The Most Inspiring Stories in Utah

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.

Josue Garcia Ruelas

Fast forward now 1 year later I have closed 14 homes and I couldn’t be more thankful to God and all the families I have helped for all these blessings they have brought me. I am a first generation Mexican-American that went for my dreams and is completing them slowly as I go. I just needed to take that one risk to change the trajectory of my life. Read more>>

Carl Andreasen

After getting a degree in Social Work, I pursued my true passion in film-making and photography and quickly became a successful online content creator and documentary filmmaker with an audience of over 3.2 million followers. I have worked in tandem with the team at Skinwalker Ranch and the owner Brandon Fugal – leading to an appearance on the History Channel series “Beyond Skinwalker Ranch” Season 1 Episode 2 and a follow up in Season 2 Episode 1. My work has also been shown on two episodes of the Discovery Channel featuring a UFO sighting that was filmed as part of Project Hessdalen in Norway. Read more>>

Brandy Dial

I learn something new every time I shoot. I continue to improve by shooting often and challenging myself to do something I’ve never done (i.e., a pose, lighting change, prompt), every session. The best compliment I’ve ever received was from a client at my last wedding. They walked into a reception I was shooting and said to me, “I knew it was you shooting this wedding. I could tell it was your work.” Read more>>

Curtis & Melody Linton

When young parents enter the adoption community, they are often told adoption is all about love. While love is a necessity, love is not all that is required. White parents who make the choice to adopt are obligated to educate themselves about race, identity, and adoption-based trauma. Love is the beginning in adoption, but our knowledge and advocacy going forward are just what our amazing kids need from their parents. Read more>>

Christi Marie Litton

For clients it is often an experience of healing, people come to us to create art on their bodies but really we’re uncovering the expression these people have had trapped inside. It is truly a unique medium. Going into tattooing I didn’t have the understanding of what it really means to tattoo, but working closely with clients and seeing first hand how emotional of a process it is changed my whole view. Tattoo art is so important. It is looked at as taboo, weird, but we know it is a fine art, something we dedicate our lives to.  Read more>>

Preston Powell

Dance took me from the lowest point in my life, to some of the highest points in my career. I was able to perform professionally in countries like China, England, Scotland, Belgium, and the list goes on. While traveling as a dancer, I fell in love with capturing the landscapes and architecture of the different places we would go. At the time I didn’t have a fancy camera, and was only capturing images on my smart phone. They were really good for smartphone photos haha. Read more>>

Andrea Hardeman

In addition to working at Adobe, I have blossomed into a multidisciplinary artist and bestselling author. My work ignites healing through visual art, poetry, and music, crafting narratives that foster self-discovery and empathy. My work is featured in several galleries and museums around Salt Lake City, I’m a keynote speaker, and have had the honor of being a featured artist during the 2023 NBA All Star Games and at The Leonardo Museum three times. Read more>>

Pamela Olson

When I attended USU enrolled in the journalism department, I paid my way by working at flower shops, coffee shops and a restaurant. After graduation, it was only natural that I get a shop in SLC in a flower shop, while seeking my “dream” job as an investigative reporter. While working as a magazine editor for JES Publishing/Salt Lake Magazine as assistant editor, and later at Utah Homes & Garden magazine as editor, all the while I was designing weddings for friends, and practicing floral design in my home, but mostly as a hobby. Read more>>

Esther Merino

Though she practiced textile art as a hobby for over 40 years, it wasn’t until the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 that she began selling her work and applying to art shows. When Peru closed its borders and unable to go back to her country, she made a new home in Utah. Through her art, she stays connected to her Indigenous and Afro-Peruvian roots, sharing a piece of Peru with the United States. Welcomed by the Utah art community, she has discovered the true value of her ideas and skills. Read more>>

