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. Check out our favorite stories from across the Voyage family.
Jocelyn Alvarez
To further enhance my skills and better serve my clients, I also pursued additional education. Today, I am focused on building my brand and increasing awareness for JocelynTic. My mission is to alleviate the stress of social media management for business owners, as their daily tasks can often make posting on social media a low priority. This is encapsulated in my slogan: “Tic off your list, grow your business!” Read More>>
Ashley Johnson
With my mothers death and my determination to make others feel beautiful I chose entrepreneurship in 2018 and left my job to take on braiding full time.Ove rather years i learned new styles and techniques and my business grew abundantly. By the year of 2020 I opened a braiding shop me and my business partner and went on there until we moved here to the state of Texas.Im still thriving but im trying to grow and spread my wings a bit wider here in Texas Read More>>
Briady Hutchinson
Combining my love for cooking and entrepreneurship, I created a pop-up style rolled ice cream stand to complement local restaurants. At 14, I partnered with a local pizzeria, pitching my idea to set up my stand inside their venue. The response was excellent, and my unique dessert became popular, especially during local art walks. The pizzeria’s support led to my stand becoming a more permanent fixture. Read More>>
Jennifer Kempton
After treating many problems like diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, liver disease and kidney disease which are related being overweight and obese, Dr. Kempton wanted to find a way to help people lose weight in his urgent care clinics. After both Brian and Jennifer became patients themselves and begin a weight loss treatment plan using the GLP-1 medication, Tirzepatide, they both became convinced that this was the answer. Brian lost 20 lbs and Jennifer lost 15 lbs with little to no side effects. Dr. Kempton found a very reputable pharmacy and began treating patients at Urgent Care of Conroe with Tirzepatide. After finding sucess and helping many people lose weight, Dr. Kempton decided to launch “MY Easy Weight Loss” online to help and reach more people. Read More>>
Angelica Castro
My journey started back in 2021 when I graduated from cosmetology school. When I started school, I had no idea where life was going to take me, I just knew I wanted to be able to make people feel beautiful and confident in themselves. I’ve been a hairstylist for about 3 years now and an independent stylist for 2. My goal as a stylist is to build and establish a great relationship with anyone who sits in my chair. Read More>>
Cornell Woolridge
After spending much of my life in politics, civic engagement and non-profit management, I noticed it felt like there was a disconnect between non-profits effectively serving communities and communities needing to be served. I created CivicSolve as a way to connect communities in need with their collective assets and resources provided by non-profit organizations and elected officials. Most recently, I worked with a disability advocacy group out of El Paso and over the last two years, I have seen this group go from rarely speaking in trainings, to working with El Paso’s City Council on a City Proclamation and paid internships with various city departments. Empowering others is the very best thing I do in my work as a civic engagement consultant. Read More>>
Lane Milne
We started getting into barbecue around 2013. We saved up money doing classes and caterings to build out our spot. We opened up in February 2020 just before the Covid pandemic. In October of 2021, we landed at number 1 on Texas monthly’s top 50 list! Read More>>
Sabrina Siebert
I graduated with quite good grades, this college being sort of a pay-to-play system like so many others, and absolutely nothing else to show. However, despite being wayward, in over my head, and something of an alcholic at this point, my only-child syndrome made me very eager to please which has always translated into me being a hard worker. It has been my saving grace more than once. Determined to make good on something of my family’s investment in me, I got myself together over the next couple years and broke into the specialty makeup and costume industry where I at last found a group of likeable weirdos and artistic misfits like I fancied myself to be. Read More>>
Jack Morehead
We have been in the produce business for four generations in Texas. Our father’s operated many farmers markets throughout Texas. My wife and I operated a store in The mid cities when Grapevine approached us asking if we could operate the outdoor market in 2010. We fell in love with Grapevine and it’s wonderful community. We opened the indoor market in 2014. Read More>>
Ciara Hager
While I was studying my undergrad degree, I began searching for the reason why I was so passionate about music. I started to learn which time periods/eras and genres of music I was interested in. I started experimenting with improvisation, and was fortunate to be apart of some jazz classes for non-majors that my school, the Eastman School of Music offered. I found myself steering towards music that allowed me to be creative and had an itch to explore more. Read More>>
George Boyd
I was visiting my sister in LA, just after graduating with a film degree from UNT. While there, I saw a one-day video editor job posted on Craigslist and thought, “Why not?” As the trip wound down, I sat in the LAX terminal, waiting for my flight back to Dallas, when my phone rang. It was the Craigslist ad. Read More>>
