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.
Paige Simpson
There was also a part of me that was a little afraid to get going with a photography business. I didn’t really know where to start. One day I decided to take my camera out of the box and I charged up the battery. I practiced a lot and I watched more YouTube videos than I can count. I taught myself how to use the camera, how to edit photos, the ins and outs of a photography business, all of it. My first actual session for Paige Simpson Photography was a photoshoot of my beautiful cousin who modeled for me. I worked so hard on that session from scouting a location, to the poses and editing. I couldn’t wait to share my work and when I did it boosted my confidence. I continued scheduling photo sessions and the rest is history! Read more>>
O’sharrah Daniel
DAB’s Eatery’s journey has not been smooth sailing. There has been hiccups throughout our years of operations with the main obstacle of losing our food trailer in 2021 due to unforeseen circumstances. But with any business there is 50 order days and there is 5 order days; that’s the risk you take entering into entrepreneurship. As being the owner , I love everyday of it. We are back like we never left. Read more>>
Tyler Meksavanh
If someone who owns a small business says it’s been an easy and smooth road/process, they’re lying to you. I have had many obstacles throughout the years, from equipment breaking, to personal sickness/injury, to my work trucks going down, weather being bad, there’s always something going on! Even though we have been hit with little challenges here and there, we still manage to push through the adversity and get things done! Read more>>
Dezaire Bishop
Starting over in a new city, knowing no one, I really had to build my business from scratch. I didn’t have a clear plan—I just winged it. I saved up from my paychecks, slowly bought equipment, and trusted myself and my skills. Now, almost 3 years later, I have no regrets. There are definitely a few things I wish I’d done differently, but every experience has brought me to where I am today, and I’m so grateful for the journey. Read more>>
Dora Tramel
But this fight is not just mine, it belongs to the human race because every one has faced this one time or another. Therefore, I created a culture of acceptance, love and education with my businesses and within my life. That is what God put us all here to do but sometimes we forget even myself. That is why we need a culture on earth. Working in restaurants with a melting pot of races, learning EACH INDIVIDUAL PERSON’s story not just taking them at face value added fuel to my entrepreneurial fire! Read more>>
Dr. Cyntia Brown
I’ve had my own health battles—dealing with hormonal imbalances, and after giving birth, facing postpartum depression and anxiety. Those moments were some of the hardest, but they also deepened my empathy and understanding of the women I serve. I know firsthand what it feels like to be overwhelmed by your body’s changes and to feel like you’re struggling alone. That’s why I’m so committed to what I do—helping women regain control of their health, understand their bodies, and ultimately, achieve the motherhood journey they dream of. Read more>>
William Campbell
Initially, I focused on building CRM systems for companies, but in doing so, I uncovered a deeper need—nonprofits were struggling with strategy and structure. Through continuous learning, hands-on experience, and participation in various cohorts, I refined my business model to what it is today: a consulting firm dedicated to helping nonprofits and businesses build sustainable, impactful strategies. Read more>>
Andrea Castro
We’re known for our attention to detail and our ability to adapt to each client’s unique needs. What truly sets us apart is our blend of creativity and professionalism, ensuring that each design is a true reflection of the client’s vision. Additionally, our versatility allows us to successfully handle everything from celebrations, like birthday parties, to high-level corporate events, always exceeding expectations. Read more>>
Janellie Maldonado
I didn’t just want to detail cars, I wanted to change the way people think about their driving environment. A clean car isn’t just about looking good, it’s about feeling good, breathing cleaner air, and riding in a space that’s actually good for you. I started from the ground up in Dallas, putting in the work, building a reputation, and showing clients what real detailing is all about. The vision took off, and now we’re in Raleigh, gearing up to take this nationwide. Read more>>
Krystal Hsiung
Over time, I realized my passion for design and human interaction, which led me to pursue a master’s degree in Interaction Design. That decision changed everything. I transitioned into tech, specifically UX design, where I now create intuitive digital experiences that bridge technology and human needs. Read more>>
Dr. Marta Torres
