Portraits of the Valley

It’s more important to understand someone than to judge them. We think the first step to understanding someone is asking them the fundamental questions about who they are and how they became the person they are today. Understanding and empathy are essential building blocks for a better, more compassionate world. We’re incredibly fortunate to be able to ask these questions each week through our interview series. Below you’ll find inspiring interviews from in and around the Valley.

Shanni Sabag

From a young age, I had a deep desire to help others. That calling remained strong even after I became a mother, therefore i knew it was time to pursue my dream. I was determined to become a registered nurse and be part of something greater than myself, making a meaningful difference in people’s lives every single day. Read more>>

Erica Munson

I opened FORM + CONTENT with no retail experience. I had a vision for a space that felt considered and intentional, where everything I carried had a reason to be there. It was something I wanted to exist in this community, so I decided to be the one to do it. Read more>>

Edison Roman

Hello. My name is Edison Roman. Currently I work as a tattoo artist. I also paint and draw with different mediums. Read more>>

Michael Gonzales

My journey in live sound began unexpectedly during my junior year of high school at Alta Loma High School. When a band was asked to leave a school dance mid-event, I stepped in, loading my record collection and stereo system into a pickup truck and returning within an hour to save the night. Read more>>

Claire Sofia

My path into this work started during a time of my life when I was feeling overwhelmed and disconnected while overworking myself in the restaurant industry. The yoga studio became the biggest safe haven for me, a place where I could reconnect with myself and see the bigger picture. Read more>>

Angela Deville

I didn’t follow a traditional path. I built one by paying attention to instinct and knowing when it was time to evolve. I graduated from the University of South Florida and began my career in finance before transitioning into the beauty industry, where I worked as a makeup artist and manager for MAC Cosmetics. Read more>>

Kristen Escobar

My husband and I have been together since we were high school sweethearts and now with our 21-month-old daughter Lulu, everything we build feels even more meaningful. I’ve been practicing Pilates since I was 19, but it became something deeper during my pregnancy, it prepared my body for birth, grounded me through postpartum, and honestly carried me mentally in a way I didn’t expect. Read more>>https://voyagela.com/interview/check-out-kristen-escobars-story

Eli & Kassandra Carrillo

As sisters we always knew our dynamic was entertaining to others even though to us it seemed fairly normal. As young girls, our mother always nurtured our gifts and worked around our personalities to allow a safe space for us to be ourselves. Read more>>

Christina DuVarney

I didn’t start on a straight path—and honestly, that’s the whole point of my story. I grew up in a life that wasn’t predictable or easy. There was instability, an alcoholic father, and a lot of moments where I had to figure things out on my own. Read more>>

Andy Luu

Oh man, where do I start? Hi! My name is Andy, and I am an Asian American Actor and Voice Actor based in Los Angeles. I originally was raised in Hawaii and moved to LA in 2020 at the height of the pandemic… Read more>>

Drea Renee

Hailing from Texas, Drea Renee has always had a presence that couldn’t be ignored. According to her mom, she entered the world “looking for an agent”and in many ways, she never stopped. Raised in an environment that required her to grow up quickly, Drea learned early on how to be resilient, independent, and driven. Read more>>

Eric Ross

Here’s what I believe: Real estate isn’t about selling houses—it’s about shifting life situations and creating win-win relationships while minimizing stress. After 20+ years in sales, management, and mortgage banking, I’ve discovered that the secret sauce isn’t just knowing market stats (though I do)—it’s thinking outside the box when everyone else is stuck inside it. Read more>>

Kimberly Lau & Linda Young

We come to Project ReWear from very different backgrounds, which is a big part of what makes our partnership work. Kim started her career in wealth management, building a strong foundation in strategy and operations, while Linda spent over 20 years in retail management and global brand development. Read more>>

Clif Jones

About The Owner: Clif Jones Moved to L.A. in 1977 with a rock n roll band and a record contract. The record company, RSO, folded 2 weeks after we played a showcase at The Troubadour, not because of us :o) All the guys except for me decided to go back to Atlanta but I stayed. Read more>>

Jaclyn Monroe

I’ve been singing since I was a young girl since about the age of 7. Over the years, I made my way through school and church choirs, street performances, theater productions to eventually learning guitar and piano to start my journey as an singer-songwriter/artist at 12 years old. Read more>>

