In a city that prides itself on being a cultural capital of the South, breaking into the creative industry can still feel like an uphill climb. For many emerging artists in Atlanta, talent alone isn’t always enough. Access, opportunity, and community often make the difference, and that’s where 13 Roses comes in.  

The Atlanta-based creative collective is built on a simple yet intentional philosophy: collaboration over competition. Through curated events and hand-on-opportunities, 13 Roses is carving out space for young creatives across fashion, music, film, and visual art to not only showcase their work, but to connect with other artists in meaningful ways.  

“13 Roses started from recognizing a lack of accessible opportunities within Atlanta’s creative scene,” co-founder Hiba Heikal said. “While the industry here is thriving, it can be difficult for emerging creatives to break in, and the environment isn’t always supportive. We wanted to create a space that not only opens doors, but also fosters a positive, collaborative community where young creatives can gain both opportunities and real insight.”  

Building a creative community  

That vision materialized through a growing lineup of events— film festivals, fashion shows, artist showcases, and clothing markets—that draw in both creators and audiences. But according to Heikal, the real success of these events isn’t measured by attendance numbers.  

“One of the most tangible moments is always after our events,” she said. “Seeing people stay, connect, and build relationships in real time is incredibly rewarding. Watching those conversations turn into collaborations and genuine inspiration really reflects the impact 13 Roses is making—that sense of community is exactly why we do what we do.” 

For co-founder Justice Brown, 13 Roses is about more than just visibility—it’s about tangible impact. Brown also owns Perspective Studios where he focuses on helping creatives turn their ideas into real opportunitiesthrough photography and styling.  

“13 Roses is a creative collective, but we are based in giving our members real opportunities in the real world,” Brown said. “Those opportunities may be ways to get into your industry or, if you’re already experienced, paid or free gigs to continue to grow your skill set. It also offers you a whole network of like-minded individuals, as well as events—fashion shows, film festivals, artist showcases—things that creatives love, but also a space to network with people that think the way that you think.”   

Prioritizing real connection 

In an era dominated by social media metrics, Brown said 13 Roses intentionally moves in the opposite direction.  

“In a world of saturation, we try to make things feel as real as possible,” he said. “There’s a lot of likes, there’s a lot of followers—and we try our best to divert away from that and really build something that’s based on connecting.” 

Among the collective’s programming, their film festivals have become a signature event. Unlike traditional screenings, these events are designed to spark emotional connection between creators.  

“We allow members to show their films on screen, and a lot of the films tend to be thought-provoking,” Brown said. “It forces everyone to get to this place where they’re feeling something genuine in a crowd of people who are also feeling that. That’s the feeling we’re chasing.” 

That emphasis on real-world connection comes at a time when competition for creative careers continues to grow. According to The National Endowment for the Arts, the arts, entertainment, and recreation sector is projected to grow 5.7% between 2022 and 2032, highlighting the need for accessible career pathways for emerging talent. 

At the core of 13 Roses’ work is the belief that creativity is universal, and more people should embrace it.  

“I believe that we were put on this earth to create,” Brown said. “Everyone has ideas. To be a creative is to lean into bringing those ideas to life. I feel like we just help with bringing that idea out.”  

That philosophy also shapes what Brown says sets 13 Roses apart: a commitment to real relationships over digital reach.  

“I would rather have one genuine conversation that impacts someone to take action in real life than a thousand likes on a post,” he said. “Every single person that follows us—we’ve shaken their hand. We’ve had a genuine interaction with that person. That’s why it’s been able to grow the way it has.”  

Building structure within creativity  

Still, building a community centered on free-thinking creatives comes with its own challenges. Establishing structure without limiting expression has been a delicate balance.  

“Figuring out a foundation and structure when working with creatives is one of the hardest things,” Brown said. “To be creative means you’re bringing something to life that doesn’t already exist—you have to think differently. So building something that can contain that and help people be productive in their pursuit—that’s been the hardest part, but also the most beautiful.” 

As Atlanta’s creative scene continues to grow, 13 Roses is positioning itself as a bridge to connect artists to opportunities, and to each other. In an industry often driven by competition and clout, the collective is proving that there is a path to creative success rooted in shared growth and the belief that creativity thrives best in community.  

To stay updated on 13 Roses’ upcoming events and to join their growing network of collaborators, follow them on Instagram.