Atlanta is a city ripe full of talent and hustle and has slowly become a hub for entrepreneurs looking to carve out a name for themselves. Six entrepreneurs stood out from the crowd this year and were nominated for the 6 extraordinary people award by Tequila Herradura. Secret Atlanta was invited to get an exclusive chance to interview these spectacularly gifted locals.
On Thursday, Apr 6, 2023, Secret Atlanta interviewed these honorees to discover the secret to their success and how they have overcome obstacles within their profession and support systems outside of their initial friend group. These entrepreneurs shared with us how to keep going and the importance of paving the path not only for themselves but also so they can create an easier path for those coming behind them.
The Extraordinary People Class of 2023 included Cam Kirk (celebrity photographer), Travis Love (Creative Visual Artist), Marina Skye (Creative Director & Set Designer), Matthew Riggs (Mixologist), Christian Wills (Chef), and DJ Stormy (DJ). As Secret Atlanta sat down to get acquainted with everyone, the talent radiated off each of them. Each sure of their place, passions, and journey.
Matthew Riggs (Mixologist) states that he is inspired by Beverage Director Randy Hayden of Slater Group. Riggs felt a kindred spirit with Hayden, being that they both started off on their journey in mixology in a similar manner. Seeing how Hayden started off in a restaurant much like Riggs, the vision for his future has expanded. DJ Stormy mirrored Riggs sentiment and shared that her inspiration came from someone a little closer to home, her mom.
Having been in corporate America’s, finance and business sector for 18 years, prior to pivoting to her career now as a DJ. Stormy shared that her mom had been in the music industry as well prior to having her children, so naturally, she felt a love and connection for that career path. She stated that she also wants to serve as an inspiration for the younger generation of girls, by letting them know that they can achieve whatever they want and do it without compromising their morals.
Last year’s winner, Melissa Mitchell, emphasized the importance of not giving up and taking her life in her hands, walking by faith, and doing what you love from the heart. Being that each of these entrepreneurs was nominated as a trailblazer, Secret Atlanta had to find out what characteristics make a trailblazer. What is the secret? Travis Love shared that temperament was a critical trait to possess if you want to consider yourself a trailblazer. Stating, “Having a certain level of temperament and not taking things personally. Being in control of who you are.” he continued, “And not falling into traps that may be set out for you. Some people want to see you fall, so being mindful of that and watching your temperament is important.”
Cam Kirk (celebrity photographer) said that he saw a trailblazer in a more literate sense. Discussing what that meant for him he expanded on what he meant, stating that “Someone that blazes a trail that other people can follow. It’s leaving the world better than it was when you had it. Making it easier for the next generation after that.” Kirk expressed the importance of blessing others while on his journey and leaving a blueprint for others to follow.
As the interview came to a close we discovered what 404 Day meant to a couple of the honorees. DJ Stormy highlighted the importance of how Atlanta has been so pivotal in who she is today, “Atlanta has literally shaped me”. Mitchell agreed and said, “Atlanta was an answered prayer”.
*wipes tears* Well Atlantans hopefully you are as inspired as us to go out and GET IT after sitting with these talented group of individuals. Leh go!