Those of us who were lucky to have someone see something in us long before we saw it in ourselves know how impactful it can be. We are thrilled to highlight some of those stories and honor some of the OG heroes.
Paula Goforth

I believe my family saw the potential in me long before I fully recognized it myself. I’ve always had a creative side and a deep love for capturing memories—not just for me, but for my loved ones. As our family grew and I became a Nana my beautiful daughters encouraged me to take that passion more seriously and pursue photography in a bigger way. Read more>>
Nora Maria Garcia

Honestly, a lot of my dance coaches, wether it be the first time working with them or the 100th time working with them, part of their expertise is being able to understand how you are in order to coach you better and some have understood or caught things about me that I’ve never seen or thought about. Read more>>
Suzy Mighell

My followers! During the 10 years that I’ve been a content creator, they’ve asked me to write a book! I always said no, explaining that there were already many excellent books on the empty nest out in the world. Many friends, family members, and followers were persistent, faithfully staying after me and asking. Read more>>
CAVONO

My step mom for sure. She is the most accepting woman I have ever met. I could tell at a young age that she always wanted the best for me way before I even knew what I wanted for myself, and I still struggle with that. Read more>>
Makolako Kromah

Long before Makolako could see herself, Masangie Kromah saw me. My sister was a haven for me; she never spared my feelings and I loved that about her, she held me responsible for everything. Read more>>
Magdiel Sagastume

No doubt it was my wife, Adriana, who saw the real me before I could see myself. When we first met, I felt like nobody with nothing to offer. We began as friends and spent five years growing together. She knew we’d have to build everything from scratch—and all along, she believed in me even when I had nothing to give. Read more>>
Starr Marie

My late mom who was a hair stylist of 30 years actually encouraged me to go to Esthetician school, never knowing I would be one of the TOP Waxers and estheticians in Dallas ,Tx and Las Vegas ,Nv. My mom noticed as a kid when I would be giving my sisters and cousin At home spa days every Saturday. Read more>>
Maryam Jawad

In childhood, it was my father who saw me clearly before I could see myself. He always believed in my strength and potential, even when I didn’t. That support shaped my confidence early in life. Later on, my husband became that person—he has supported me unconditionally since the day we met. Read more>>
Darren Roberts

Definitely my grandparents. I went to live with my grandparents at around 18 months old. My mom had some issues she had to work through, and her parents willing stepped up. I was loved beyond words. My grandparents ensured I had the best education and always let me have the freedom to discover whatever I wanted. I was a very… eccentric child. Read more>>
Jenee Salako

My mom saw me clearly before I ever really saw myself. She recognized my potential long before I did—especially in moments when I doubted my abilities or felt uncertain about my path. She saw my passion for dance, my creativity, and my leadership qualities, even when I couldn’t fully name or own them. Read more>>
Emily dunn

My parents hands down have always been supportive of me! If you know me, you know how close I am to my parents. We didnt grow up having a ton of money but my parents did everything to provide for us. When I first started out, I had to use my uncles old dinosaur of a camera and a kit lens. Read more>>
Trang Nguyen

My husband, Charles, saw me clearly before I saw myself. He believed in my strength, creativity, and ability to build something meaningful long before I had the confidence to pursue it. When I doubted myself or felt overwhelmed, he reminded me of my purpose and stood by me without hesitation. Read more>>
Niki Guasto

My husband saw me clearly long before I saw myself. He believed in my vision, my talent, and my potential at times when I was still second-guessing it all. He’s been my biggest supporter — encouraging me to dream bigger, take risks, and never settle. Read more>>