Jermaine Tilson

My journey as an artist started when I was a kid. I’ve been creating art since the age of six, using it as a way to express emotions, process life experiences, and find peace through creativity. Growing up in foster care and facing different hardships shaped not only who I am as a person, but also the meaning behind my work. Read more>>

Daniel Teodoro

I was raised between Los Angeles and Peru, where his love for music began through immersion in traditional Peruvian and Andean folk music. That early connection sparked a lifelong passion for collecting instruments and studying musical traditions from around the world — influences that continue to shape his voice as a composer today. Read more>>

Joanna Espinosa

My name is Joanna, and I’m the founder of Crystals In Paradise. What started as a personal passion for crystals, healing, and positive energy slowly grew into something much bigger than I ever imagined. I was drawn to crystals during a time in my life when I was searching for balance, comfort, and deeper meaning. Read more>>

Sam Salman

I began as a hands-on artist and fabricator with a deep interest in creativity, fashion, and storytelling. Early in my career, I focused on building my skills independently, learning through experience, persistence, and creative exploration rather than relying on industry connections. I describe myself as “a builder, a creator, a fabricator and a fastener of fashions,” emphasizing the craftsmanship behind his work. Read more>>

Quencie Thomas

When I first moved to Los Angeles, I had just completed my master’s degree in Communications and was ready to get my foot in the door—however I could. I worked on any production that would give me experience, including The Law Firm (David E. Kelley’s first and only reality show), where I was a talent wrangler working closely with the attorneys on set. Read more>>

Michaelangelo Cruz

I’m a Valley-born native, but my story didn’t follow the typical path. Growing up in the foster care system meant moving around constantly, learning early how to adapt, stay resilient, and make the most out of every situation. Read more>>

Rock Samson

During quarantine after several months of video games I felt inspired to learn an instrument and decided on a beat machine I had lying around. Once quarantine ended I started playing at my friend Tommy’s booth (Threadquarterz) at swap meets to get comfortable playing in front of people and bring some extra attention to his booth. Read more>>

Gustave Blache III

I was born in San Bernardino in the late 1970s. From a very early age, I showed a natural proficiency for drawing, something my mother enthusiastically encouraged, even allowing me to draw on the walls of our home. Read more>>

Caren Chroma

My personal journey with body paint started in 2010, when I began to experiment painting on myself and noticed an internal shift in the way it made me feel. Growing up, I struggled with body image, as I moved to the states from Germany during my most awkward, young teen ears. Read more>>

Chloe Ray

Hi I’m Chloe! I am a Director, Actress, Producer, and the head of Two Other Trees Productions. I have a passion for independent filmmaking, and am deeply inspired by the French New Wave, Surrealism, and anything that breaks the traditional mold of storytelling. I love to champion new voices and help get new stories on the big screen! Read more>>

Leslie Medina

I’ve always known I wanted to be a business owner. I’ve had a lot of different passions over the years, but the one that’s always stayed with me is health and wellness. Before all of this, I spent about eight years working as a server in different restaurants. During that time, I tried starting a few small businesses, but nothing really stuck. Read more>>

Katya Yoshida

I’ve been in this industry for over 20 years, and if I’m being real, I was hitting that burnout wall hard. Long days behind the chair start to catch up with you, and I knew I didn’t want to keep doing things the same way forever. There’s definitely a shelf life if you don’t evolve. I started craving something different. Read more>>

mx puja singh

mx puja singh aka puja singh titchkosky i was born in vancouver, bc (canada) to working class parents (punjabi mom + canadian dad) with one older brother. i’ve always been creative, musical, curious, expressive and caring. my parents say i started singing before i could speak and if there was an instrument around, i would try and play it. Read more>>

Yaretd Alcantara

My story began when I arrived in the United States at the age of 14. From a very young age, I learned the value of hard work and sacrifice; I had to put my education on hold to help my mother support our family, though I was determined to complete my studies some time later. Read more>>

Ivet Castañeda Ruiz

I was born and raised in Ventura, California—a proud Mexican-American, first-generation daughter raised on sacrifice, resilience, and big dreams. From a young age, I knew I wanted more from my educational/profesional career—not just for myself, but for my family and my community. I didn’t have a roadmap, but I had vision. Read more>>

Minas Grigoryan

I started Aquastar with a simple belief: something as essential as water should still feel pure, elevated, and intentional. For me, Aquastar is not just a bottled water company — it is a brand built around purity, discipline, and a higher daily standard. Read more>>

