It’s possible to make great strides in increasing diversity, equity and inclusion in surgery without the benefit of a national platform, whether it’s returning to the OR after a tragic accident, deciding to take on inequities in patient care or paving the way forward for the next generation of providers from underrepresented communities. These five stories of grassroots success show what’s possible when motivated individuals address healthcare disparities and increase access to surgical care by taking the initiative, making their voices heard and leading by example.