Interviewed and written by: Kaitlyn Youn, Events Marketing & Outreach Intern for Engage! Cleveland

Cleveland is a city of culture, resilience, and opportunity.

At Engage! Cleveland, we’re passionate about amplifying what makes our city special—from its vibrant neighborhoods to its thriving professional community. We know that when we celebrate Cleveland, we build a reputation that draws in and keeps the next generation of changemakers.

According to the 2023 State of the Young Professional Community Report (SYPCR), a survey Engage! Cleveland conducts bi-annually to get a finger on the pulse of the early to mid-career professional community in Cleveland, a whopping 91% of respondents had a positive view of Cleveland, but only 27% of those respondents said they were “cheerleaders” of Cleveland, with the remaining respondents being passive, or negative. 

That’s why, since the beginning of the year, we’ve been highlighting local influencers who actively champion Cleveland—people using their platforms, passions, and voices to reshape the narrative and showcase all that makes this city exceptional.

Each month, we shine a spotlight on an individual who inspires us, and this month’s feature is the effortlessly iconic Cleveland transplant, Marissa Lee. Looking for your next weekend plans or a new restaurant to try, don’t worry, because this sports-loving foodie has you covered!

Stay tuned as we continue honoring these individuals and sharing their stories in 2026. Continue reading to learn more about Marissa and follow her journey on social media @obviouslyrissa

EC: Hello, Marissa! We are excited to have you join us today and learn more about you and your story. Please kick us off with just an intro about you.

ML:  Well, thank you for spotlighting me. Hi everyone, my name is Hannah Hines and I am excited to be here.  I am a marketing professional by day, but am the local content creator behind the account Hannah in Ohio. 

EC: Do you currently work and/or live in Cleveland and how long have you been here for?

ML: Yes, I live in Rocky River and I’ve been here for 2 years. 

EC: Could you describe your journey of how you ended up in Cleveland? 

ML: I’m actually a Cleveland transplant! I was born in Southern California and graduated high school at Laguna Beach. I then moved to Cleveland about two years ago and have fallen in love with the people and the city. Cleveland has really become my home!

EC: What is it about Cleveland that makes you feel at home here, and what draws you to this city in comparison to other places?

ML: This is the first place I’ve felt like I have found my people, community, and my home. I’ve moved every year since I was 15 and this is the first time I haven’t felt the need to get up and move. Cleveland is a place that I truly think anyone can and would love if they gave it a chance, and I’m so grateful I gave it that chance!

EC: What’s your favorite neighborhood in Cleveland and why is it so special to you? 

ML: Lakewood Park is my favorite place and it’s what made me fall in love with the city. The entire Lakewood neighborhood just makes me feel close to downtown while still allowing me to feel connected to the entire community that makes it up.

EC: What’s something that surprised you when you first moved to Cleveland?

ML: I was surprised by the fact there is so much culture here and historic background that;s so easy to overlook. We are home to some of the most amazing discoveries, inventions, and innovations. I don’t think I ever get tired of learning the fun facts or trying new restaurants.

EC: What are some of your favorite spots in Cleveland?

ML: There’s so many places I can list off the top of my head: Lakewood Park, Edgewater Beach, Pace Cafe, Westside Market, lago! These are just a few places I can list off the top of my head that make Cleveland feel like a bigger and more homey city to me!

EC: How does Cleveland compare to other cities you’ve lived in?

ML: Although I was younger when I lived in California, I still never felt like I was a part of anything. I never felt like I had a real community there like I do here in Cleveland. Being here in Cleveland lets me to comfortably lay down at night and  know I’m happy to be here.

EC: Are you a fan of sports, if so how has Cleveland’s sparkling sports scene enhanced your experience living here? 

ML: I am a huge sports fan! I love basketball games the most, but the options to go to a Guardians game, Monsters game, etc are elite! The fact there’s something to do all year long in the sports department makes living here so much more fun and it’s great to have something to look forward to help me get through a tiring week. It also helps bring the city together whether you’re at a bar watching a game or inviting your friends to go watch a game in person!

EC: Run me down through a typical weekend in your life and are there any activities or local events that you make sure to attend? 

ML: On the weekend you’ll probably find me going on a walk and stopping by my local coffee shop or trying new restaurants. I also never miss a Happy Endings party especially in the summer time on a patio!

EC: Based on what you know now, what advice would you give to your younger self who moved to Cleveland 2 years ago?

ML: I would tell younger me that Cleveland is great and the people can be great BUT you do have to put in the work to get that experience. Like any other city, nothing will simply fall into your hands. If you seek community and connection out, you will definitely find those meant for you!

EC: In what ways do you celebrate Cleveland and what makes you want to express your love for the city? 

ML: I actually have organized 2 local markets at The Kimpton Schofield Hotel! I personally make it a huge point to support local businesses and invest in the community that supports me. Another way I show my love is through my content and highlighting my favorite places in the area! I try to go to as many events as possible, try as many new places, and support all the local businesses I can. I really love the city and want to make it known that there are tons of things to do and amazing people that want you to succeed!

EC: What are some ways our audience can engage with you or your work?

ML: Any engagement on my social media pages, such as Instagram and TikTok (@obviouslyrissa), is highly appreciated. Commenting and sharing my content is the best way to engage and support my work!

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