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.
Maggie Hall
It has not always been easy, starting a business and trying to break out in the artist world is an uphill battle and requires determination, hard work, and a village of support behind you. In 2021 I lost my dad to lung cancer, this was by far my hardest struggle so far in my career, I faced months-long artist’s block and found it hard to paint without him, however, I one day realized maybe painting would be the only way through my grief. I painted his cowboy boots, it was comforting. I soon realized boots were something I was familiar with, they were nostalgic to me. It helped me develop my current art style while also getting me through the process of grieving. Read More>>
Narecia Estes
A brief story about the brand and my educational background. I started Tan & Chocolate beauty and extensions around my senior year of college. From middle school to high school and then to college. I had been taking entrepreneurship courses. Overtime, I felt I did not understand the financial side and ended up getting a degree in accounting. I have been dedicated to the brands success since its inception.” Read More>>
Ta’rena And Tiah Jones
I was an occupational therapy assistant for 5 years and finally decided that I wanted my Master’s degree in 2019. 3 years later, I received my hood from St. Augustine in Austin, TX. Ta’Rena is a medical laboratory scientist. I have worked with all major hospitals in the DFW area and am currently working as a senior laboratory scientist in an oncology clinic. I’m a former travel lab scientist with 10 years of experience so it feels good to be stepping into senior roles. Read More>>
Marissa Alva
Exactly three years ago, I moved from Tuscaloosa, Alabama to Dallas. I wanted a new start for my personal life and felt Dallas was the place for me to be! I hold a bachelors and masters degree in theatre education, and was teaching middle school theater at the time when I moved. Unfortunately, this was around the same time I was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease. It took a physical toll on my body and I felt it necessary to leave the classroom after almost 10 years of teaching theatre, my first love. During my time away from the classroom I began to participate more heavily in my church- Shoreline City. Read More>>
Judith Garcia
I started my insurance career in 2008 after I became a single mother working for Paisano insurance at La Gran Plaza in Fort Worth, TX. I was literally trained for 4 days and then I was given the keys to run an agency on my own when I wasn’t even licensed yet. I had no clue what I was doing, but failure was not an option. I grew the agency but unfortunately, they couldn’t pay me on time so I then I left to go work at Amax. Read More>>
Emine Ademi
I was actually born and raised in the restaurant business…literally, my mother gave birth to me at my father’s first restaurant in the banquet room bathrooms. My aunt cut my umbilical cord with my father’s dest scissors. Sorry for the graphic content but needless to say I live and breath the business. My husband and I had 3 restaurants in Wisconsin, we first started at our Italian Restaurant in whitewater named Fanatico , from there we build our portfolio to a pizzeria then to a breakfast cafe. Because of my family’s background we are very versatile and can do it all. Read More>>
Leena Alexander
My approach is integrative where we work along side myofunctional therapists , neuro chiropractors , functional doctors to get our patients in balance . My primary interest is to educate especially pregnant moms about nutrition and its key role in development of fetus and help children with nasal breathing and avoid mouth breathing as it is so detrimental to their jaw growth and prevent downward spiral . I want to help patients BREATHE,SLEEP,REJUVINATE . This passion has led me to start DFW DEEPSLEEP AIRWAY TMJ which we hope to launch in november 2024 . Read More>>
Stone Mecca
One of my main struggles was I was a artist first so the time I would’ve loved to devote to my own personal growth was taken sometimes by making money through studio sessions and touring.. Another struggle was the hustle of the music industry itself. If you’re not something they can recognize or I guess what’s called cookie cutter it’s hard for unique artists to ever have their shot. Read More>>
Tameika Manning
Employees went from the safety of their homes and families to an open, unknown bubble of medical confusion and contagion and few took kindly to it. Our corporate environment became so combative, that employees became aggressive & were constantly at odds with one other. Harsh words were spoken, wars of words and actions occurred, and there was no longer l positive working relationships between employees. As a result of this turmoil, Upper leadership was summoned to our office to identify the issues and seek corrective actions, including the possibility of shutting down our office. At this point, I knew I had to step in. Read More>>
Miranda Alfaro
Being visibly disabled, and one of the few people in the music industry who use a wheelchair, let alone are photographers or those who use stage access quite often, its been an uphill battle of accessibility. But pretty much at this point, most venues in the DFW area have been pretty accommodating and willing to work with me since starting. I get told often I am “the first” to make them have these discussions. Read More>>
Kaitlin Siebert