Hunter Martin

I attended Academy of Art University for a BFA in Visual Development for Animation. While there I learned how to hone my skills for the animation industry and built a portfolio. I had often thought about making merchandise through the skills I accumulated, but wasn’t sure how to apply them. They felt like different worlds to an extent. Read more>>

Melissa Cerna Martinez

My faith is the foundation that guides everything i do. It has shaped my heart for serving others and led me to the path i’m on today. Growing up i knew the one thing i was always so sure of was that i wanted to be a wife and a mother and with time God gave me my hearts desires. Read more>>

Karen Abram

I definitely didn’t set out thinking I’d open a frozen yogurt shop. My background is in building products and experiences. I started in advertising working with brands like Nissan, Pedigree, and Sony, and later moved into tech, creating products in the real estate space. I’ve always been drawn to building things that people don’t just use, but actually enjoy. Read more>>

Katie Novotny

*Sits back lights a cigar, immediately has a cough attack cause I don’t know how to smoke a cigar* Honestly, I never set out to be a comedian. Like every little girl with a fireplace stage, a cape blanket and a little brother to boss around to be her sidekick – I never had big dreams to preform out side of my family’s living room. Read more>>

Leeron Tal

I am a single mother raising two teenage boys in Burbank, California. Being their mom is my greatest role, and I have always prioritized work that allows me to be present and available to them. My journey, both personal and professional, has shaped me into a natural connector, someone who builds communities where individuals feel seen, supported, and inspired. Read more>>

Veronica Arquilevich Guzman

I am Veronica Arquilevich Guzmán, a ceramic artist, painter, and art instructor originally from Mexico City. My identity as an artist has been shaped by a life lived across borders — I have lived and worked in China, India, Vietnam, Malaysia, and across the United States. That cross-cultural biography is not background detail; it is the core of who I am and what I make. Read more>>

Michelle Lorenzo

I’ve called Las Vegas home for over 40 years—I moved here as a kid from New Jersey, and I was raised with strong values like honor, courage, and commitment thanks to my dad, a Marine and Vietnam veteran. That foundation shaped my work ethic and how I show up for my clients. Read more>>

Aleksandra Nalepa

I am originally from Poland. I have decided to make a big move to America at only about 17 years of age. I came to LA to chase my dreams, got recruited to run track for college, my events were 800, 400 and high jump. Read more>>

Mina Calvillo

I started my charcuterie business in late 2021, almost by accident. What began as a creative outlet quickly turned into something much bigger as people connected with the quality, detail, and presentation of my work. From the beginning, I focused on creating boards that feel elevated, intentional, and visually striking. Read more>>

Derek DeVault

My love for acting began when I watched my sister in her high school production of Rumors. After seeing her shine on the stage, I immediately wanted to do the same. That summer, my community theatre was putting on James and the Giant Peach. I auditioned, and to my surprise was cast as the lead role of James. Read more>>

Marie Hernandez

I’m a California native, born and raised in Thousand Oaks, and my journey into entrepreneurship started in a moment I didn’t expect—attending a wedding where I found myself completely intrigued by a mobile bar service. After 23 years in upper retail management, working long nights, weekends, holidays, and missing valuable time with my family, I knew I wanted something different. Read more>>

Alex Honorato

I was born and raised in Brazil, in a small town called Paraíba do Sul, part of Rio de Janeiro state, southeast of the country. And there I lived most of my life. My mother was an elementary school teacher and my father a military policeman/sergeant. I’m the oldest of three children, all boys. Read more>>

Pauline PBehindTheArt

I spent over 12 years in the beauty industry, which I’m still part of today. But creativity has always been a constant in my life. Art was something I did for myself for years, mostly behind the scenes. After taking a break from it, I came back to painting a few years ago purely as a creative outlet. But this time, it felt different. Read more>>

Joshua Linsky

Sure! Here is the bio published on my website; Joshua Linsky is a performer of drum set and percussion, a producer of original music, and a music educator from Ventura, California. He earned his Master of Fine Arts degree in Jazz Studies from California Institute of the Arts as a student of Joe LaBarbara. Read more>>

Aura S. Michel

I have lived through what I can only describe as extraordinary moments—experiences that felt like miracles, each one reinforcing my faith in G-d and my belief that I was being carried through life’s challenges with divine support. Read more>>

