Creativepreneurs: Baiyina Hughley
The Creativepreneurs interview series explores the entrepreneurial journeys of black creatives.
What is your creative work and what inspired you to start?
I’m a designer focusing on all things Interior Design. My latest ventures include teaching an online decorating class, selling vintage rugs and shopping for home makeover shows. Ever since design school, I knew I wanted to own my own business. I have many journals filled with notes detailing business ideas and entrepreneurship.
How do you access your creativity and prepare to do your work?
The excitement and challenge of new projects creates an electrical buzz which is where my creative ideas come from. It’s intuitive for me - I can usually walk into a space and immediately start visualizing ideas. To execute a project, I use my logical side and follow a step by step process I’ve developed from experience. I can’t work if my space is messy or disorganized, so I’ll clean up or rearrange if I feel unmotivated or stuck. I also work best in the evening and typically need to have Netflix or talk radio on to get into it.
What do you hope to inspire or accomplish?
I hope to accomplish creating a lifestyle for myself that feels fun, free, creative and thriving, all the while helping people create better spaces and give them access to really neat quality finds that they cherish for years.
What if any surprises or challenges have you encountered?
My biggest challenge is having staying power to stick with one idea/ focus. I prefer lots of short term projects and gigs within design. I’ve never been able to stick with just one thing. And I’ve struggled with accepting if that’s okay.
How do you practice self-care and recharge?
When I’m burned out the thing that brings me the most joy is hopping in the car with my best friend for a day trip and the city behind me - and even better if it’s a weekday. On a smaller scale, massages and vegging out on the sofa with Project Runway helps too.
What advice do have for women considering entrepreneurship?
Test your ideas by trying to see if you can sell before you create a whole website, register your business and order the business cards. Start before you do any of this. Also, follow what feels good and uses your natural talents.
What are your other dreams and goals?
My dreams include owning a home, opening a furniture/ home decor store and starting a family.
What are you most proud of with your business?
I’m most proud of the fact that I've genuinely been able to pursue my passions. I’m not where I want to be fully, but I’m working on it.
Where can we learn more about you?
My website baiyina.com or my youtube channel www.youtube.com/quirkyliving.
Anything you would like to add?
The biggest thing I’ve learned is that you just have to be who you are. One of my favorite authors Jean Haner wrote a book called “Your Hidden Symmetry”. And it’s all about understanding your true nature and then creating your life around that, rather than trying to change yourself to fit a life around you.
Baiyina is also featured in Black Minimalists on the Web. Learn about other creativepreneurs.
Photos courtesy of Baiyina Hugley.
Carefree Black Girl as Minimalist
I identify strongly with the Carefree Black Girl lifestyle. The concept was created to bring light to the diverse and expressive nature of black women and counter negative and stereotypical portrayals of black women in the media.
What is a carefree black girl?
A Carefree Black Girl (CBG) is someone who seizes the freedom to be and create herself. CBGs are free, happy, and doing their own thing.
Search the hashtag #carefreeblackgirl and you will find a plethora of melanated goddesses flaunting their beauty, quirks, afros, midriffs, smiles, and slammin’ style.
It’s important to clarify though, how one looks does not define the CBG, it is the spirit and intention behind the exteriors. There is a space for every kind of black woman and girl in the CBG movement.
The carefree black girl spirit spoke to something within me.
When I first started learning about the CBG via blogs and other social media, I was immediately drawn to the concept and felt it spoke to something I was experiencing: evolution and freedom.
These changes in my life were pronounced by the adoption of a minimalist lifestyle. Minimalism, simply put, is about living with less, whatever that means for you.
For me, it meant decluttering physical stuff, giving up a “normal” life, releasing doubts and fears, not “doing the most” but being my best, and pursuing my passions.
We are taught having it all means we’ve acquired certain things: a degree, a respectable career, certain material possessions, a spouse, and children, but what of those that reject this definition of “all”.
It’s not to say minimalists don’t aspire to have some or all of these things, but we’ve discovered that having it “all” as defined by society can be a great burden emotionally, physically, spiritually, and financially. We’ve learned having less and living more simply allows us to do and be more and define our own versions of “all”.
Carefree black girl as minimalist.
When I stopped trying to be who I thought I should be, I began to understand true happiness. Being carefree is minimalist and being minimalist invokes my inner CBG.
Carefree minimalism is about taking risks, exploring, non-attachment to material things and negativity, leading from within versus following from without. It’s about defining myself for myself and charting the trajectory of my own life.
Ultimately, it’s about understanding that I am enough as I am and that is true liberation.
Principles of a Minimalist Life
Minimalism as a lifestyle is loosely defined as living with less. There are no other rules and each person gets to decide what “less” means to them.
