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.

Laure Braconnier | Artist & Laure B. Paintings founder

I am from a rural area in Belgium which I believe is one of the reason I developed such a creative side as well as a strong need to connect with nature and my inner self. From the youngest age, I remember leaving the house with a drawing pad and a pencil in the hope to find the perfect little corner where I would feel relaxed, peaceful and ready to let my imagination run wild. Whether it was on top of the pergola in the backyard, in an open field or deeper into the woods, I would feel that the fresh air and open views without a soul around were truly helping me to breath in and disconnect from the rest of the world. Although, after moving to San Diego, the green sceneries were replaced by ocean views and majestic desert landscapes, this “ritual” which almost became a need is still something that keeps me grounded 25 years later. Another reason must be my father’s genes. He was a pretty talented painter in his spare time and I most likely inherited some of his gift. A childhood infused with nature and combined with the full support of family and friends created a natural path to an artistic career. Read more>>

Alexandra Rae Danell | Founder

I grew up in a small farming town on the Central Coast where the only traffic was from driving behind a tractor. My family lived 30 minutes away from town (lucky to find cell phone reception) which I didn’t mind it one bit until we ran out of butter and forgot it at the store. Horse back riding was my hobby and I spent every moment I could outside. I was homeschooled until Freshman year of high school and I credit my self motivation to it. Then when I started high school, it took me a while to make friends as the new girl, so I learned how to be independent and this has helped me be confident in attending industry specific events alone. I studied Agriculture Business at Cal Poly SLO, and it gave me the opportunity to succeed in the fresh produce industry. I focused on marketing and as a result got my first job with a carrot farm in San Diego. As I gained experience, I saw a need for marketing the importance of agriculture to consumers and started Harvest Joy. Read more>>

Qui-Gon Jae | Recording Artist

I was born in San Diego, CA and was raised in numerous parts of the city due to moving around a lot. Moving a lot at a younger age taught me how to make connections and it also exposed me to many different types of people, way of life, music, etc. I’m grateful to be from here. Read more>>