Apprentice Creative Space started as a desire for a third space where we could build community with writers and creative artists in Dallas. This desire developed into a tangible idea when we stumbled upon the Oak Cliff Assembly (OCA) in 2021. Having recently graduated with my undergraduate degree (not in art), I was focused on painting and applied to exhibit at the Oak Cliff Assembly’s first-ever Art Walk. There, Apprentice co-founder Steven Monacelli and I met property owner AJ Ramler and property manager Haley Leavitt and fell in love with the history of the building. Read More>>
Leilani Wong
On top of that, I basically had two businesses in one with over 10 platforms to learn and manage, and just as I had finished setting everything up, I decided to merge them to simplify, which required tens more hours of background work to complete. Building my business has been one of the hardest things I have ever done, but it has pushed me out of my comfort zone and really empowered me to do hard things and persevere. Read More>>
Alex Porras
I started my barber career at Bonafide Barbershop in Dallas. After working there about 7 years, my wife and I decided to open up our own barbershop. We came across the Arcade Barbershop in Casa View that had been around since 1957 and met the owner who was ready for retirement and offered to sell it to us. Read More>>
Matthew Ellison
I’ve been passionate about entrepreneurship and software development for as long as I can remember. Growing up, we had a computer at home, and I quickly found myself experimenting with programming languages to build small games. That curiosity and desire to create have always been a big part of who I am. On the entrepreneurial side, I have early memories of selling lollipops at school for 25 cents each. I loved the challenge and excitement of creating something and sharing it with others. Read More>>
Veronica Petty
Our small urban micro farm is located in the southern community of Lancaster, TX. Simply Grace Gardens LLC has become a safe haven amidst the bustling city life. Our location allows us to provide a visual representation of sustainability and serve fresh produce directly to local consumers. Our farm utilizes various growing mediyums to maximize our growing space. Our farm consists of rows, vertical, raised beds, containers, and greenhouse. We have a dedicated seedling area inside, an irrigation system, and in ground compost to mirror nature to ensure a closed-loop, zero-waste operation. Read More>>
Ricky Rojas
Started training jiu jitsu due to being bullied in school, as I got stronger it became something I loved. Then I started to branch out other sports such as boxing and wrestling, and now it’s something I love doing everyday. Read More>>
Jaylynn Kirtley
I’ve learned so much in this last year about how to handle business and how to communicate professionally. I’ve been blessed beyond measure in so many ways. I started to doubt myself at the end of 2024. After many prayers, I was presented with a new agency named “ONSET Management” with a role as an Assistant stylist and seamstress. I am beyond thrilled to see how 2025 unfolds & how I can bless others with my gifts from GOD. Read More>>
Simon Okoro
As I experimented with various forms and media, I was guided by my self-taught intuitions, which propelled me to explore themes of self-analysis and introspection. My art became a profound exploration of the consciousness that resides within all beings, capturing both the beauty and the struggles of humanity. I also shed light on the injustices and abuses of power while simultaneously celebrating the remarkable beauty that coexists within our world. Read More>>
Kseniia Chursina & Aleksey Chursin
Our journey began in 2015 with STUDIO 2112, a creative agency dedicated to experiential marketing and brand communications. At the time, we aimed to bridge our passion for storytelling with the growing demand for meaningful brand experiences. Over the years, we built a reputation for delivering exceptional campaigns for high-profile clients such as Mercedes-Benz, Disney, PepsiCo, and many others. Read More>>
Moe Adam
When I first came to the United States as a student, I was driven to find ways to make a living. I started small—selling phones from store to store. I actually began by working at a phone shop for no pay, just to learn the ropes and build relationships. After earning trust, I started taking phone parts on consignment and selling them to neighboring stores. Eventually, I expanded to accessories and then to actual phones. Read More>>
Shane Woods
I saw how critical it is for marketing to communicate with development while making sure every dollar received impacts the overall impact being delivered to those we center in programming. While working for GSNETX, I participated in the inaugural cohort of the Black Women in Nonprofit Leadership. Thirty women leaders from founders to executive assistants came together in 2021 to receive support through self-care, community care, healing, personal and professional development which was all crafted to the specific needs of Black women leaders. Upon the completion of this program, I chose to find a better fit for my talents. Read More>>
Chelsea Rabroker
I had two big jobs post college one as a Sales Associate in a woman owned start up where I really learned a lot about starting a business and what goes into building a brand. The second I was a Merchandise Buyer for a Women Owned online plant business, it was there that my world of Agriculture and Retail blended. In the end I decided there was a lot of my own heart and soul going into a company that didn’t really feel like mine. I wanted that tangible product and visual that felt like a real extension of me. So in March of 2019 I left that full time roll to start Style Kalōn. Read More>>
Alexia, Andrea, & Alyssa Heist
