Through our work we have had the good fortune of seeing firsthand how success comes in every shape, size, color, faith, and orientation. More importantly we’ve learned that success is often the result of people embracing their unique backgrounds and so we’ve asked the community to tell us about their background and how it has impacted where they are today.

Edla Prevette | Therapist for Children and Adults and Coach for Adult Children of Aging Parents

My husband and I are both from Raleigh and have lived here for most of our life. After college and a few years in Rocky Mount with his job we moved back to Raleigh and raised our two boys. Read more>>

Philista Gossett | Director of Services

After escaping a difficult marriage and being homeless for almost 13 years, I found purpose and community in church, which inspired me to give back. In 2018, I started the Bear Closet of Marion, with a youth group at a local church. The Bear Closet of Marion (Loving Hearts Bear Closet) is an independent non-profit providing necessities and emotional support to families in need. I think back on my experience overcoming homelessness and rebuilding my life to empathize with those the Bear Closet serves. Through tireless outreach and care for my community, I have grown the organization into a lifeline for local families facing hardship with the help of my board members. My story proves that with compassion and perseverance, we can lift up those around us. Read more>>

Alexus Pittman | Multi- Talented Entrepreneur

I am from Baltimore, MD. I grew up in a 90s and early 2000s hair salon environment. I got the inspiration to be as talented as I am by being around so many talented individuals and people who were bonafide hustlers. By seeing these people show up and be their true authentic selves it opened me up to the thought of doing things my way and this is how I became a business woman and artist. Read more>>

T. Alexis Byrd | Owner | Astylux Notary & Courier Services

Originating from Catawba County, NC, specifically Hickory, NC, I have a profound connection to my roots. However, my upbringing carries a distinctive twist due to my family’s extensive military background spanning an impressive five generations. This unique legacy was further enriched by my formative years spent being raised in Germany, a testament to my family’s enduring commitment to serve and the diverse experiences that have significantly shaped who I am today. Read more>>

Gwenyfar Rohler | Managing Partner, Old Books on Front St.

I grew up here, in Wilmington, NC. I began shopping at the this bookstore when I was 2 years old, the year it opened.17 years ago, the founder, Mr. Daughtry, called my dad and said he wanted me to buy the store. Our family life changed over night. My parents’ home library rivals several of the colleges I applied to attend. I almost never needed to buy books for school, as we already owned copies of almost anything that would get assigned in english, history, or philosophy classes. The book store is just a physical extension of the inside of my head. Read more>>