Alongside education and the arts, I followed another passion—esthetics and wellness. I initially went to BMG University to earn my esthetics license, but during that journey, I was nurtured into becoming an instructor, allowing me to pair my love for education with esthetics and wellness. Now, I am a Master Esthetics Instructor at BMG University in Garland and the owner of Academe Esthetics, an exclusively mobile spa service, which I run from West Dallas. My expertise lies in customizing skincare for my clients, tailoring treatments to meet their unique skin needs and goals. Read more>>
Ashanti Powell
Of course! Everyone’s content creation journey is unique, but when you’re just starting out, you quickly realize how different it is to navigate social media as a creator and influencer rather than just a consumer. Content creation is truly a form of entrepreneurship! Since starting in 2020, the road to securing paid collaborations, monetizing content, and staying consistent has been challenging. But despite the hurdles, I’ve been fortunate to land some incredible opportunities—making every step of the journey worthwhile. Read more>>
Ariel Taylor
My financial journey began in 2015, navigating the world of investments and insurance. But I soon discovered my passion for empowering people through strategic tax planning. For nearly a decade, I’ve helped clients save thousands, escape debt, and build financial stability. I’m obsessed with mastering tax law and finding innovative solutions. My mission is to guide clients toward financial peace of mind. Read more>>
Jahnasia Booker
My name is Jahnasia Booker (Jahnasia B.). I am a neurodivergent, multi-disciplinary creative. I have always been creative. Since I can remember, I have been crafty. From writing to designing clothes, to directing & filming documentaries, to interior design, I enjoy the process of bringing things to life. My most recent projects include Ancestral journals focused on helping neurodivergent folks manifest the life of their dreams; and document messages from Spirit and their Ancestral guides. Now that I have successfully created and launched said journals, I am taking time to rest and restore before I embark on my next project and/or adventure. I’m learning that resting is a radical act of self-care and it is not optional, especially as a creative and neurodivergent woman. Read more>>
Amina Sultan
That same blind faith guided me when I was given the opportunity to come to the U.S. My children and I lived in a women’s shelter. At the shelter I was able to have a safe and comfortable home where I could get back up on my feet. In one of th exercises at the shelter, I was encouraged to write down my dreams. I wrote about owning a business and ensuring my children had the life they deserved. I worked three jobs at a time to keep food on the table while studying to get my U.S. nursing license. I started in home health, driving hours to visit patients, and worked my way up until I was able to start my own home health business. Years later, I expanded into hospice care, honoring the deeply meaningful work of supporting families during their most difficult moments. Read more>>
Astro Giirl
My name is ASTROGIIRL, I am a loyal member of The Fronto Favtory. I am a singer-songwriter. I started making music about 6 years ago and have been enjoying the journey ever since. Read more>>
Lola Denwe
That love for people eventually led me to become a registered nurse, and I graduated in 2016 with an amazing class of nurses. While I truly enjoy caring for others, I always knew there was more I wanted to do. I’m a creative at heart—I love DIY projects, designing, celebrations, and learning how to bring new ideas to life. I spent months trying to figure out how to merge my passion for people with my love for creativity, and that’s how Youtopia Events and Rentals was born. Read more>>
Jannely Alvarado
Today, my focus has evolved, and I’m deeply passionate about fashion, portrait, and ministry photography. I love capturing the essence of a person or a moment, whether it’s the intricate details of a fashion shoot or the genuine emotion in a portrait. Ministry photography, in particular, has become a special area of focus for me, as it allows me to document meaningful moments and create powerful images that tell a story of faith, divine connection, and love. Read more>>
Matthew Smith Jr
To be transparent not in the beginning when I left college because getting paid to be myself was a feeling but I did not have a plan or explanation as to how I was going to accomplish that goal. My most in important struggle and what inspired my brand is that I did not know who I was on the inside I couldn’t comprehend the process to most of my thoughts and actions to even begin to articulate in words why I felt I wanted to get paid to be myself. These were my greatest challenges and that’s why everyday it gets smoother. Read more>>
Matthew Gallagher