Rick Reeve

With that seed implanted in my mind I started assisting a friend that was a local high school coach. He eventually gave me a team. His Dad passed away a week before I was supposed to start coaching so training me was not on his radar. I remember the first day I coached my own team. He pulled back the curtain in the gym and there was my team of freshman girls, handed me a clipboard with their names, said “Good luck” and walked away. Read more>>

Trevor Hutton

Like any journey worth mentioning, it has certainly had it’s ups and downs. Fortunately I’ve been blessed by the people in my life and teammates of similar ambitions. Separating from a long established entity due to various differing view points isn’t easy for any organization but what the Roses have built and continue to nurture is nothing short of beautiful. Our community is based on respect and grit. While I give them a hard time as a coach and captain, I wouldn’t trade a single minute I’ve had with the Roses over the past year. Read more>>

Joshua Mohamed

Initially, we invested heavily in Shopify but faced challenges in driving sales. This prompted us to rethink our approach. To better align with our vision, we decided to pivot toward a print-on-demand (POD) model, focusing on seasonal and holiday-themed products with sarcastic, blunt, and relatable designs. Our spring-themed product line, launching in March 2025, will include 10 items inspired by dog personalities such as huskies, golden retrievers, German shepherds, rottweilers, and pit bulls. Read more>>

Jely Pino

I studied Social Work in my home country, and family and children have always been topics I deeply care about. When I moved to the United States, I was unable to continue my social work practice, so I had to find a new path. A friend noticed my artistic skills and encouraged me to try face painting—she gifted me brushes and paints, and that’s how I started what became my first business, Colory Faces. Read more>>

Santos Jaguar

In 1986, Santos Jaguar’s family moved to the U.S. and settled in Lancaster, California. They later relocated to Salt Lake City in 1993. Santos began rapping at 12 and started freestyling with hip-hop beats alongside a neighborhood friend. His debut single, ‘Bien Buena,’ co-released with another artist, received widespread exposure after Pelon from Caballos Del Norte gave it a world premiere, significantly boosting Santos’ career and earning him numerous critical accolades on radio and TV. Read more>>

Jennifer Nuttall

Like many people in nonprofit work, I learned through trial by fire. The first nonprofit position I took was as a volunteer – where I was continually given more and more responsibility. That turned into a full-time position as the Program Director for the Utah Pride Center. Shortly after being hired, there was a complete turnover in senior management. I had to learn to do it all – from my regular duties managing programs and fundraising to payroll, accounts payable, and facilities. It felt overwhelming, but I learned so much so fast and was able to broaden my skill set immediately. Read more>>

Elle Williams

I specialize in portraits. I think a big thing I am known for is of course my shooting and editing style, but mainly the experience of the shoot. It is supposed to be fun, and an experience to remember. I do everything in my power to ensure a constant natural smile on my client’s face, and the most comfortable experience possible. Read more>>

Jacqueline Whitmore

Mostly people know me from Copperhive Vintage, a small vintage clothing store and indie artist shop in South Salt Lake Utah. This is a big year for the shop, celebrating 10 years in business! I think thats so cool that a creative business can celebrate such a milestone! I’ve been excited recently about how the shop is evolving in the past couple years, we’ve added indie artists to our store front, and its so special to be able to curate the shops vintage offerings along side artists work. Read more>>

Heidi England

The name “Oopsie Daisy” came from a gentleman selling the brand, and I immediately fell in love with it, deciding to turn it into its own clothing line. Oopsie Daisy specializes in unique, one-of-a-kind swimsuits, dresses, and everyday children’s wear. Adorable Sweetness offers even more affordable clothing for budget-conscious moms who still want their little ones to look fashionable. Read more>>

Waleska M Dorante

During my university years, I started working at a well-known bar in my hometown, Barquisimeto, called Barrica Bar, a speakeasy-style venue. I loved being there. Initially, I worked as a barback, but through dedication and hard work, I gradually moved up until I earned my own station. I learned a great deal from my colleagues, who were patient and supportive. However, I always had a clear goal in mind: to establish myself as one of the best bartenders in the industry. Read more>>

