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.

Maxwell Bouton | Photographer

I was born and raised in sunny San Diego. As the youngest of three brothers in my family, I always found myself tagging along with my elder brothers to go surfing or skateboarding. San Diego with it’s diverse cultures and traditions, and it’s captivating beaches, landscapes, and outdoor activities. Has given me endless inspiration and I’ve always enjoyed documenting that. Read more>>

Alex Julian | Illustrator, Muralist, & Street Artist Fizix””

Growing up in the foster care system, I tended to move around quite a lot. My favorite location while in foster care was San Fransisco in the 1980s. During that time, fantasy movies were a huge early inspiration for me. We are talking Ghost Busters, Ninja Turtles, Labyrinth, Batteries Not Included…the list goes on and on. Read more>>

Brooks Welch | Founder of Soul Sugar Joint LLC and Clutch Branding LLC

Like DeBarge, I was born and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan. As a child and grandchild of music lovers who exposed me to Motown, James Brown, Earth, Wind, & Fire, Patrice Rushen, and Gospel music, I came by the concept of Soul Sugar Joint honestly. I’m grateful for the family reunions, cookouts, bonfires, church services, and radio stations I was exposed to as a kid because I wouldn’t have the taste I have now without it. I credit my background and upbringing to my family. Read more>>

Amber Delgado | Powerlifting Coach

I grew up in Oceanside with a severely handicapped little sister, so I’ve always been a caregiver and I feel that helped build my appreciation for celebrating the success of others, nothing makes me happier than watching my clients achieve things they didn’t think were possible. Read more>>

LaSheena Wilson | Owner of Soarbae Candle Co.

My upbringing has shaped who I am today as well as the candles and self-care products that I create. I grew up in a small rural city in North Carolina called Beulaville, as the youngest of four, I had a big imagination and always loved to be creative. Growing up in North Carolina is where I discovered my love for nature, and the beauty of it. Read more>>

Donnell Hilliard | Barber

I’m originally from New Orleans, Louisiana. My father was in the U.S. Marine Corps so most of my childhood, I grew up in North County. I attended Buena Vista Elementary, Valley Junior High School, and Carlsbad High School until my parents divorced and I moved with my mom back to New Orleans at age of 14 after my freshman year, which was when my mom decided to give me my first pair of clippers to cut my own hair. Read more>>