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 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 lifelong Clevelander Matthew Kostura, a freelance photographer capturing Cleveland through his own creative lens. Whether he’s documenting the energy of a local event, shooting a new restaurant, or spending time in Lakewood’s vintage shops and coffee spots, Matthew brings a perspective that feels both personal and distinctly tied to the city. His work highlights the people, spaces, and moments that give Cleveland its character, from its art and architecture to its thriving small business scene. Deeply connected to the city’s creative and queer communities, Matthew uses his photography to showcase Cleveland as he experiences it: expressive, evolving, and community-driven. Through his work with local businesses, events, and fellow creatives, he’s not only documenting the city, but actively contributing to the culture that makes it feel alive.

Stay tuned as we continue honoring these individuals and sharing their stories in 2026. Continue reading to learn more about Matthew!

EC: Matthew, you’ve spent your whole life in Cleveland. When did it start to feel like your city?

MK: It honestly always felt like home. Being here my whole life, I’ve built and fostered a really strong community of close friends who mean a lot to me. That sense of connection is what’s always grounded me here.

EC: What’s your favorite neighborhood in Cleveland?

MK: Lakewood, without a doubt. I love being close to the lake, and the queer and art communities there are a huge part of my life. There’s also an amazing food and coffee shop scene, plus some of the best vintage shopping around. It just feels like a place where I can fully be myself.

EC: Cleveland has such a strong cultural identity—what resonates with you most?

MK: Definitely the art and architecture. We’re incredibly lucky to have institutions like the Cleveland Museum of Art so accessible—I go as often as I can. Architecture has always inspired me too, and places like Tower City Center and The Arcade showcase some really significant and beautiful American design.

EC: Where are some of your favorite spots to spend time?

MK: I love places like Harlow’s Pizza and The Judith—both have such great vibes, plus amazing food and drinks. For shopping, I’m always checking out Avalon Exchange and Highland Throwbacks, along with local vintage and art markets. I try to shop second-hand or support small businesses as much as possible.

EC: Have you ever lived anywhere else, or has Cleveland always been home?

MK: Cleveland’s always been home for me—I haven’t lived in any other cities.

EC: What role do sports play in your experience of the city?

MK: I’ve been a fan of the Cleveland Cavaliers for as long as I can remember. I watch every game and try to make it to Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse whenever I can. The energy at games is unreal, and I love how the whole city comes alive around our teams.

EC: What does a typical weekend look like for you?

MK: Weekends are usually spent with friends—vintage shopping, hitting markets, trying new spots in the food scene, or going out at places like Twist Social Club. I also love supporting our local drag scene, especially when friends are performing. There’s always something happening.

EC: How would you describe Cleveland to someone who’s never been?

MK: I’d say it’s a classic Midwestern city where you really get out of it what you put in. It’s not for everyone—and you definitely have to be ready for winter—but there’s a lot here if you’re open to it.

EC: How do you stay engaged with the city?

MK: I’m always out at Pride, art festivals, and local markets. My friends and I make a point to explore small businesses, restaurants, and coffee shops as much as possible. That’s a big part of how we connect with the city.

EC: If you could shape Cleveland’s future, what would you want to see?

MK: More affordable housing, continued investment in downtown and surrounding infrastructure, and better access to the waterfront. And honestly—filling potholes wouldn’t hurt either.

EC: How are you contributing to Cleveland’s creative scene?

MK: This year, I really focused on growing my work as a freelance photographer and collaborating with local businesses and creatives. I’ve done several shoots I’m really proud of. I’ve worked with Market Garden Brewery on a few projects, including a campaign for their Cleveland Light Lager for 216 Day and coverage of their Shandy Land event. I also shot for Cleveland Vibes at their “Founders and Friends” event, which brought together some amazing people in the city. One of my favorite recent projects was shooting the soft opening for Pastimes Coffee—the team there is incredible, and the menu is just as good. I’m excited to keep building those relationships and do more portrait work as well.

EC: Where can people connect with you and your work?

MK: You can follow me on Instagram and check out my portfolio on Behance. If any local businesses or creatives want to collaborate, feel free to DM me or reach out via email at matthew.kostura@gmail.com —I’m always open to working with new clients.