Gwendolyn "Makeda" Smith is celebrating 20 years of excellence with her business Jazzmyne PR. Her career in Public Relations has thrived for over 20 years and continues to deliver nothing but the best. It is shown with her extensive "Big Name" list of clientele. Makeda is an inspiration and role model for women of color across the globe. Makeda tells Treazuremag.com about how it all started, how she stays grounded, and what it is to be an excellent businesswoman!
How and When did you get into public relations?
I went to school for public relations, initially undergrad at Boston University , and then graduate school at USC. In Boston, while in school, instead of joining a sorority – I became a community activist, implementing my natural pr skills – I wrote for the local black press, implemented publicity campaigns for street musicians, and did organizing for grass roots causes.
What was your occupation before starting Jazzmyne PR?
Before Jazzmyne, I worked for industry veteran Ramon Hervey and before him I worked for publicist Debra Baum and veteran publicist Michael Levine. These experiences all served to provide me the platform to start my own business.
Who and/or what was your motivation behind starting Jazzmyne PR?
Well from the start – I always knew the goal was to be self employed. It’s the only real way to control your own destiny. My father was self employed and growing up he always told us ‘ you want to work for yourself.’ That is the best lesson I got from him.
Tell us about some of the "Big Names" that you have worked with? Who is your favorite? Why?
Well, over the years I’ve been in the company of some of the biggest names in Hollywood . But you know what, I’ve learned to separate the art from the artist. In the end, people are just people. We are all riddled with the same human anxieties and frailties. The art an individual is able to evoke is a gift from the Most High. I think our culture loses sight of that.
What are the services that you offer?
In addition to publicity, we offer management services, branding and consulting. I cover the entertainment realm, and my associate in Atlanta , Edrea Davis, covers the political realm.
What are some of the adversities that you deal with in being a female business owner? How do you overcome them?
To be honest, I always used being female to my advantage. Femininity is power. But there are battles. Sometimes folks feel like they don’t have to pay you or they can play you. But when you come from a place and space of power – you will always win.
Where is Jazzmyne PR based? How do you feel about celebrating 20 years of service?
After 20 years, my business is still home based. I currently live in the high desert, about 70 miles outside of L.A. in the Antelope Valley . It takes me about 45 to 60 minutes to get to Los Angeles , but it is a very beautiful and serene drive. I am blessed to be still here, when I sit and think about it – 20 years is a long time. I have days where I am tired and weary… but my mantra is “And still I Rise.” I truly stand on the shoulders of my ancestors. No way I could do this alone !
What are your keys to success?
Faith is the key to success. It sounds corny and worn out – but it is so true! My other success key is to always give every client your best service. A good reputation is like money in the bank !
How do you maintain your inner strength?
I actually meditate daily, one to three times a day! I shut down everything and take time to go within and commune with the Most High. She gives me my strength and my peace. Because if I looked for it in the outer realm, I would be a mad woman !!!
An Affirmation that you live by:
I have a few:
“God/Goddess is with me and for me. I live, move and have my being in the Mother. I am the power and the presence of the Most High.”
CONGRATULATIONS MAKEDA FOR 20 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE
WWW.JAZZMYNEPR.COM
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