Michele Boardman
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Many of us struggle with insecurities, and we often put on a "fresh face" to show to the world. It is not always easy to get out of bed in the morning and deal with other humans. On one level, life requires you to accept the hand you are dealt, but at the same time, if you allow challenges to inhibit you from accomplishing your goals, then you aren’t really living. I have Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy, officially diagnosed at age 16. I was unable to walk by age 13, and have used a power wheelchair for mobility, ever since. While acknowledging my limitations, and despite these challenges, I graduated high school, went to college, and earned a masters degree in Counseling Psychology.
The power of hope, found from within after negotiating the emotional, physical, and social obstacles in my adolescence, is what drew me to the counseling field. At my current position as a Community Work Incentive Coordinator, I assist individuals with disabilities to pursue work at their full potential and become their version of independent, instead of staying static due to fear of the unknown. My passion lies in helping people overcome obstacles, live outside of fear, and embrace life. Being independent has always been a priority, and my work allows me to accomplish this. As I continue to set goals for myself, I do not allow others to make me feel less-than, just because I have a disability. To be honest, I don't think of myself as an inspiration, I am simply making the most out of what I was given. I am not content with just existing. I am determined to live. |
Ken Pao
Born in Houston, Texas, Ken Pao's passion for photography had always been inherent since his parents enrolled him in his first darkroom class when he was in middle school. It wasn't until one of his first overseas trip to Tibet with his family when he realized that photography wasn't just a way to document his journeys, but also a way to express his unique point of view. Portraits of locals in their native habitats happened to be one of his favorite things to photograph, which eventually led to melding the beauty of people with the destinations themselves.
As a result, portraiture, fashion and beauty photography were a natural progression. Fittingly, Ken’s distinct photographic style incorporates aspects of both architecture and fashion. With his signature use of beautiful light and an eye for composition and detail, the resulting images always embody a strong visual style with a clean minimalist feel.
Also setting Ken apart in his industry is his professionalism and enthusiasm that reverberates through to the final images. Commercial and individual clients alike adore his agreeable demeanor that makes him a joy to work and collaborate with. Visit Ken at http://www.kenpao.com/
Born in Houston, Texas, Ken Pao's passion for photography had always been inherent since his parents enrolled him in his first darkroom class when he was in middle school. It wasn't until one of his first overseas trip to Tibet with his family when he realized that photography wasn't just a way to document his journeys, but also a way to express his unique point of view. Portraits of locals in their native habitats happened to be one of his favorite things to photograph, which eventually led to melding the beauty of people with the destinations themselves.
As a result, portraiture, fashion and beauty photography were a natural progression. Fittingly, Ken’s distinct photographic style incorporates aspects of both architecture and fashion. With his signature use of beautiful light and an eye for composition and detail, the resulting images always embody a strong visual style with a clean minimalist feel.
Also setting Ken apart in his industry is his professionalism and enthusiasm that reverberates through to the final images. Commercial and individual clients alike adore his agreeable demeanor that makes him a joy to work and collaborate with. Visit Ken at http://www.kenpao.com/