Srujana K
Growing up, I’ve always enjoyed various forms of creative expression and art ranging from drawing, painting to music, dance, fashion and theatre. From the age of six, drawing came naturally to me and my art teachers encouraged me to never let go of this gift. But as life unfolded, creative pursuits were no longer in sight, as the pressures of wining the ‘rat race’ pulled me away from my creative path. It was not until after grad school that I realized the need for creative expression. I started drawing again while sharing my art, thoughts, perspectives and snippets of my creative journey through a personal blog – Aura with Writing. Read More>>
Jeaniffer Okugbeni
Though I doubted my place in STEM, especially as a woman of color, I leaned into the challenge. Driven by curiosity and determination, I graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of Dallas with a Master’s in Cybersecurity in 2022, earning certifications like CompTIA Security+, CySA+, and AWS Cloud Practitioner. Despite having imposter syndrome at times, I’m grateful to have found my place as an information security engineer at a Fortune 500 company, where I help create safe, resilient digital spaces. Cybersecurity demands constant learning, but knowing my work contributes to our digital safety is incredibly fulfilling. Read More>>
Jack Olea
After one of the hardest and challenging years of my life I finally moved to Dallas to start over and put down roots. I started working with my uncle who has working in construction for more than 20 years. With him I learned everything about building codes, tools, materials, standard dimensions, construction process and safety procedures, and I acquired the skill in most of the construction crafts. As an artist I always felt attracted to the art of architecture, design and construction, so I found the passion for what I do really quick. Read More>>
Summer Zehra
My journey with Samson’s Kitchen began long before I started simmering our first batch of bone broth. As a daughter raised in Pakistan, New York, and Mississippi, roots came from our deep connections with each other. I watched my mother lovingly prepare panjeeri—a delicious postpartum healing food full of nuts and ghee—for new mothers in our community. This ancient wisdom of nourishing those who nurture became deeply rooted in my own understanding of care and community. Read More>>
Brenda Hudson
My journey is just beginning. As Romans 12:6-21 says, God has given everyone unique gifts, and I believe mine is creativity. I’ve always loved drawing, making animations, voice acting, and creating silly videos. While adulthood can shift our focus, this year I’ve committed to getting closer to God, who has shown me my path. I will strive to be obedient to His word and trust in my journey to become an influencer. Even when I have no knowledge of where it’ll take me. Read More>>
Kayla Jimenez
This happened in February of 2022. I didn’t make any more cookies right away, but I did continue watching cookie decorating videos and discovered more techniques and fun designs that really held my interest. Our neighbors loved the door cookies and kept encouraging me to make more, but I really wasn’t sure. A couple of months went by and my husband was set to graduate with his masters degree in May. By that point, I had long forgotten the intensity and time-consumption of the door cookies, and, at the same time, felt really inspired from all the videos I had been watching. I decided to give it another go and created some cookies for his graduation celebration. Read More>>
Lauren Gastorf
I credit the origins of my career path to a soccer injury I sustained when I was 14 years. My knee was in bad shape, leaving me unable to walk. After surgery, I was in a full leg cast and had to use crutches for six weeks before beginning a lengthy rehabilitation program. I had always been an active person and this was the first time in my life I was restricted in movement and activity. On top of that, soccer was my passion and a big part of my identity at the time. I experienced depression and disordered eating as a result of the disruption the injury caused in my life. Read More>>
Aggie Margil
I began juicing daily, my symptoms resolved, I had more energy and I noticed other benefits including healthier digestion and glowing skin. I was excited to share what I discovered with others. Read More>>
Lashonna Wilson
My mission was to create pieces that capture imagination and embody artistry. Sometimes, I even add abstract leather accents to shoes/boots for a unique touch. Today, I’ve embraced my calling as both a creator and an artist. Last year, I left my position in nursing management to pursue this dream full-time, allowing my soul to be nourished by creativity. Life is short, and I’m determined not to leave with any regrets — I’m here, making art that feeds my spirit. Read More>>
Rachael Semans
Although based in Plano, Texas, Passion serves coffee all over the DFW area. The goal of Passion Coffee Co. is not to reach a specific number, but to provide a sense of community, intentionality, and connection that goes beyond the cup. “By focusing on quality and personability, I hope to achieve a brand that exemplifies comfort, warmth, and excitement to remind you of the love that is greater than I, or any other person could show you. This has only been possible through the grace and gift that my Lord, Jesus Christ, is to me.” -Rachael Read More>>
Marianna Guzman
