VH$ is a trailblazing Mexican-American music producer, record collector, and entrepreneur hailing from the San Gabriel Valley. Born on December 25, 1984, VH$ was raised in Section 8 housing by a single mother, and his music career stands as a powerful testament to the resilience born from adversity.
Joanna Law is a renowned fine art photographer known for her stunning maternity, newborn, children, and family portraits. As a proud immigrant who arrived in the U.S. at just eight years old, Joanna discovered her passion for photography alongside her future husband. What began as a beloved hobby has blossomed into a thriving business, beautifully capturing the essence of family life in their chic, private studio located in historic Old Town Pasadena, California.
Diego Lojero is a dynamic individual whose journey is a testament to the power of passion, creativity, and unyielding optimism. From an early age, Diego’s life had been deeply intertwined with sports. A standout in the world of golf, he secured three league championships during his high school years, showcasing his dedication and competitive spirit. This commitment to physical activity has remained a cornerstone of his identity.
Kitty Lam is a British-born Chinese chef who seamlessly merges the comforting tradition of British pies with the bold, vibrant flavors of Cantonese cuisine. Born in London and with deep roots in Hong Kong, Kitty has crafted a unique culinary niche through her pop-up venture, Dai Pie Dong, based in Los Angeles.
Hawk & Sophia, an inspiring AAPI husband-and-wife team who have redefined the classic wing experience with their distinctive recipes and techniques. They started started the trailblazing restaurant Shlap Muan together in San Francisco, later bringing it down to Southern California.
Angie Covarrubias Aguilar is a lifelong San Gabriel Valley resident. She graduated from Baldwin Park High School, went to Georgetown University in Washington, DC, studied abroad in Salamanca Spain, and returned to Southern California, shortly after graduation.
Gary Wat is a visionary real estate agent known for his innovative approach and deep-rooted passion for community building. His journey into real estate is anything but conventional. Initially on the lookout for investors for a school-related project, Gary was encouraged to explore a career in real estate. Despite some initial hesitation, he quickly excelled, becoming one of the top-performing agents in his field. Gary’s success is a testament to the idea that the most unexpected opportunities can often lead to the most remarkable achievements.
Cynthia Duarte grew up in El Sereno and currently resides in Covina. She works for the San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity, a non-profit organization with locations in Pasadena, Monrovia, and Duarte. Cynthia’s journey with the organization began as a participant in a welfare-to-work program. Starting as a volunteer, she has advanced through various roles over the past five years, from office volunteer to her current position as Marketing Specialist.
Victor Ving is a renowned muralist and the creative force behind the Greetings Tour, a nationwide public art project that transforms communities with vibrant, large-letter postcard-style murals. Victor’s journey in art began with his roots in NYC graffiti, where he honed his aerosol techniques before shifting his focus to public art that celebrates local landmarks, history, and culture.
Ray Corona, also known as Popeye Ray, grew up navigating a challenging environment in El Monte, Baldwin Park, and Bassett, California. His early years were marked by instability, spending time in foster care and various temporary homes before eventually residing with his mother once again. Surrounded by the harsh realities of gang life, Ray found himself drawn into that world for several years.
