The heart of our mission is to find the amazing souls that breathe life into our communities. In the recent weeks, we’ve had the privilege to connect with some incredible artists, creatives, entrepreneurs and rabble rousers and we can’t begin to express how impressed we are with the incredible group below. Check out our favorite stories from across the Voyage family.
Akaash Chandra
Piano was different, because I never practiced. I couldn’t read the sheet music, I could only play by ear. One day, my teacher brought out a full-size MIDI keyboard and asked me to plug it into my computer. We opened GarageBand, and my teacher showed me the stock orchestra sounds the software came with. After a couple of months, we were creating weird arrangements of songs we liked. I stole my dad’s iPad to use the mobile version of GarageBand, watching YouTube tutorials on recreating popular songs. Towards the end of sixth grade, I began my journey into producing music. Read more>>
Kimberly Archibald Russell
Since 2018, MY VILLAGE YOGA has also established a Yoga Alliance Registered Yoga School 200 hour yoga teacher training program. We specifically share our yoga experience to prepare individuals passionate about sharing the practice in their communities. Our training is unique as it is owned, operated and managed by certified yoga therapists. Read more>>
Cameron McAdams
The Japanese have a word called “Ikigai” which translates to “ a reason to live”. My motivation is to love what I do, to earn an income doing what I love, and to have artistic freedom and expression in my work. I hope that when people see me with my business it inspires them to follow their dreams as well. I know that if I won a million dollars in the lottery tomorrow, I would still get up every Saturday morning at 5:30 AM and serve coffee at the Oxford Farmers Market. Read more>>
Julia Webb
Shortly after graduation, Julia worked for a small wedding photography company, the experience proved invaluable. She learned extensively about the wedding industry, strengthened her technical skills, and built a strong portfolio that helped pave the way for future opportunities. This was the job that confirmed her love for wedding photography and solidified her goal of pursuing it as a full-time career. Read more>>
Carol Bonner
She assessed the patient and the family, matched an appropriate dog, arranged for any medical needs, secured food, toys, beds, etc. – took care of all needs. In the end, the patients and families expressed that they not only felt they received a gift but also knew that they had rescued a shelter dog. Within the community of a family, hospital, and Carol, a wonderful collaboration began, and Pets for Patients began. Read more>>
Amanda Mckenzie
I started my career in 2003 and started specializing in curly hair around 2008 when the salon i was working at brought in a curly hair product line and realized my hair was a curly as it was when I was curly My hair with a curling. I have more devoted a lot of my time and business to teaching people how to love their curly hair Read more>>
Phoebe Sloan
Fast forward, and after 10 years at Tonic, Nancy and I found ourselves full circle with an incredible opportunity to open our own wellness studio. Despite the unfortunate passing of Steve, the dream to open a family yoga studio lives on, as we honor him with the name Parting Clouds Yoga. We also honor Deborah, as she since passed away, with the spirit of her vision to create a thriving wellness community continuing with us. My mom and I have been able to employ many of the same instructors, and have been blessed for the community of clients that have followed us to PCY. We most recently were able to transform the space with updates, and to add Barre classes, where we have grown the community even more. Read more>>
Kristi Watson
Fast forward to 2024, I gave birth to my son and made the decision to leave my professional career at a Cleveland law firm. Becoming a stay-at-home mom gave me the opportunity to step fully into my role as Executive Director of the JADFA House. It’s a role I’m deeply honored to hold, and one I often share with my son right by my side. I’m passionate about normalizing the idea that moms can lead, serve, and build something meaningful while raising their children at the same time. Wherever I’m found working, it’s not unusual to find my little one close by, learning, growing, and being part of this mission. Read more>>
