The gatherings are always free, and the mission is simple: to build authentic connection among women who are doing the hard and beautiful work of raising the next generation. Wild Heart Mamas meets every Wednesday in Pasadena. Read more>>