Depending on what type of person you are, this can be liberating or frustrating when trying to figure out if you’re “minimalist” enough (hint: you are).
Still, I wanted to put together some basic principles of a minimalist life to help guide you on your journey.
You are enough.
This is a fundamental truth of every person’s spiritual journey and I do see minimalism as a spiritual journey ultimately. You are made whole. Nothing external to you can define you or determine your worthiness. You have everything you need within you to create and live the life you want.
Exist on your own terms.
Related to the first principle, you get to define what your life will be. You don’t have to live as society, your family, or anyone else believes. You are free to be who you are, pursue your passions, evolve, and change your mind at any moment.
Let go of what does not serve you.
We humans have a bad habit of holding onto things we don’t need. Not just physical things, but emotional baggage, and unhealthy habits. We keep these things because they provide some comfort and familiarity, but they are false and based on fear of the unknown. If you want to evolve and be your best self, you have to let go.
Make space for what matters.
There’s a reason why you may not be reaching the goals that will change your life. There is no space for growth in your life. When you hold on to what does not serve you, you block your blessings and prevent the things you need from coming into your life.
Doing more is not equal to being productive.
Your time is a precious commodity. Living by your to-do list is not the most efficient use of your time. Prioritize the activities, projects, and people that deserve your time. Use your time for doing the things that contribute to your overall well-being.
Value things that money cannot buy.
When you die, you will not be thinking about (insert highly coveted item). You will be thinking about the memories that form the span of your life, your family, and friends. Why spend a large portion of your life accumulating stuff that won’t matter in the end? Spend you life making memories you never want to forget.
Use your material and financial resources efficiently.
Minimalism is not about not buying or owning things. As a human living in the modern world, it is nearly impossible not to acquire stuff and create some waste. The difference is you understand the impact of using your resources responsibly. Whether you aspire to be debt-free, eat healthy, reduce waste, build your own tiny home, you know planning and commitment is required.
Be grateful for what you have.
Gratitude is an important part of this journey. Being thankful for what you already have helps you keep your life in perspective and appreciate what you have accomplished so far. It also tamps down the incessant call to want more.
These principles are not exhaustive, but arguably the most important. They are philosophical and will force you to contemplate your minimalist journey rather than focus on the number of things you own or what to declutter next.
What are your basic principles of a minimalist life? Would you add anything?
Black Minimalists: Deedra Boodram
I began my minimalist journey October of 2014. At that time I was frustrated with all the stuff in my home. It seemed like no matter how much I cleaned and organized my family's belongings, within a few days my house would end up in it's previous untidy, cluttered state. It made me feel so bogged down and unhappy.
The Black Minimalists series features people of color on their simple living journeys.
When and why did you start your minimalist journey?
I began my minimalist journey October of 2014. At that time, I was frustrated with all the stuff in my home. It seemed like no matter how much I cleaned and organized my family's belongings, within a few days my house would end up in it's previous untidy, cluttered state. It made me feel so bogged down and unhappy.
Additionally, I had a lot of obligations taking up my time. This included appointments, rehearsals, practices, play dates, school, work, home management, the list goes on. It was just too much! Then one faithful day I ran across an article about minimalism and simple living and it spoke to me. I decided I would give minimalism a try in every area of my life and I have never looked back! It changed my life!
What lessons have you learned since going minimalist?
Gosh! I have learned so much! First and foremost I learned that no two minimalist journeys will be the same. What is minimalistic for me may not seem minimalistic for someone else. I had to define minimalism for myself to fit my life.
Secondly I discovered that materialism often times stems from trying to keep up with the Joneses and trying to impress people that really do not matter. I had to learn to be more intentional with my purchases.
I have also learned that minimalism is a way of life. Anything other than a lifestyle change is just decluttering. The less stuff that I own the less time I have to maintain it. For example cleaning, organizing, etc. I have definitely learned the art of contentment while on this journey.
What are you goals in living simply?
My goal is to live a stress free life, void of clutter and excess so that I am able to spend time with the people that I love, doing the things that I most enjoy doing! I strive to live as simply as possible.
Has minimalism impacted other areas of your life?
Absolutely! My Debt Free journey was birthed from my Minimalist journey. In my opinion it is actually more economical to be a minimalist. I am more intentional with my purchases and I do not spend money on unnecessary stuff.
I am able to save money. That money can be used to pay off debt, build wealth, travel or to bless others. Not only do I strive to have minimal material possessions, but minimal financial and social obligations as well. All of this yields minimal stress.
What if any surprises or challenges have you encountered?
My challenge has been getting rid of books. There are electronic versions of most books but there is nothing like holding a book in your hand and flipping through pages. I have donated most of my books but I still have a few books that I have not been able to part with.
What mindset changes have you experienced?