We pride ourselves in the custom framing that all of our art has. The artistry and vision that framing entails is so detail oriented and a true journey! The three of us all have different styles, but that is the best part. We love going back and forth on matte colors and frame options until we find the perfect combination. Read More>>
Maria Baradell
My mom is a retired biology teacher who loved to cook and bake and she would turn anything into a biology lesson. Growing up I found that very annoying, but I somehow remember everything my mom taught me. That’s probably why I find plants and bread so fascinating (and why my bakery is named Leaf & Loaf). I remember having many lessons on how plants turn light into energy and oh-so-many lessons on how yeast operates to make bread rise, among many random biology lessons on the human body and really anything that’s alive. Mom, if you read this, I love you very much and I am so thankful for you! I’m sorry I was such a mean teenager! Read More>>
Harlow Haynes
Although Harlow spends a lot of time in the gym, she is also a full time 2nd grade student. She enjoys read, spelling, science, and P.E. During the summers Harlow spends her mornings on the neighborhood swim team. Her favorite strokes are butterfly and backstroke. On the nights she isn’t at practice she has play dates with friends or is often found playing school or playing Barbies! Read More>>
Cornell & Albonie Swann
The road is definitely not for the weak lol! Because we are self-funding our business at the moment, it’s quite a bit of a challenge. With a family of 4, we not only have to focus on household expenses but business as well. We have a supportive family and supportive friends that are great promoters of our business, and they will definitely tell the world that Notchamama’s Egg Sammich is bussin-bussin. However; my husband and I are people of great faith, and it only takes a mustard seed. So, we’ve planted that seed, and watering it with whatever resources we have! It’s going to blossom into something so great, and we can’t wait! Read More>>
Lawanda Crawford, MSN FNP-C
Professional, I have worked as a Certified Family Nurse Practitioner for 7 years. I have been in nursing for more than 25 years. I have held several mid-level and upper management leadership roles throughout my career. I have also worked at Magnet Designated hospitals such as Texas Health Resource and Baylor Scott & White systems. I started out as a certified medical assistant (CMA) shortly after high school. Read More>>
Amanda Sturgeon
When the company unexpectedly closed its doors in May 2024, I was heartbroken. At the time, it felt like the end of a dream. But as it turned out, it was the opportunity I never saw coming. Freed from the constraints of someone else’s brand, I was able to expand my permanent jewelry offerings, introduce a charm bar, and even design my own jewelry line. That closure became a pivotal moment—a reminder that sometimes, the end of one chapter is the beginning of a brighter story. Read More>>
Selina Cruz
After my own wedding, I quickly realized how much I loved the wedding industry and knew I didn’t want to leave it behind. What started as a side business to stay connected to the excitement of weddings soon grew into something far bigger than I’d imagined. I wanted to help couples create memories as special as my own, while also sharing my faith—and I decided to do that through custom event signage! Read More>>
Scott Linde
In the beginning, there were a few standard operating procedures for the business: It had to be simple. It had to be fun. And it had to be easy. This ethos has allowed the company to flourish with a minimal amount of business traumas. Sun Potion’s standards for quality sourcing have not wavered since the beginning days. We don’t cut corners in any part of the business. The business strategies are rooted in common sense and high standards of excellence. This has allowed us to avoid many of the pitfalls that other businesses may struggle with. Read More>>
Rowda Bake
In 2018, I felt the need for a creative outlet and turned to one of my lifelong passions—fashion. I started sharing my outfits on Instagram as a way to express myself and fill a gap I noticed in the blogging world. At the time, there weren’t many POC bloggers, and as a proud Middle Eastern (specifically Palestinian) woman, I wanted to contribute to changing that narrative and celebrating more representation. Read More>>
Nikki Knowles
In 2011, I gave birth to my first daughter and I had a great birth experience. It was from there that I looked into becoming a doula. After working as a doula for several years, I felt the calling to become a Midwife. As I worked through my apprenticeship and Midwifery school, I was still doing doula work full time. I passed my licensing exam in January of 2020 and I have been attending Home Births as a Licensed and Certified Midwife for 5 years. Read More>>
Janeva Peats
In college, I studied as a Communications major with a focus of Organizational Communication. As a young “20-something,” I went through a period of time, feeling lost and unfulfilled. Photography had been put on the back burner, but my passion was reignited in summer of 2019. My cousin Jai (@jailynandrea.visuals) and I would collaborate on passion projects for fun. I was reminded of just how much I loved being behind the camera, documenting everything around me. Lifestyle, fashion, the beauty of my surroundings and all the details in between. Read More>>
Kearra Porter
I started my career in 2017, dedicating myself to learning all the tools and techniques needed to excel in the hair industry. While in school, I realized my true passion wasn’t just about styling—it was about creating consistent, healthy haircare routines that my clients could rely on. Read More>>
