West Chester native Thomas Padula is the President of Padula Media, LLC, a multimedia photography and videography firm in West Chester that produces content to help businesses and individuals meet their marketing needs.

Padula, who began working when he was 15 years old at Giordano’s Bar & Grill in Kennett Square, attended West Chester University before deciding to start his own business. (He’s currently a part-time student at Delaware County Community College, where he’s pursuing a degree in Business Administration.)

Padula credits Eric Light as having the biggest impact on his career.

“I am incredibly thankful to have Eric as a friend and mentor,” he said. “Whether it is a late-night call, business dilemma, or guidance on a random subject, he has always been there for me.”

Padula’s proudest professional accomplishment has been growing his business.

“Having a team beside me that I can help grow with and mentor has been very fulfilling,” he said.

His favorite Chester County restaurant is Market Street Grill in West Chester.