I no longer try to keep up with the Joneses. I now own my possessions. I do not let my possessions own me. Everything that I have and that I do has to serve a purpose or must bring me joy. I make more time for the more important things in life. I am now more focused on intentionally making memories and experiencing life on a grander level.
What advice do you have for someone interested in simplifying her life?
Strive for joy, not perfection. Ask yourself, "In my world, what does it mean to be a minimalist and to live a simple life?" This may require some introspection. Get inspiration from books and blogs centered around minimalism and simple living.
You can also follow the journey of YouTubers on a similar journey. This should give you a good starting point and some good tips for beginning your own journey. Please keep in mind that no two journeys will be the same.
Where can we learn more about you?
You can find me on:
YouTube: http://youtube.com/deedraboodram
Periscope: drboodram
Twitter: http://twitter.com/deedraboodram
Instagram: http://instagram.com/drboodram
Anything you would like to add?
Minimalism is a lifestyle change which affects every area of your life not only your material possessions but your finances, personal, and family life as well.
Learn about other Black Minimalists.
Photos courtesy of Deedra Boodram.
Creativepreneurs: Tasha McZorn
The Creativepreneurs interview series explores the entrepreneurial journeys of creatives of color.
I first met Tasha when we were both studying at the Art Institute of Philadelphia and she was my Resident Assistant. Later, we both went on to do AmeriCorps during the same time and now we're both on our entrepreneurial journeys. I'm proud to share her story.
What is your creative work or hustle and what inspired you to start?
Well my new venture is called BossLady Entertainment where I currently operate as a Talent Manager. I manage the work, career, and sometimes the life of my solo R&B/Soul artist, Soultareek.
Well my inspiration plays out twofold. Since high school and in church I was curious about the music industry. I love music and always was surrounded by music. The beginning of my life mostly consisted of gospel due to being Pentecostal, but my friends at school started to expose me to Hot 97. My mom told me stories of groups and bands running in my family and then a businessman I worked for put me on CD 101.9. I also observed my cousin Aaron take his music career on the road and people like House Divas, Barbara Tucker, and Dawn Tallman sing as part of the Praise & Worship team at my church.
That let me know you can love God and still love all types of music while moving in the business. I tabled that thought of being in the business at age 17. The second part... 17 years later (crazy right!), my now artist Soultareek resurrected this idea. He approached me about managing his career. I was totally against it due to knowing nothing about how the business works and I wasn't confident I could do it. I'm in Education and manage middle school students and teachers, not music careers. We realized I could take those same skills I use every day in education and transfer them over to his career. I got my hands on some resources and read up on some dos and don'ts, connected with some veterans from the industry, and can say I'm very proud of myself. That was a long inspiration...lol
How do you access your creativity and prepare to do your work?
It's a combination of picking the brains of veterans and collaborating with my artist. We function more like a team then he wants me to go do this and that. We meet the first week of the month and set goals for him as an artist, myself as a manager, and collaborative goals for ourselves. Afterwards, we go back to the board and see what we accomplished, what we need to roll over to the next month, and what are our next moves.
I also have to say my spirituality. I ask God what is the next move, and thank him in advance for the people he lines up for me to connect with. I ask daily for guidance for me so I won't miss opportunities I normally wouldn't accept.
After that I'm unleashed! Lol! Things and people start to line up based off those goals that are set in the beginning. It's done effortlessly! I don’t have to force, push or step on anyone’s toes to prepare for what I do. Which is definitely the perception and truth about this business.
I read up and watch how well known talent managers, who are responsible for a lot of celebrities’ careers, move or moved. How are you going to know what to do if you don't seek the wisdom from those who’ve already done it? I connect with local talent managers as well.
What do you hope to inspire or accomplish?
A few things… I hope to inspire others to go for your dreams. I hope to inspire others to go with the flow. Sometimes you have to turn the control button off and stop trying to force things to go this way when you know good and well God got this sharp left turn coming. Just go for it!
I hope to inspire others to go own your own. Whatever it is, don't let your plan be to retire and live off your pension. You have your 9-5, great! Is that something you can leave for your grandchildren? your great grand? Remember to build a legacy for your family!
What I hope to accomplish with BossLady Entertainment:
- I hope, no will, accomplish being the "go to" establishment to package independent artists and present them for successful distribution and record deals. I don't expect to have a bunch of artists on my roster, but I do expect to have a successful track record of building artists up and getting them out there into the world.
- I'm looking to extend my service at BossLady Entertainment managing Fashion Models careers (I graduated with a B.S. in Fashion Marketing) as well as event planning for upcoming and known artists.
- Just because I feel how this flow is going and I'm not going to question it or ask how and why...it will all come together, have my very own establishment where I can offer the record deals and distribution.