I decided to open a lash Studio and work vey hard to make it happen. I knew with my experience what people was Looking for in eyelash extensions and did a big research to find high quality products with amazing retention and amazing customer service. Beauteous lashes has its own line of product all with the best quality in the market. I import my product from 4 different countries and I have found the best products available. Our 1st year anniversary is on December and I couldn’t be more proud of all we have accomplished so far. I want to give Special thanks to my family specially my husband. My staff is amazing too and I could be more proud of your support for Beauteous Lashes. Read More>>
Isis Arce
Without hesitation “OF COURSE” and I made a life change. I started my fitness journey off thinking it would help me gain clarity which it did. There was a much bigger plan at work. Many watched my transformation physically and spiritually so from there I decided I wanted to share my love and passion with the world. I just want everyone to experience the same joy I do and that is why I went into business for myself and I am coming up on 2 years. Read More>>
Yaneth Marmolejo
If it wasn’t for an assistant principal at my middle school sending out an email to the staff, I wouldn’t have gained a couple of loyal customers and all the support from people in my school district. That initial support from my assistant principal and family really gave me the confidence and motivation to keep going and expand my business. Read More>>
Hannah Haarala Jones
Following the rapid growth of J1S’s talent division in 2021 and 2022, discussions of acquisition with Wasserman began in 2023, sparked by their interest in entering the creator industry. Ultimately, Wasserman acquired J1S in the fourth quarter of 2023. As we enter the second year at Wasserman, the team has continued to expand significantly in both roster and personnel. Wasserman’s increasing presence in the creator industry is becoming more impactful each day, further solidifying their relevance in this dynamic space. Read More>>
Tenisha Harris
I started my business back in 2016, as it was only apart of my healing process, after losing my son a few years prior to neuroblastoma cancer at the age of 2 years old. What started off as just a hobby for me, later became my obsession and pride and joy. Three years ago, we decided to rebrand the business and change its name to LoveTAB, Naming the business after my late son, Tariq Anthony Butler. We also learned how to perfect our homemade caramel, in which we take pride in our delicious and creamy flavored non sticky caramel. Since then, we’ve participated in numerous markets and events. We provide whole caramel or candy apples, apple slices, turtle candy and pralines. Read More>>
Alonna Dixon
I started out as an engineer but wanted more fulfillment and looked towards something that brought out my creative side. That’s when I found photography and feel in love with it. It started out with me taking photos on my phone and doing small edits. I would take those photos and post them on a small instagram account I made. Shortly after, I moved to Dallas and officailly started my photography career without any community here. Creating community in an area can prove to be difficult at first, but it eventually happens. Now, I have been able to make my passion a career. There are times it gets hard, but I wouldn’t trade it back. Read More>>
Haley Guilfoile
Since then, I’d estimate I’ve produced a total of over 250 unique paintings. I tend to be quite prolific- I’ll paint as much as time allows, which is never enough for my liking. I’ve currently got 3 works in progress in my living room, which is not uncommon. Bless my super supportive partner Michael and my daughter Clementine for putting up with my constant creative mess. I’ve had opportunities to collaborate with the Dallas Mavericks, Jeremiah’s Ice, Downtown Dallas Inc., Deep Ellum Art Co., I’ve done custom work for New Found Glory, Blueprint University, I’ve done a handful of solo exhibitions.. it’s honestly been a whirlwind. Read More>>
Meredith May
This business which started in my guestroom has grown into opportunities where I decorate for family parties, Run Celina races, Town of Prosper community events, grand openings for local businesses, and City of Celina Gift Tour. While I still operate out of my house I am grateful to be able to pick-up my kids from school and not have to be on the road traveling for work. While I do not know where the Lord will lead this business I am grateful for what He has provided thus far and for the ability to meet so many wonderful community members and businesses and celebrate them all along the way. I am grateful to serve my community and I am always here for the party! Read More>>
Ashley Jenkins
After my divorce, I faced significant financial setbacks and the responsibility of providing for myself and my three wonderful children on my own. It forced me to take a new approach to money—I needed it to work for me, to create stability and a legacy for my kids. That experience inspired me to create Emerald City Money, not just as a business but as a movement dedicated to empowering others to take control of their finances, protect their assets, and build lasting wealth. Read More>>
Myeisha Martinez
Location was also something we were wary about in the beginning. “Location, location, location.” is what you hear everyone say all the time, and when we first opened our doors, we were worried our space would be impossible to find tucked away in the back of the office park. However, that major fear was relieved, because honestly, we couldn’t have asked for a more serene and quiet location. It actually ended up working in our favor.