Bianca Velasquez

Unable to make ends meet with the cost of living rising and my pay remaining relatively stagnant, I chose to leave SLUG and worked at the Division of Emergency Management as their Public Relations Specialist. Here, I conducted interviews about national disasters, managed their public campaigns, designed billboards, etc. for the last three years. While doing so, my art career had kicked into high speed where I curated, produced, participated in, and managed countless art shows throughout Utah. This includes being Gallery Manager for MICA, Mestizo Institute of Culture and Arts, for about a year. Read more>>

Alyssa Sharp

Sharp Whitening started from my passion for helping people feel more confident in their smiles. I first got into the teeth whitening industry in 2018 while working for another company, but I always knew I wanted to create something of my own. In 2022, I launched Sharp Whitening with the vision of offering a luxury teeth whitening experience that not only delivers real results but also prioritizes comfort and enamel safety. Read more>>

Abigale Palmer

Originally, I planned to pursue a degree in the medical field, and my studies in art were meant to serve as a pathway to that goal. But when I began my studies at BYU as an art major, I felt like a kid in a candy shop. It was like I was going to school to play and explore with ‘my paper and crayons.’ That experience solidified my passion for art and set me on the creative path I’m on today. Read more>>

Nikki Walker

Beyond her professional endeavors, Nikki is deeply committed to making a positive difference in her community. She serves on various nonprofit boards throughout the state of Utah, including the State Workforce Development Board, Utah Foster Care, The Children’s Center, The Road Home, The Utah Black Chamber of Commerce, and Women Who Succeed. Her active involvement in these organizations reflects her passion for empowering others and creating opportunities for growth and success. Read more>>

Johanna, Jennie, Kim Durham, Flor, Watts

Our names are Johanna, Jennie, and Kim, and we’re the executive officers for Secondhand Salamander, a creative reuse center. Think of us as a craft supply thrift store, offering sustainable, earth-friendly, and affordable art options. We’ve always had a passion for arts and crafts, DIY projects, and creating all sorts of things! We were frequent visitors at our local creative reuse center, Clever Octopus, and when it closed down, we were heartbroken. A year later, we realized that someone needed to fill the void, and who better than us? Read more>>

Katherine Maestas

Working in property management is never smooth, but I’ve learned that we can make it easier by controlling what we can and staying proactive. One of my tougher struggles has been learning the industry and adapting to the ever-changing nature of the multi-family space. However, this challenge has helped me develop strong problem-solving skills and a deeper understanding of how to manage and optimize properties effectively. Read more>>

Christina Galloway

I obtained my business license, food handler’s permit, and registered my cottage law business through the state. Now, I have a website, an Etsy shop, and I’m working on launching a TikTok shop. I’m also selling cotton candy in multiple local shops. I’ve learned a lot and expanded my business beyond nostalgic candies and cotton candy to include almost anything that brings joy to people’s lives. I create exotic custom leather earrings, to printing wedding invitations, to making personalized promotional items. Read more>>

Brandy Vega

By 2018, I had everything I had worked for. I was running a successful studio, helping businesses grow, and raising three kids—including a baby I had adopted from foster care who was born addicted to meth. At the same time, I was five months pregnant as a surrogate for a family who couldn’t have children. That was the moment I knew I had truly made it. Read more>>

Breekel Orton

I am a fashion designer and seamstress. I specialize in making patterns, sewing, fashion illustration, designing apparel, alterations, styling, use critical thinking when constructing the perfect garment and fitting the perfect garment. Understanding fabrics and how they work with the body and patterns. It take lots of practice and understanding what you’re doing when making a new garment and I’m proud with how far I’ve come and that I have an eye for it. Read more>>

Kami White

There were times when I felt overwhelmed and doubted my ability to keep going. But I was determined to make it work. I remember thinking, “If I can get through this, I can get through anything.” So, I powered through, finding creative ways to manage my time and prioritize my tasks. Read more>>

