Connect Who or what is your inspiration in business?

My inspiration in business comes from my passion for photography and my desire to tell meaningful stories through my work. As a professional photographer from the South Side of Chicago, I am inspired by my community, the people I meet, and the moments I capture. Despite having a learning disability and hard-of-hearing loss, I stay motivated to grow my business and inspire others to follow their dreams.

How do you stay motivated?

I stay motivated in my photography business by remembering my purpose—to capture powerful moments and tell real stories through my lens. Living with a learning disability and hard-of-hearing loss has made me stronger, more determined, and more focused on my craft. These challenges shaped how I see the world differently, giving me a unique creative vision that allows my photography to stand out, inspire others, and connect deeply with people and my community.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Grant funding would support the growth and sustainability of Camera Nerdy Shoot LLC by investing in professional marketing tools and targeted social media advertising to increase brand awareness and attract new clients. Funds would also support accounting and bookkeeping services for strong financial management. In addition, the grant would help purchase essential photography equipment and supplies to improve service quality and deliver high-quality images to clients.