James Anderst was born in 1994, just steps away from where he now lives. He was raised by a single mother who started her CPA/accounting business in Bonita which has grown to become an integral part of the community. She instilled in him the core values of honesty, integrity, and compassion.

As a child he was an avid reader and enjoyed reading about world history and natural science. While at Estero High, he began working at the local movie theater, as well as odd jobs on the weekends. In high school he had an interest in art and even had some of his paintings displayed at the Bonita Art League.

He graduated from Florida Gulf Coast University where he studied archaeology and geology with a special interest in the history and environment of South Florida. While at FGCU he worked as a teaching assistant, helping his fellow students with their studies and leading lectures. He is now pursuing a master’s degree at Florida Atlantic University. He met his wife at FGCU, and they were married at the Everglades Wonder Gardens.