Where you grew up and your background can often have surprising effects on our lives and careers. We’ve asked folks from the community to tell us about how their background has affected them.

Taraneh karimi | Art Director

Living in Iran comes with numerous international restrictions, such as limitations on travel, international transactions, and access to the global market, including app stores. These restrictions, imposed both externally and internally, make it impossible to access international creative resources. This situation led me to a deep depression, feeling isolated and left out. However, it also inspired me to create my own indie game, rather than waiting for opportunities to arise. This experience has significantly enriched my life as an artist and influencer. Read more>>

Sandra Hurtault | French Vegan Chef

I am from Paris, France, and grew up in a very loving family. I had the privilege of being inspired by talented artists and cooks. France is a country rich in regional cultures and terroirs. I was fortunate to travel throughout the country, sampling local delicacies and learning from artisans about the ancestral methods used in creating food, liquors, and wine. This cultural heritage has greatly influenced me. As a chef, I strive to highlight outstanding organic produce and minimally processed ingredients, paying homage to our artisans and farmers. Read more>>

Kevin Wang | Solution Creator. Game industry professional

I was born in the vibrant city of Taipei, Taiwan, and at the age of 14, I embarked on an incredible journey to Costa Rica to study for 3 years and eventually making my new home in the United States. After living in each country for quiet sometimes, I realized the cultural differences were vast between 3 places, everything from work ethics to media, culture and communication styles was unlike anything I had known. Read more>>

Austin Swint | General Manager of The Whiskey House

I am from a small town in the panhandle of Texas called Muleshoe. Well, technically I’m from many small towns in the panhandle of Texas as my mom moved my brother and I all over the area during our childhood. She had a difficult time deciding what she wanted to do for a profession so as she tried different professions they usually meant relocation. I call Muleshoe home because that is where my maternal grandparents lived and I spent more time there than anywhere else. Read more>>