No matter where we go or what we do, a piece of where we’re from will always live inside us. That piece of us is evident through three numbers — our area code. It tells much about us from the way we speak or our overall drive and ambition. It’s the code that defines us.

That’s why AT&T is on a mission to rally people all over the world to rep their area code in appreciation of how it has made them who they are today.

HOMETOWN HEROES:

In the videos below, check out how hometown heroes Kwasi Kessie, from the (212), Niké from the (323), Dreezy from the (773) and Ryan Wilson from the (404) speak on how they take the lessons learned from their respective hometowns and apply them to the world.

Recording artist and actress, Dreezy, shares how growing up in Chicago has influenced her to stay focused and hungry in her career. Wilson, an entrepreneur, dishes on how growing up in Atlanta, he was able to witness Black people succeed in almost any profession. Kessie, a wardrobe stylist, speaks about growing up in Harlem and the motivation he has to hustle and seek out opportunities. Niké is a fashion blogger from Los Angeles and she credits her hometown as a place where people can embrace individuality and be whoever they want to be.

Although our hometown made us who we are, it’s important to remember that no matter where home is, there’s a city out there that has transformed and impacted our lives as well.

THIS CITY MADE ME:

Karen Civil, Asiyami Gold and Kahlana Barfield Brown explain how moving to three big cities have shaped their professional careers and success.

As an entrepreneur and media maven, Civil talks about how the (323) helped her create a successful business. Digital content creator, Asiyami Gold speaks on how the (404) exposed her to a culture that helped her become more innovative and industrious. Fashion and beauty expert, Kahlana Barfield-Brown explains how the (917) molded her into becoming fearless, having tough skin and not be afraid to put herself in situations that will help her grow.

Civil mentions that Los Angeles influenced her step out of her comfort zone, which ultimately helped her personal brand to flourish too. Gold was able to grow in her love and embrace the city of Atlanta through the southern and other diverse food options offered by the surrounding cities. Barfield-Brown talks about how living in Brooklyn is a source of inspiration since she was able to surround herself with other talented people in the fashion industry.

Most importantly, all of these creatives teach us how it’s important to never forget to go hard in reppin’ your city, no matter who you are or wherever you go.

Want to join the movement and put on for your city? Create your own rep your code meme to share across social media with the generator here: https://www.codesofculture.com.

This editorial is brought to you in partnership with AT&T.

Kahlana-Barfield

Get relevant content delivered to you once a week