Jake Dreyfous

Restoring Great Salt Lake is more than an environmental crisis, it is a fight for our home. Dust storms from a dry lake-bed will impact the air we all breathe. The lake’s ongoing decline will devastate a multi-billion dollar economy that connects us to communities worldwide through the production on critical minerals, brine shrimp, and fertilizers that help feed the world. Let alone the 12 million migratory birds increasingly relying on Great Salt Lake, as similar habitats around the world decline and disappear. Read more>>

Alfonso Rei

From a very young age, I grew up surrounded by blueprints, heavy machinery and construction materials, which led me to train in architecture, design and project management. My emigration to Mexico with my wife allowed me to enrich myself with work experiences on large-scale projects, and two years ago, my father established operations in the state of Utah. Here, we continue to grow rapidly, taking our tradition of excellence to the next level, in a dynamic and constantly changing market. Read more>>

Anne Peters

It all begins with a little girl from the other side of the world. As we learned about her abilities, we soon realized her path was not going to be ordinary. Thinking ahead to life post high school, we wanted to provide a safe and meaningful center of employment for not only her but her peers. Many people with disabilities are seeking an opportunity to work, earn a wage and be a part of a greater community. Read more>>

Ryan Pilkington

My story starts when I was in middle school. Through the effects of being bullied, put down and labeled as the school loser. I found myself in dark times, thoughts and loneliness and even suicide found relief through art, doodling and drawing. I would create my own shirt concepts and logos for imaginary businesses. I dreamed of some day owning and running my own t-shirt business. This allowed me to escape into my own world and was able to through a lot of prayers and the willing to continue graduated from High School. From there I decided to get my Associate and Bachelors Degree in Computer Science/Graphic Design. Read more>>

Elizabeth Knight

As I got older I always thought I’d be a veterinarian. But the realization I couldn’t euthanize an animal was pretty strong. But I also was extremely good at making dogs do things others struggled to do. So I looked into being a professional dog trainer. I discovered Animal Behavior College after I’d done some work with dogs in rescue and was working steady with helping the rescue dogs make great changes. I finished the schooling and discovered started working with a trainer that I did an externship with. I discovered quickly she was more in it for the look and free things she was receiving from company sponsors she was getting and I broke off relations with her and went out on my own. Read more>>

Nicole Ferguson

I was blessed to work in this industry with both of my parents. In 2016 the furniture store I was working in became available for purchase and I jumped on it. I purchased this store. I had a dream of making it something that would be a huge benefit to our valley as well as a tribute to my parents and their legacy. It’s been a process to slowly change the store I purchased into the store of my dreams. I have hired the most talented staff that see my vision are we are all working hard at making our dreams come true. Read more>>

Darcy Doxey

I am so grateful for all of those families in the 4 years we lived in Florida that let me experiment, learn, and grow my photography skills through documenting their memories! When we moved to Nevada in 2019, I decided to officially turn my hobby into a business and Darcy Doxey Photography was born! My goal has always been to allow anyone to capture beautiful memories through photography no matter their walk of life or what budget they may have for photos. I loved growing my business in Nevada and continuing it after moving to Utah in 2022. Read more>>

David Sol

Of course, like music, Life has its highs and lows. My parents divorced when I was young, and while I spent time with my father for a while, those visits eventually faded. For some time, I was raised solely by my mom, a strong woman who taught me a lot about being a good person. Around the age of 9, I met my stepdad, who, to me, is simply my Dad. Both shaped who I am, and for that, I will always be grateful. Read more>>

Rosamaria Buono

I’m Rosamaria Buono, born in Salerno in 1990. I first picked up a camera at the age of fifteen, but it wasn’t until I was nineteen that I truly felt the passion and drive to take photography seriously. It was then that I knew I wanted to create, so I threw myself into learning and honing my skills. Although I’m largely self-taught, growing up during the rise of digital technologies and social media helped me gain a deeper understanding of my intentions and creative direction. This eventually led me to graduate in visual arts. Read more>>