Tina Diep
Now moved to DFW area to be closer to more advance treatment facilities and open a new Pink Ribbon Nail Salon in Colleyville to continue the fight. Most of the proceed from business are being donated to breast cancer research, Saint Jude’s hospital, and taking care of the less fortunate in Vietnam and the children at orphanages. Read More>>
Perla Perez
“The most important lesson I’ve learned along my journey is that perseverance, hard work, and dedication are essential to achieving success. Additionally, I’ve learned the value of teamwork and the importance of having a strong support system. But most importantly, I’ve come to realize that faith in God is the foundation of everything. He is the one who gives us the strength and guidance to navigate life’s challenges and overcome obstacles. Without Him, none of this would be possible.” Read More>>
Tina Van Houten
We custom made tables to eliminate the need for table linens to help cut costs for our clients. We also custom made a lot of our lighting and even our door pulls. We are definitely unique! Read More>>
Daja Musaddiq
So you’ll be surprised at first I actually thought I was going to be a fashion designer but as more time went on i realized I really don’t have a passion for designing clothes like I thought. I realized I like to do hair and I made up my mind , once i graduated Hight school I told myself I was going to cosmetology school, and once I start working a job and realized I had “9 “ W2’s because I could not stay at one job . I knew a job wasn’t for me lol . I love the hustle and I love creating a way for myself no matter how hard it gets! Read More>>
Kelsey Black
We use our store to amplify local voices and to give our community a space to always embrace their weird. Our goal is to build up the community that surrounds the bookstore and create a safe “third place” for all. The “third place” term was coined by US sociologist Ray Oldenburg in 1989. It is a place outside your home or work where you can relax and hang out. These places are where community is fostered, friendships are made, and ideas are discussed. Read More>>
Rick Lopez
But perseverance is gets you through all that. It’s not just about being a great dj or talented. I preach to all my younger friends about that all the time. Not ONLY do you have to be talented, But you also have to be a people person, know how to look, talk, act, be professional, also be a good person, ALWAYS have gratitude, know how to build and keep relationships, be knowledgeable, be and stay humble at the same time know your worth. Read More>>
Jill Weaver
When you’re a stay at home mom, part of you is longing to have something that’s just yours to present to the world as a personal accomplishment. I prayed about it, talked with my husband, and decided to make it happen! It was a full-time job that first month, figuring out how the cottage food laws work in Texas, gathering supplies, designing a logo, and building a brand. After I was somewhat organized, I started to sell at local markets on the weekends. I’ve had pretty good success and am starting to build a local clientele in the area. Read More>>
Katye Wasson
In addition to wedding photography, I bring years of experience in studio and on-location photography, offering tailored options to suit your specific needs. Whether it’s capturing the joy of a milestone, the intimacy of a family moment, or the elegance of a professional portrait, I believe every picture tells a story—and I am here to help you tell yours. Read More>>
Tiona Lynn
Looking back, it’s been a journey of learning to live authentically, whether that’s in my career, my blog, or the way I connect with others. My blog is a reflection of that journey, a space for connection and a reminder that none of us are alone in this whirlwind of life. Whether through a pep talk, a laugh, or a shared story, I hope readers leave feeling seen, inspired, and just a little more grounded. Read More>>
Zheng Lu
I discovered my passion for pencil sketching at a young age and always knew that my career path would lead me to the creative industry. My childhood is filled with fond memories of outdoor painting trips, spending entire days immersed in capturing the beauty of nature on canvas. Although I didn’t pursue a fine art degree or become a full-time artist after graduating, I found a way to channel my artistic roots into digital product design, where my sketching skills allowed me to visualize and bring ideas to life Read More>>
Rachel Derouen
Of course it has not been smooth road. There are so many challenges and heartbreaks that come along with trying to be an actor/filmmaker. Most people would say this, but trying to just survive and pay bills can be such a big hindrance. And trying to be an actor is expensive -headshots, breakdown services, classes, even networking. And what it doesn’t cost in dollars, it can cost in other ways – social life, mental health, quality of life. I’ve thought about quitting so many times I don’t think I could count, but that would be like trying to live without air. It’s hard to do it, but it’d be crushing, devasting not to. Read More>>
Rebecca Alley
Our practice was built with intention and we have invested ourselves in living out our core values of alignment, acceptance, and inherent resilience. We believe that each of our clients already has exactly what they need within themselves. Our goal is to create a space of safety, trust, and nonjudgment in order to reconnect our clients with the innate resilience within them. Unconditional acceptance is at the center of our work. Read More>>
