Every overnight success we’ve seen has been years in the making. And those overnight successes are rarely because of an amazing idea or a stroke of luck. We asked some of our favorite folks from the community about what characteristics are at the heart of their success story?

Isabel Contreras

For me, the most critical factor behind my organization, Mi Gente CA’s, success is staying true to my values and showing up authentically. In a rapidly changing world, it’s easy to get lost in the hustle and bustle of building and scaling a business. However, my unwavering commitment to my guiding principles and Mi Gente CA’s core values of inclusivity, compassion, and empowerment has been instrumental in keeping me centered and focused on our mission. Read More>>

Chris Morris

The biggest factor behind my success has been learning to get out of my own way. I used to think, “Once I get this, then I’ll do that,” but that mindset kept me stuck. Instead, I’ve learned to embrace opportunities with a balance of analysis and intuition—staying strategic without overthinking, and moving forward with a sense of optimism and adventure. Success isn’t about waiting for the perfect moment; it’s about doing as much as possible with what you have and trusting that the rest will fall into place. Once I adopted that mindset, doors started opening—opportunities, collaborations, and the confidence to take bigger risks. Read More>>

Megan Wasniewski

I believe the most important factor behind success is commitment. Staying committed to your mission, your goals, and values. I have had the honor to help run DANCE START, a direct program of The Samuel Lawrence Foundation that brings dance education to underserved youth in San Diego, and my commitment to this program is derived from my passion for dance. I am an artist, dancer, and educator and I believe everyone should have the opportunity to learn and experience creative expression through the arts. DANCE START brings free classical ballet and creative movement classes to Head Start Preschools and Title I elementary schools through out San Diego. We are committed to bringing the joy and discipline of dance to children in our communities. Our program is successful and continues to expand due to the dedication and commitment our team brings to program. Read More>>

Mathias Karlsen Björnstad

It is the strive to always be curious and to explore possibilities for new collaborations. Our interest in new music and working with interesting artist, composers and stages give us always and idea that we are moving forward. instead of sitting and waiting for possibilities to come we make them happen. Read More>>

Emily

At the core of what’s worked for me—and for Wave Makers Group—is this ability to make things feel less overwhelming for our clients. Branding, technology, operations… these things can often feel disconnected or overly complex. I’ve found that I’m good at helping people step back, see the bigger picture, and approach it in a more strategic (but still human) way. We aim to simplify the hard stuff without ever watering it down—and when we get that right, it’s incredibly rewarding. Read More>>

Zifei Ding

I am a seasoned branding and visual communication designer, has dedicated years to refining brand identities through compelling visual narratives. By merging creative vision with strategic design, the designer has consistently elevated brand stories to new heights. Read More>>