Creating a Brand That’s True to Me
In a world where everyone is trying to be unique in some type of way, personal branding is essential. Especially as a PR practitioner, where connections and perception matter, how I present myself can profoundly shape the opportunities I get and the impact I make. But instead of just building a brand for the sake of it, I want mine to be real, meaningful, and true to who I am.
My Mission: More Than Just PR
Let’s be real—public relations is competitive. Everyone wants to make an impact, land the best opportunities, and build a name for themselves. But for me, PR isn’t just about crafting the perfect pitch or managing images. It’s about telling stories that matter, making connections that last, and staying true to who I am while doing it.
As a young Black woman stepping into this industry, my mission is simple: navigate PR with authenticity, build a career that reflects my values, and uplift others along the way. I don’t just want to be good at this—I want to make a difference.
The Competition: Who Am I Up Against?
The biggest competition? My peers. I’m surrounded by smart, ambitious, and driven PR students who are all working just as hard as I am. We’re all fighting for the same internships, networking opportunities, and eventually, jobs. But here’s the thing—I don’t see competition as a bad thing. If anything, it pushes me to be better.
What sets me apart isn’t just my work ethic or my skills (though those are important, too). It’s my perspective, my experiences, and my commitment to staying true to myself in an industry that can sometimes feel all about perception. I’m not here to just blend in—I’m here to stand out in my own way.
Building My Brand Foundation
Every strong brand has a foundation, and mine is built on three key pillars:
- Perseverance: I know I’ll face obstacles, but I also know I have the strength to push through. Whether it’s proving myself in a competitive industry or overcoming setbacks, I won’t let challenges define me—I’ll let them refine me.
- Authenticity: In PR, so much of the job is about crafting a message, but I never want to lose sight of who I am. My personal brand is about being real, being honest, and aligning myself with opportunities and people that reflect my values.
- Empowerment: Success isn’t just personal—it’s collective. I want to uplift and inspire others, especially young Black women who might not always see themselves represented in PR. If I can open doors for others while walking through my own, I know I’m doing something right.
Looking to the Future
Right now, I’m laying the groundwork—studying, searching for internships, networking, and sharpening my skills. But where do I see my brand going?
I want to work in PR in a way that aligns with my values, whether that’s in sports, entertainment, or brand management. I see myself working with organizations and individuals who have powerful stories to tell and helping shape narratives that truly make an impact. Long-term, I want to be able to mentor and support other young women in PR, creating a space where we can all thrive together.
At the end of the day, my brand is me. And I’m building something that’s not just about getting ahead but about making space for others, telling meaningful stories, and staying true to who I am every step of the way. I have had to learn not to be afraid to take up space. There’s room for all of us at the table—we just have to be bold enough to claim our seats.