We asked rising stars from the community to open up to us about their end goal. We asked them where they want to be, professionally, by the end of their careers and have shared some of those responses below.

Sean Welch | Poet

I’m trying to be remembered as one of the greats in poetry. I hope my poetry, my craft lives beyond me. I hope that I influence others with my words. I hope that on your Mt. Rushmore of poets, my face is one of them. Too many niggas wanting to be subpar with they craft. I am trying to build a brand that will set the standard for the next generation of artists. Read more>>

Jason Damico | 2x Carolina Music Award Winner, 12x GRAMMY® Considered Artist, Actor, Producer

When I was younger, I always wanted things to manifest in such specificity. As time goes on, I’ve realized that it’s easier to allow and let things unfold from more of an “enjoyment” frame than one necessarily goal-oriented in nature–although goals are important. In other words, for me the ultimate goal is to just enjoy whatever I’m doing to the fullest while contributing positively to society. I’ve found that out of that frame comes more healthier motives and also makes the quality of whatever I’m producing better. Read more>>

Chris and Jon Fuller and Flynn | CEOs of Dreams To Reality Music Group

The end goal is to make DTRMG a label and entertainment entity that helps liberates creatives from the stresses of the music business. Creatives want to create, and they want to be able to trust their team to make business decisions in their best interests at all times. At the end of our career, we (Chris and Jon) would like to be remembered for the opportunities we’ve created, taking care of our family and loved ones, and helping the next generation of creatives put their art out to impact the world. Read more>>

Michael Patterson | Abstract painter and video producer

In 2014 I began painting while continuing my video production career of nearly 25 years. As painting transitioned from hobby to profession I tuned the craft, growing, challenging myself to evolve. Becoming a painter later in life forced me to project new challenges inorganically. I felt my growth had to accelerate to make up for the lost time, the days I neglected the voice in my head to work the canvas. Earlier the phrase artist conjured images I wasn’t ready to accept until my work began evolving. Meaning, rarely did a single style command my studio time. for long I wanted to grow, especially remembering a comment I made during art school “imagine us here in our 20’s where will our art be in our 70s.” Read more>>

Anne Pell Harkness | Artist

The end goal is the same as the present goal. I paint what moves me, inviting and trusting God will join me in the joy of painting. These paintings are my offering to a troubled world. Read more>>

Cali Floyd | Creative, CEO & Entrepreneur

End goal? That is something I ponder daily. The end goal for me, is to be at peace, happy and abundant. I would like to be successful in all avenues that I am exploring currently, as well as a brick and mortar for Cali Chaos Customs. I am into fitness training, motivational speaking and I have a strong love for technology. Professionally, by the end of the year, I would like to have my store, be a traveling personal trainer and run a side business for troubleshooting/fixing computes, phones, etc. As long as I keep my eyes on the prize, my goals will be achieved. Read more>>

Sabrina Baker | Owner/ Lead Teacher of Creative Xpressions Preschool for the Arts & Owner/Lead Instructor of Creative Tots Art & Playgroup

My professional end goal is to continue to create a space for families of all diverse backgrounds and economic statuses to have a non-judgemental place where both children and adults feel cared for, listened to, safe, and supported. My dream is to open up a community center where I can provide Childcare services, Senior care services, and social services for families who need assistance and do not qualify for government assistance programs. Read more>>

Joylyn | Human, Entrepreneur, Inspirer, & Joy Enthusiast

The end goal for myself, my businesses, and The Funk! Creative Community is to provide sustainable lifestyles long beyond my existence. Creating unity through diversity is an ongoing project that started long before my existence and will be carried on with or without my influence. Therefore, I am just doing my best to ignite a flame in those who may be running low on fuel and build a beautiful, safe, warming fire of positive growth and desire in communities around the world. Read more>>