The first portrait features Chantay Love, who turned personal tragedy into action. After losing her brother, she started EMIR Healing Center to help families affected by gun violence. Then there’s Jimmy Young, the tough boxer who faced off against Muhammad Ali before spending his life coaching kids in North Philly.

Michelle Konkoly’s journey is inspiring, too. A serious back injury didn’t keep her from winning Paralympic gold. Now, she’s a resident doctor, using her own comeback story to inspire patients facing major challenges. The fourth mural shows Joshua Santiago’s work bringing dignity to others. Through his project Empowering Cuts, he gives free haircuts to homeless people and those struggling with addiction. His simple act of kindness has touched so many lives throughout the city.

Visitor Center Corporation President and CEO Kathryn Ott Lovell said it best: “The stories of Chantay, Michelle, Jimmy, and Joshua reflect the power of resilience that we celebrate when we watch Rocky, and that defines us as Philadelphians.”

These heroes were chosen based on five things: determination, compassion for others, commitment to their neighborhood, love for the city, and stories that inspire action. This reveal kicks off RockyFest, bringing new visitors to those iconic steps from the 1976 movie. Now these inspiring portraits add new meaning to Philly’s amazing art scene.