Society has its myths about where we learn – internships, books, school, etc. However, in our conversations with some of the most interesting and trailblazing entrepreneurs and creatives we noticed the biggest lessons they learned about work often came from unexpected sources. We’ve shared some of those responses below.
Indra Persad Milowe
My artistic journey began in my youth, nurtured by the encouragement of my high school art teacher, Mrs. Helga Mohammed. Mrs. Mohammed, a native of Madrid, married to a Trinidadian, left an indelible mark on my artistic perspective. Read more>>
Carrie Boone
Growing up I was blessed to live in a two parent household. I remember watching my dad get up faithfully every morning to go into his 9-5 job, a job he worked for over 30 years before he passed. My father always taught me to have a great work ethic. Read more>>
Megan Alyn Brumlopw
The people who have taught me the most about my line of work are other musicians. Watching how dedicated they are to their craft has shown me what real discipline and passion look like. Musicians spend countless hours practicing, creating, and perfecting their sound — often without immediate recognition or reward. Read more>>
Kourtney Perry
The biggest lessons about work and life came from my great-grandmother and grandmother, who raised me. They were strong, loving women with hearts big enough to care for everyone around them. My grandmother was the definition of dedication. She was active with United Way, the church cook, and a constant caregiver for children in the community. Read more>>
Noelle Anzivine
I grew up watching my dad run a business with his brother, so many of my earliest childhood memories were spent at his workplace. My siblings and I would spend entire days there while he worked and from a young age, I learned the value of hard work and dedication. Read more>>
Erica Howard
My parents are some of the hardest workers I’ve ever known. I didn’t realize the struggle when I was growing up, but looking back.. my parents were hustlers. They constantly worked their asses off to get ahead. I’ve helped my mom with paper routes (back when people still got paper newspapers, lol) and my dad hanging duct work on Saturday afternoons. Read more>>
Izzy Singer
My parents. They have some of the best work ethics of anyone I’ve ever met. Sometimes to a fault. They both work as freelancers so I have seen the resourcefulness and motivation that goes into that lifestyle in America. Our economy thrives off of freelancers but unfortunately I do not feel that it makes it easy to be one. Read more>>
Larry DeSpain
My father taught me the most about the value of work and the ethics required. He was a teacher with six children and at times had three jobs to support our family. He taught by example as well as sharing experiences and insights. Read more>>
Stacy Cook
What taught me most about work started on a farm in Lexington, Kentucky. Long days, real responsibility, and fixing what broke taught me grit and that last 10 percent matters most. It is not just hard work. It is dedication, finishing the job, and coming back the next day to do it better. Read more>>
Kiesha Lamb
Whew! I’ve been learning and relearning about the concept of work for my entire life, from family, friends, mentors, young people, the greater society and especially through history! Read more>>
Dana Edward
My father taught me about hard work and perseverance regarding a career. I witnessed my dad work over 28 years in the school system and constantly change the lives of countless students. He always showed up for his students and developed a reputation of being dependable. He taught me that you’re only as good as your word. Read more>>
Nikeya Young
Oh, my DAD for sure! He is currently retired (something I NEVER thought he’d actually do), but I have NEVER met anyone who works harder than he did! From my father, I have learned that no matter where you are STARTING from, hard work is the greatest equalizer. Read more>>
Gisemonde Moise Menard
I would say my husband has taught me the most about work. He’s not only my life partner, but also my mentor and business partner. From the beginning, he believed in my vision and pushes me to think bigger, work smarter, and lead with confidence. Read more>>