At this point anything is possible and I'm NOT going to second guess myself or say NO to anything that God put in place for me to get there!
What if any surprises or challenges have you encountered?
Yesssss!!!
Challenges:
Finding the balance managing your dreams and life while driving and pushing to make someone else’s dream come true. Unexpectedly your life becomes intertwined with the people you manage. I noticed that with my work as BossLady and in my 9-5 job as a Director. Just finding that balance, but also being realistic that hey, it's going to be like this sometimes but don't have to be all the time.
Surprises: How many people believe men and women can't work together unless there are hidden agendas. I know we’ve got Love and Hip Hop giving everybody some insight into the industry, but my name is Latasha "BossLady" McZorn...ummmm I don't WANT or NEED to roll like that to make ish happen. And that is that!
Support and Supporters! Very shocked to see how artists will get love and actually help from the people outside of their camp or city. Strangers will support you sometimes better than your own family. So to see that happen and hear a lot of other artists mimic the same message is helping me steer a different way in managing my artist.
Lessons: (I'm adding this)
Somebody can big you up all they want, but when you ain't buying the CDs, downloading the iTunes, attending the shows, helping you post or share or coming out to help or even ASK how can I help.... You note it and move accordingly.
How do you practice self-care and recharge?
I plan for it and follow the shifts in the season. I fall back and make sure I take care of me, my family, and my needs. You can end up as an entrepreneur doing everything yourself or pushing so hard for somebody else vision you forget about your own personal needs. So I plan it and just do it! What good are you for the people you are planning to serve or product you are planning to produce if you're off! Nobody else will take care of you better than you! So do it!
What advice do have for women considering entrepreneurship?
- You get the idea and write it down. Now I remember writing my ideas down about the music when I was 17. Boom in my journal, done. So that is the first step.
- When something opens up that connects to your vision and dream, entertain it.
- Start researching it up! Get some resources. Look up career stories of individuals who successfully made it in the field you are interested in pursuing.
- Be open to a mentor. I have someone with 10+ years in the industry I can call on to ping ideas off, reflect on my actions, and see if I'm on the right path. Some of you will seek and find your mentors. Other will have people whose been watching your moves and the mentors will just come into your life. The mentor shows up when the student is ready. So be open to one!
- Just go! Get started, get the LLC, go ahead and build the site, start the instagram page, get the business cards. Just go ahead and do it. The worst you can do is fail! Guess what? Remember that last thing that failed or didn't go through? How you doing? It’s over right? Had some stuff you had to put back together and changes had to be made..but it’s over right? Okay, so just go! Failure is temporary, so just start. People are in graves with dreams they never fulfilled or was too scared to start. Think of this... Whose dreams, jobs or legacy are you holding up because you won't fulfill yours? People are waiting on you!
Girl just go and get started!
What are your other dreams and goals?
I would love to have my own school. Start from preschool to whatever grade I can fulfill during my life. My children, grand-children or great grands might fulfill my legacy but I can at least start it.
Another is to travel the world! I want to take my artist all over the world because sometimes your own backyard won't recognize your skills and talents until others do. So one of my goals is to take BossLady Entertainment international!
Of course one of my other goals and dreams is to be married and have my own family. Sometimes women entrepreneurs be faking the funk like they don't want no man. Remember a BossLady needs a BossMan so one of my dreams is to marry my King and build our own legacy. ;)
Another dream of mine is to either have my own successful segment on a radio or television show.
What are you most proud of with your business?
I am so proud of everything! BossLady Entertainment’s one year anniversary is coming up in two months. Not having any industry background, my artist Soultareek has completed his first EP. He just released his first album (which is fire!!!), had his album release party, participated in DJ Absolut’s Rock the Mic showcase in NYC, his first music video about to drop on VeVo in a few days, building his collabo portfolio with other artists, and I have a new opportunity to become a talent manager for an independent record label. All from just saying YES and just going for it!
I am still in awe and thank God every day. As long as I follow and listen to God I know he got my back and I will keep going until he tells me... done!
Where can we learn more about you?
Request Me
You can hear me online w/my co host Frisco Kid on Saturdays, 9am-12pm on Kingdom Wave Radio.
Also join us on FB:The Frisco Kid's Kingdom Wave Radio Show.
Anything you would like to add?
Yes! You know I have to promote! :)
Follow my artist, listen, and share his music.
His album Consciously Thinking is available on iTunes, TIDAL and Google Play. Download, Share, Comment!
Also, I’m looking for new Female and Male artists ages 15 & up in R&B, HipHop, Gospel and Pop. Hit me up at bosslady.management14@gmail.com
Thank you so much for reading and I hope I inspired at least one person to get up and go or to keep going!
-BossLady