Adam Mays

I started out playing in a band and performing at local clubs. I went to Musicians Institute in Hollywood, went on a nationwide tour, and learned a lot by doing, taking chances, and jumping into the deep end. Read more>>

Lori Heeszel

I chose early retirement from my career in human resources to purchase this business just as COVID began. Although it was a significant risk during an uncertain time, it has been incredibly rewarding. I’ve had the opportunity to serve my community while putting in the work to help an existing business grow and thrive. Read more>>

Karma Henry

I went back to art school in my 30’s. I graduated in 2007 with my BA from Cal-State Northrige and in 2010 with my MFA from Otis College of Art and Design. I started showing at Art Markets, including The Autry’s American indian Arts Marketplace. Read more>>

Katelyn Rose

I grew up in LA as a competitive dancer my entire life. I wasn’t the greatest technique wise, but performing on stage was what I loved about it. When Covid happened, I was forced to take a step back from dance and reflect on what I truly wanted to continue/pursue in my life. Read more>>

Veronika Akhmatova

While studying, I began to carry out orders of fashion illustrations from design studios. Pretty quickly, I decided to open my own studio ”AhVero fashion illustration”, specialized in digital drawing method, which gives me the possibility to have a more dynamic and contemporary approach in my artistic sector and a direct contact, without intermediaries, with the needs of customers. Read more>>

Niki Wright

I began training in martial arts when I was 9 years old, I received my black belt when I was 15 years old, my training has always been something I’ve held very close in my heart. I became a teenager and my training wasn’t consistent and ended up stopping. But I always held onto what I learned and never let that knowledge go. Read more>>

Eugene Kay

I didn’t start in a comfortable place. I moved to the U.S. at 21 from Ukraine — a country going through war. It wasn’t just a relocation, it was starting over under pressure, leaving behind everything familiar and stepping into complete uncertainty. At the beginning, I took whatever work I could just to stay afloat. Read more>>

Nicole Goldman

After my son was born, I left my career as a teacher to begin SB Garden Project. I’ve been gardening for a little over ten years, but really discovered its true impact while teaching during COVID. Teaching during a pandemic was a dystopian nightmare and after a long day on Zoom I began to seek solace in the garden. Read more>>

Anika Garcia

I grew up in a low- to middle-income household and was primarily raised by my grandmother, who played a huge role in shaping who I am today. My parents worked very hard while I was growing up, and even though they were busy, they always made sure we felt loved and supported and created special memories for us whenever they could. Read more>>

Cassandra Kent

Before Covid, I had just been introduced to the spooky community. My family and I frequented the events as consumers then we became regulars to the point of vendors becoming familiar and friendly with us. I was already known for my gothic and alternative style and art. Read more>>

Alireza Chizari

My journey into functional neurology wasn’t a straight line—it was shaped by curiosity, reinvention, and a moment that quietly changed the course of my life. I began in a completely different world. My background was in electrical engineering, where I spent years immersed in systems, patterns, and precision. It was logical, structured, and predictable. Read more>>

Arie Rose

My journey started long before the titles and accomplishments. I’ve always known I was meant for more, but I didn’t always know what that looked like. For a long time, I was in survival mode, figuring things out, navigating challenges, and learning how to bet on myself even when it wasn’t easy. Read more>>

Luna Ase

My journey of being an artist started a long time ago before I could even speak, as a child. However the journey of being an entrepreneurial content creator and small business started around 2016 but really got put at the forefront around 2020. In 2016 I began meditating and manifesting a better life and I was starting to take creating a social media presence ‘serious’. Read more>>

Bohdan Borysov

I started out in a really isolated place. I grew up and spent most of my early life in a very small town in rural Ukraine, where I didn’t have many resources to become a filmmaker. No film school, no film community, no examples of filmmaking being a real career. So pretty much everything I learned came from curiosity. Read more>>

Seda Lair

Sixteen years ago, I moved to California from Seattle, Washington to purchase a small, family-owned dry cleaning business from a relative. It was a big life change—leaving behind my corporate career to become my own boss. Read more>>

Bianca Mariska

My story starts in the Netherlands, where my mom & I resided in an apartment together in a city called The Hague. I have fond memories of riding on the back of her bike with the wind rushing by giving my little body the feeling of flying, stopping by the bakery for bread & getting an extra one to feed the ducks on the way home. Read more>>