Leyla Chavez
Being an only child, I have always loved children! I nannied through school, and then went on to design high end nurseries after college. With a BA in visual art and a minor in business from USD, I later decided to combine all of my experience into a boutique named So Childish. Read more>>
Cory Stier
I’m the talent buyer / booker of a 21+ music venue in San Diego called Soda Bar. We also present shows at other venues around the city such as Casbah, Irenic, Belly Up, Music Box, Che Cafe, etc. I’ve been at the helm for about 7 1/2 years now – I love my job. Read more>>
Jennifer Eve Thorn and Callie Prendiville
Jennifer (Executive Artistic Director) is one of the founders of MOXIE Theatre. She received her BA in Theatre from the College of Santa Fe in New Mexico. After university, Ms. Thorn moved to New York to work with the renowned Off-Broadway Vineyard Theatre as assistant to the general manager. Read more>>
Dan Baer
I grew up in Akron, OH and was quite active in local youth groups and programs as a kid and teen. Each summer during college I found myself returning home and avoiding internships by working at camp. I started as a lifeguard and climbed the ladder a bit. Read more>>
John Atkinson
I studied Computer Technology in college, earning two degrees in that discipline at Purdue University. I worked in software development for 27 years, creating software, and managing software engineering projects. Read more>>
Amanda Maldonado
San Diego based nonprofit, Pup Package was created when founder, Amanda Maldonado knew she didn’t have the space to take in foster dogs but still wanted to help. After much planning and support from family & friends the thought arose, “Since I can’t foster, I want to help serve those, who serve dogs!” Read more>>
Samer Khouli
Been in San Diego most of my life, went to elementary school here after my family moved to the states from Syria. Went to Serra High School and then Christian Heritage College in El Cajon. Started my company about 7 years ago to help companies manage their freelancers, gig-economy people. Read more>>
Tawnee Gomez
My childhood was not the same as most, I was raised by multiple family members, and bounced around to different homes and homeless shelters. Growing up I was always trying to escape by being creative. I loved to draw, paint, build, and design. Read more>>
Nancy Maldonado
My desire to take a leadership role in my community was fueled during graduate school where I dedicated my thesis work to improving the lives of high school students recovering from substance abuse. I created a team that helped to secure funding for a residential high school in order to develop a comprehensive health and physical education program. Read more>>
Mike Jiang
I started my first business 3 years ago right here in San Diego. Long story short, it failed after 1 year and left me in a very rough spot in life. I eventually got back on my feet working for other people but I was crippled by fear of another failure. I still worked harder than anyone else I know to learn everything I can in the industry. Read more>>
Tamara Donayre
I started my waxing studio, I thought of my idea for a waxing studio in 1998. The idea came to me while I was working at Spa and Nordstrom at the flagship store in downtown Seattle. As I was working at the spa, I noticed there were lots of request from men (Gay and straight) for various waxing services in different areas of the body that weren’t commonly waxed at the time. Read more>>
