Even if you are from the same neighborhood as someone else, you might still be coming from different places. Where you are from is a complicated question and it elicits complicated, but interesting and thought-provoking responses. We’ve shared some of those responses below.

Valkyrie Musarra | Executive Vice President/HR Director

I grew up in Albuquerque, New Mexico and my Dad, Michael Bowlin was the acting President of Bowlin Travel Centers Inc. since 1974. I was in and out of the stores as a child and my Dad would send us in first to see if we were greeted and to check the cleanliness of the restrooms. We were always told stories of our Grandfather, Claude Bowlin, who founded the company in 1912, that he could sell anything to anyone. Read more>>

Luis Guerrero | Playwright and Stage Director

I was born and raised in Monterrey, Mexico. I’m very curious as an artist. I studied International Marketing at my university (University of Monterrey) but I had a bunch of optional classes with very interesting topics like philosophy, theology, psychology… and even astronomy! I think all of these classes were very helpful in broadening my vision of the world. Today, I consider my writing very special because I believe it combines very existential themes, sometimes social issues that happen in my country, with drama and comedy. In my city, we value work a lot, so with each new project I always try to work hard and do my best. Read more>>

Michaela Gutierrez | Yoga Facilitator

I am from Southern Arizona, born and raised in the desert! Both of my parents were entrepreneurs, so I was brought up with that mindset. I have always found my work ethic to be much stronger and more focused when I am working on my own passion projects vs clocking in at a job. I think I have always equated working for myself as a kind of freedom. Read more>>

Deniss Suhhanov | Tattoo artist

It is generally believed that environment around person affects him/her, but on the other hand I tend to think that this environment is built around you as you develop in your field. I was born in a small town on the outskirts of Estonia. As a child I saw my father drawing and, as befits a child, I took an example from him. Read more>>

Merrick Gallegos | Blogger +. Content Creator

I am from Berthoud, Colorado a small town about 45 minutes north of Denver. My parents were a wonderful example of a strong and faith-filled marriage. This past week, they just celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary. Both my mom and dad had a tremendous impact on who I am today. Read more>>

Lisa Crite | Herbalist

I was born and raised on the West Side of Detroit, MI, surrounded by strength, love, and resilience. An artist from birth, I’ve always had a passion to create, heal through the creation of natural remedies, connect through the creation of art, express through the creation of dance. I grew up in a God-fearing family, which shaped who I am today. I came from a family of entrepreneurs, leaders, and innovators. God used many people to mold me and to them, I am forever thankful. Their connection to God, strength in who they are, acknowledgement of their worth, and love lives through me. Read more>>

Mollie Leivars | Filmmaker

I grew up in Derby and Nottinghamshire in the UK and currently live in Kent. My family have always been my biggest supporters and I would not be the person I am today, nor would I be doing what I am lucky enough to do were if not for my parents’ support, guidance and backing! Read more>>