Community

November Alumni Spotlight: Five Under30Experiences Alumni Who Will Inspire You

By
Jennifer DeSimone
on
January 16, 2024

Stories define us as people and connect us as a tribe.

Every day I am inspired by the stories shared by the Under30Experiences Alumni and find myself aspiring to live a life full of grace, adventure, and impact that are showcased by the stories of these awesome people.

Their stories remind us to continue to go after our dreams and live a bold life.

Here are five alumni whose stories will inspire you to live an empowered life...

Maria Maslin

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Photo credit: Kristian Arcos

U30X Trips: Explore Costa Rica and Iceland 

Current location: Philadelphia, PA

Her story: I've been singing and writing music for as long as I can remember. Currently I'm trying my hardest to get signed to a record deal so I can share my music with larger audiences around the world. I love the powerful effect music has on people and the amazing things it can do to help someone. It would be a dream come true to have the opportunity to possibly help people with my own music, share my personal experiences, and make a real difference.

Get connected: @mariamaslinmusic

Chris Hughes

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Photo credit: Sarah Foerster

U30X Trip: Machu Picchu

Current location: Bali, Indonesia

His story: Four years ago I quit my job as a bartender and a valet attendant, moved to Panama and forced myself to make my internet business work.

Since then I’ve traveled and lived all over the world while building up various businesses. My specialty is building up large communities and using websites/affiliate products to create income from these and then hiring teams to run them.

I design my days around doing fun things and making memories, while working in between these experiences.

Get connected: @WhosChrisHughes

Meeta Manglani

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Meeta volunteering at the Pratham NY gala at the Waldorf Astoria this past September

U30X Trips: Nicaragua, Iceland, and Brazil

Current location: New York, NY

Her story: I am the co-chair of the Pratham New York's Young Professional Board which sets up educational programs for underprivileged children in India. As an organization whose mission is to serve children and protect their rights, the Young Professionals Board partnered up with "Sold." Sold is a movie about a young girl and her fight to freedom after unknowingly being forced into child sex trafficking. Sold supports a campaign called Taught Not Trafficked, which helps free young children from sex trafficking and provides them with safe houses, medical attention and educational programs to help these children rebuild their lives.

Get connected: @meetam25

For more information on this special project or to get involved please visit: 
www.prathamusa.org, https://www.soldthemovie.com, http://www.taughtnottrafficked.com/sold.html 

Michelle Ortega

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Photo credit: Amanda Gallant

U30X Trips: Nicaragua and Lake Tahoe Alumni Trip

Current location: Los Angeles, CA

Her story: An east coast native, I am a Los Angeles-based storyteller who consults for small businesses. The projects I relentlessly pursue celebrate the human spirit and a deep desire to uncover what it means to lead a life well-lived. I am currently the Community Lead and Thought Partner at Maitri Yoga Store, a lifestyle boutique in Culver City, CA. Prior to this, I was an Advertising Executive in New York City.

Get connected: @Michwoman

Lindsey Dukes

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Lindsey in Iceland just two short weeks ago

U30X Trips: Bali & Iceland (and am SUPER PUMPED for Peru in May!)

Current Location: Austin, TX

Her story: I'm an adventurous traveler with a passion for people, music, photography, and writing. I am super excited to have my Iceland article featured in the Under30Experiences blog this month, and am even more excited to be a regular contributor! More articles from yours truly coming soon…

Get connected: @dukeslindsey

What are you up to?

Are you an alum working on an impactful project? 

Drop us a line to be featured in our December roundup.

Jennifer DeSimone
Currently based in Austin, Jennifer is the Chief of Community for U30X. She has a passion for creating connections, community, and opportunities for more empathy. In her spare time you can find her on her yoga mat, whipping up something yummy in the kitchen, or reading a good book.

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