We were fortunate to catch up with some brilliant artists, creatives and entrepreneurs from throughout the Houston area and they share the wisdom with us below.

Lydia Schembre | Photojournalist

One of my favorite quotes/affirmations is “you deserve to take up space”. I think this applies to a lot of things in life but I find myself needing it most when I am at a sporting event. Games can be hectic and crazy and sometimes you can find yourself being overwhelmed and feeling like you don’t deserve. I have found myself so many times looking at the person next to me and comparing my camera to theirs or seeing how many instagram followers they have. Especially in basketball, you can find that space is really limited, but that doesn’t mean I need to get up or move. I have had to remind myself that someone picked me to be at this game and I am deserving to be here. I deserve to take up the space I need because I have just as much of a right to be on the sidelines as anyone else. Read more>>

Brad Davis | Oil Painter

The pursuit of being an artist or any sort of creative occupation is all consuming and requires complete and total immersion. Working for an employer from 9-5 meant that I was stripped of my own time management. As an independent artist, I often work well beyond that time frame in a given day but I have the flexibility to make my own schedule. This means that I can be at the studio until 4 AM if necessary or I could take a week out of state to participate in an artist residency. Read more>>

Mieshia Sakatsume | Nail Tech

Getting your nails done should be enjoyable, professional, and injury-free. I love getting my nails done. When I get my nails done I like to relax and trust the nail tech is doing what’s best for me. You should be able to trust your nail tech not to put you at risk of getting a nail fungus or expose you to dangerous bacteria. I wasn’t getting that at my local salon, so instead of complaining, I went and got my license and opened up my business. Read more>>

Chris Leneave | Social Media Content Creator, Model & Actor

Balancing my life as a social media influencer and creator has been a rewarding challenge. Over time, I’ve learned the importance of prioritization and effective time management. With commitments like travel and high school soccer, family, modeling, acting and school work, I have developed a disciplined approach to ensure I give my best to each area. Staying organized and maintaining a positive mindset has been key. Embracing each role with passion and dedication helps me stay balanced and find fulfillment in all my endeavors. Read more>>