As we left for college, distance became an obstacle for our group, but through various trips and countless experiences, we grew stronger together. Eventually, we overcame distance when Matt and Griff got an apartment together in Fort Worth, Texas. During that time, we began standup comedy and made the decision to create a podcast. Though Jay was in Connecticut, we were able to bring him in virtually as a pillar of the show. The show proceeded like that for two years until Griffin moved to Minnesota in July. Read more>>
Viktoria Branchstone
What sets my art apart is the way I integrate these natural materials—not just as decoration but as the foundation of each piece. Every artwork is built around a found object, whether it’s a weathered branch, dried moss, or textured bark, making every composition one of a kind. The process is very intuitive—I let nature guide the design while experimenting with texture, color, and flow. Read more>>
Justin Kempf
One of the challenges I faced was being prescribed benzodiazepines for anxiety and sleep, but eventually, it stopped working. Realizing I couldn’t rely on medication any longer, I made the difficult decision to stop taking it. The withdrawal was tough my fight-or-flight response was constantly triggered, and I was in a state of chronic anxiety and depression. I could barely leave my house. However, after several years of exploring holistic remedies, I finally started feeling better, and that’s when I knew I wanted to focus solely on natural healing methods moving forward only considering medication if absolutely necessary. Read more>>
Maya Gist
I founded Dream 2 Journey to help people experience the world in a purpose-driven way. Travel has always been a passion of mine, but for a long time, I wasn’t fully committed to my business. When I first launched Dream 2 Journey a couple of years ago, I struggled with consistency and passion—honestly, because I didn’t have God at the center of it. After stepping away, I felt led to rebrand- not just as a travel agent but as someone who helps make travel more accessible than people realize. Read more>>
Julie Ngo
It has definitely not been a smooth road and I do not want to hide that fact. Some struggles that I experienced was comparing myself to other small businesses and wanting to give up. Comparison is indeed the thief of joy and I came to the realization that everyone is at their own pace and so am I. Another challenge for me is time management. I am a full-time student, which is why I require at least a weeks notice for an order. Unlike a job, I typically have piles of homework or projects assigned that also affect my time and availability at home. Read more>>
Lori Cuadros
Even adults buy them for themselves. We thought of a few ideas but we came up with the rubber duck. They are cute, collectible and make people smile. They’re perfect for all ages. I came up with the concept and menu items and my son came up with the name. After a lot of success with the truck, we decided to open a store. We have received amazing feedback from the community and we’re so happy to be a part of it. We have hosted birthdays, scout events, car club and many other types of events. We have already held some community events and fundraisers. Read more>>
Cameron Edwards
When entering the real estate industry, you’re often told that the first few months will be tough as you build your pipeline and find your footing. I was fortunate to find success early, securing my first client and apartment lease within my first 30 days. However, there are still times when business slows down, and it can be challenging. Read more>>
Jeniffer Morales
Hi, my name is Jen and my journey has been far from where i thought i would be today. First and for most i would like to thank God because my life has been a little crazy but i know he’s led me in my path and has blessed me through the years. Growing up in a Hispanic house hold, Education was always a big deal especially for my parents. They always talked to my sisters and i about studying hard and going to college to have a secure and good job ahead of us. Read more>>
Elise Bissell
Texas animal shelters are currently overwhelmed with unwanted dogs and cats and often closed to intake which results in unwanted dogs being dumped – typically in rural areas. Other organizations like DSDA struggle to find enough fosters and adopters. The gap between available dogs and potential homes is significant, compounded by a lack of spay/neuter enforcement and breeding regulations. Thankfully, many generous individuals and businesses continue to support nonprofits like DSDA. Read more>>
Tejaswini Kumar
With his constant encouragement, I started LifeWithTeju—a small space on Instagram where I talked about food, travel, and the little joys of life. What began as a personal outlet turned into something bigger—people started connecting, engaging, resonating with my experiences. It was my first real taste of storytelling, of building something from scratch, of creating impact. Read more>>
