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.

Brennan Villarreal | Chef and Podcast host

I’m from Long Beach California. I grew up with my parents separated and I mostly stayed with my mom. Which is my Filipino side of the family. I’d say where my interest in Filipino food came. I wanted to learn more about my culture. Read more>>

Katie Tessier | Miss Los Angeles County

Growing up in an adopted family that spanned three continents – Asia, Africa, and North America – has profoundly shaped my worldview and instilled in me a deep appreciation for the richness of diversity. Within our multicultural household, I was exposed to traditions, variety, and perspectives that constantly enriched my understanding of the world. I learned to embrace and respect each cultural facet. Read more>>

Omar Mandozai & Yesenia Lopez | Founders

Broom & Beyond is a family-owned cleaning company founded by Yesenia Lopez and her son, Omar Mandozai. Yesenia was born in El Salvador during the civil war and came to the United States in search of a better life. She started cleaning houses to support her family as a single mother, and her dedication and hard work quickly earned her a loyal clientele. Over time, her clients became like extended family members, attending important life events like her naturalization ceremony and Thanksgiving dinners. Read more>>

Justin Edmonson | Co-Founder/ Artistic Director of XclusivMovement Foundation

I was born in Long Beach, CA, but I spent most of my childhood in Arizona & Texas during my adolescence. It wasn’t until 2001 that I started junior high and was exposed to the art programs that were offered along with the additional exposure of going with my cousin, who was a part of Debbie Allen’s Dance Academy (when it was located in Culver City). High School and college broadened my horizons as it pertains to choreography and teaching dance. Read more>>

Charlene Hsu-Rodriguez | Tattoo Artist

Originally from Texas, I was raised by an immigrant family in Southern California. Growing up, I loved drawing and playing pretend. My favorite things to imagine myself as were an artist and a teacher. Eventually, I received my Bachelor in Art, and also two teaching credentials in both Latin and Art, and a Masters in Latin. I taught high school Latin for 6 years (in both California and New York), but it wasn’t until a few years ago that I realized teaching had been a career that my parents instilled on me. Read more>>

Cassandra Hutchinson | Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

I grew up an only child around mainly adults. I felt this impacted me by seeing how people interact. I was not talked down to as a child. This helped me to form my own opinions. I was allowed to think for myself and speak up. These values have helped me with my own clients. I want my clients to be able to set their boundaries and be heard. I have always wanted to help people even as a child, with goals of working in the helping field in some degree. Read more>>