Annie Pugmire

I would say the hard part is getting your name out there and building a brand. I was so young when I started. I didn’t understand pricing and the business side of things. One of the biggest struggles I had was imposter syndrome. Not charging what I was worth because of my lack of confidence in myself. Read more>>

Cassandra Murray

For the remainder of what has been my life until recently, I searched for ways to feel that same passion in things that I had felt being in hair school. I have had many walks of life, many experiences, many positions, names and titles. I have owned my own businesses in marketing and house keeping. I have been a real estate sales agent, closing 2nd place in my office within first year of getting licensed. Read more>>

Kristen Brown

Also as a woman, some people think you get booked for the ‘inclusivity factor’ on a lineup or just bluntly say we get booked due to our bodies… you just have to take all that with a grain of salt. Sure, it stings when things are said but laughing it off is just the best way to handle that type of situation in my opinion. Read more>>

Mark Thatcher

“Over the next 18 months, Dan’s vision blossomed into a family affair. Brothers, friends, and even his father joined the venture, each bringing unique expertise to the table. Ryan, a foot and ankle surgeon, saw the need for healthier options in his community. Josh Lovell, a neurologist, understood the importance of nutrition for overall well-being. Bruce, a retired bank president, provided invaluable business acumen. Tyler, with his marketing background, brought the brand to life. And Mark, with his long-held passion for nutrition and a proven track record in business leadership, stepped in to guide the company’s growth. It was a diverse team united by a shared mission: to revolutionize fast food with fresh, flavorful salads and wraps.” Read more>>

Jeff Jenson

I learned about driving in the sand. I broke my “new” jeep in just about every way possible, but a kind and trustworthy mechanic helped me navigate my errors and get back out in the sand without burying me with overpriced service. We would have never tried a business without knowing he’d take good care of us. We are forever grateful to M.D. Auto. I gave free tours to anywhere people would go with me for a year and a half. In that same time, Julie refused to drive in the sand, she’d rather hike?! We had some grand adventures, and met amazing people from all over the world. Read more>>

The Drought

But the story actually started years earlier—Griffin, Jackson, and Emmy all went to the same school. Griffin had first heard Emmy sing at a grade school talent show, and when the band needed a singer, he reached out to see if she was interested. She was, and after her audition in August 2023, she officially became part of The Drought. One last piece was missing: a bassist. Three months later, during a casual visit to Guitar Center, they spotted an ad from Maddex Atkinson, who was looking for a band. Intrigued, they reached out, set up an audition, and it just clicked. Maddex joined shortly after, completing the current four-piece lineup: lead guitar, bass, drums, and vocals. This third iteration of The Drought is the most solid it’s ever been—and they’re just getting started. Read more>>

Shauna Sampson

I’ve since travelled across the world learning from and working with world renowned detection trainers in the USA, Europe, and South Africa. Much of which she’s travelled with me for. We now work for private security doing bomb detection work, as well as for an environmental statistical company doing wildlife detection for conservation. I love being her handler. She’s made my dreams come true. We are based in Utah just outside of Salt Lake City, but travel much for work and also work with a variety of working dog people here in Utah. Read more>>

Sidni Shorter

As a transformational leader, I’ve consistently fused vision with action—acquiring and growing an accounting and finance firm for nonprofits and small businesses by 125%, then transitioning to my current role as President and CEO of the Utah Black Chamber of Commerce. In this role, I’ve led the Chamber through 275% membership growth and a 516% increase in contributions, positioning it as a catalyst for economic development and a trusted resource for Black-owned businesses across Utah. Read more>>

Archer Vazquez

I am an 18 year old photographer and I started my journey in Denver Colorado. Over the years I’ve had the opportunity to work with so many people in creating fun and engaging content, and I’ve been able to capture thousands of memories. Read more>>