Also, this industry is very uncertain. As an employee, I knew to prepare for slow periods, and I took this with me when I became a business owner. What I didn’t realize was that I would be wor Read More>>
Sivashankari Vijay
After moving to Denver, I found joy in the blogging community and used this as an opportunity to learn more about technology, which led to the launch of my website, Unijou, in 2020. On Unijou, I share insights on travelling with kids, women’s wellness, and interviews with immigrant Indian women entrepreneurs. Driven by my passion for learning, I also ventured into video editing, creating over 150 family-friendly travel videos on my YouTube channel, also named Unijou. My husband helped me to learn technical aspects and My son provided voiceovers for more than 100 of this video., showcasing places to visit around Dallas and nearby states with kids. The joy of learning and implementing new skills has been incredibly fulfilling. Read More>>
Toshie Lucas
When my son’s channel ended, my husband suggested I start my own. Since I’ve been a Costco member forever, CostcoTV was born in 2023. I didn’t expect anyone to watch, but here we are! My amazing followers—and my family, who double as my crew—keep me going and laughing through the tough moments. Read More>>
Jessica Monsivais
In my personal life earlier this year, I wanted to refocus my fitness journey by turning towards more accessible workouts. Something that has become increasingly difficult to do with mounting prices and a commodified fitness industry that made me shift back to basics. In my search, I found running clubs and immediately loved the concept of bringing people together out in nature. Being more of a walker myself, I wanted to join a space exclusively for women that allowed us to feel that we had safety in numbers as we went out for strolls. After failing to find any local, active walking groups, I decided to fill that gap myself. City Girls Walk Dallas was then formed and had our first walk in May 2024. Read More>>
Ryan Ebersole
I’ve been very blessed with my career in Real Estate. I was able to get my business up and running relatively quickly which was great. That said, I’ve experienced my fair share of challenges as this business is ever changing and there are so many factors that are out of your control. The one thing I can control is the hard work and effort that I put into my business. I truly believe that working hard will pay off as long as you are consistent every single day. Read More>>
Adam Warshaw
I don’t believe any road in business is a smooth one and ours had it’s challenges. We tried to begin construction in 2021 and were met with multiple delays. It was during a time in construction that our development was low priority, so we waited a solid two years for construction to be completed. Owning a restaurant in general will always have obstacles. We’ve been fortunate to have a great staff, but you have the initial turn over, menu creation, ordering supplies and lots of upfront costs. Read More>>
AJ Aguirre
My journey started with a deep-rooted passion for finance, which I pursued through my undergraduate and graduate studies at St. Mary’s University and Texas A&M. After working in real estate finance and development, a pivotal conversation with my mother – who runs a bustling pediatric practice – led to the creation of Aguirre Medical Group. Her pediatric practice performed well, but she struggled to run a business and simultaneously provide patient care. I saw this as an opportunity to learn healthcare management while helping out my mom. I also realized the sustainability in growing a business like this by helping out other physicians like her. Despite facing personal challenges, including a battle with stage-four lymphoma, I’m proud of the progress I’ve made in building Aguirre Medical Group. Read More>>
