Summer Solano

I attribute much of my success to a combination of faith, perseverance, and being open to opportunities when they arise. The COVID-19 pandemic created unexpected opportunities that challenged me to think differently and pursue new paths. I’m also deeply grateful for my faith in God, which has guided me through both challenges and successes, and for a close friend which was her former co worker who encouraged me to create a banner for her YouTube channel. That encouragement became a catalyst for growth and helped lay the foundation for the business I have today.

The best career advice I’ve ever received is to seek guidance from people who have already achieved the results I aspire to achieve. Learning from those with proven experience and success helps provide clarity, direction, and practical insights, while relying on advice from those who haven’t walked that path can sometimes lead to confusion or unnecessary setbacks. I’ve also learned that success rarely happens without hard work, sacrifice, and focus. Building a business often requires giving up personal time, social activities, and short-term comforts in pursuit of long-term goals. Staying committed to the vision, even when it’s difficult, is what ultimately creates meaningful and lasting success.

My advice to young women entering this industry is to stay focused on your goals, even when you face criticism, doubt, or people who don't understand your vision. Believe in yourself and remain committed to your path, because persistence and confidence are often what separate those who succeed from those who give up too soon. I also encourage women to surround themselves with creative, motivated professionals who inspire growth and provide support. The younger you start, the more opportunities you'll create for yourself in the future. Don't be afraid to ask for help, seek mentorship, or learn from others who have experience in your field. One of the biggest lessons I've learned is that trying to do everything alone can lead to burnout. Success often comes from collaboration, building the right team, and being open to new ideas and perspectives.

One of the biggest challenges I’m facing right now is transitioning from the education field into a new career path while identifying opportunities that better align with my long-term goals and creative passions. Career transitions require adaptability, continuous learning, and a willingness to step outside of your comfort zone, but they also create exciting opportunities for growth and reinvention.

Within the creative industry, another significant challenge is the growing perception that artificial intelligence can fully replace graphic designers. While AI has become a valuable tool that can improve efficiency and support the creative process, I believe human creativity, strategic thinking, and design expertise remain irreplaceable. Effective design is about understanding people, communicating ideas, and creating meaningful connections—areas where human insight and experience continue to play a critical role.

The values that are most important to me, both professionally and personally, are integrity, professionalism, strong moral principles, and a commitment to serving others. In my work, I believe that providing exceptional customer service, being dependable, and treating people with respect are essential to building trust and creating lasting relationships.

In my personal life, I strive to live by the same values. Honesty, kindness, accountability, and staying true to my beliefs guide my decisions and interactions with others. I believe that success is not only measured by achievements but also by the way we treat people and the positive impact we have on those around us.