Who or what is your inspiration in business?

My inspiration in business comes from the idea of building something bigger than myself—creating opportunities for others while investing in my own dreams. Photography started as a passion, but it quickly became a platform where I could help models and creatives gain confidence, build portfolios, and access opportunities they might not have otherwise. Knowing that something I build can positively impact others pushes me to keep growing and turning vision into reality.

How do you stay motivated?

What keeps me motivated is seeing how far I can go with what I’ve started. Running a business at 17 while balancing school has taught me discipline, persistence, and responsibility. Every shoot, publication, and collaboration reminds me that progress happens through consistent effort. I’m driven by the challenge of continuing to grow my skills, expand my businesses, and prove that young entrepreneurs can create something meaningful and impactful.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Receiving $25,000 would be immense for launching larger projects and accelerating the growth of my businesses. I would reinvest it directly into building a stronger creative studio environment—upgrading professional camera and lighting equipment, expanding production capabilities, and funding bigger collaborative shoots. It would allow me to create real portfolio opportunities for emerging models and creatives through Aiden W Photo and AW Modeling, giving new talent a place to create, and