Today we’d like to introduce you to Bria Jones
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
From a young age I knew that I wanted to contribute to my community one way or another. Growing up in the Sandtown-Winchester neighborhood of West Baltimore, I often witnessed gang violence, housing crisis, and drug epidemics that continue to cripple my community. “Voices of Resilience” is a community based non-profit that exposes a real life perspective of Baltimore City while simultaneously providing a platform for the residents of Baltimore to be heard. I created “Voices of Resilience” with hopes of improving Baltimore City as well as rectifying everyday injustices.
Baltimore is my home, this City holds a very dear place in my heart. Driven by a commitment to improving Baltimore City, I aim to leverage my experience in community outreach to make a difference through meaningful projects.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Going into this project I had a lot of anxiety which prevented me from starting sooner. I often sat to myself and thought, “Am I the right person for this?”, “Will people listen to me?” “Do they even care?”. I always went back to being that weird little black girl that was afraid to speak up for herself at times. While pursuing this project I was also forced to reflect on my own self worth. In a world that constantly pushes us to measure our value by external achievements, appearance, or social status; I struggled to separate my own worth from how others perceive me. While starting this project I wanted to be in a space where I was self assured enough to be able to stand firmly on my beliefs. I learned the true importance of self worth and it changed my perspective of life. Embracing my truth took patience and self compassion. Despite the obstacles, this journey ultimately bought me a profound sense of inner peace and Resilience that makes it easier to be a more understanding and empathetic person.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a creative director that specializes in project management. I’m mostly known for my work with “Voices of Resilience” as well as my creations as a designer. I’m most proud of my growth as well as my Resilience (no pun intended). I’m not the same person I was 5 years ago. I’m proud that I was able to evolve in a way that not only inspires others, but in a way that also allows me to be someone that gives back to their community. My favorite personal attribute is my personality. I pride myself in staying true to who I am, a kind hearted empathetic person. I’m so thankful for my mother as well as my sisters who instilled being respectful & having morals in my life from a young age. Despite all the trials and tribulations I’ve endured in my life, I never let that have an impact on my character.
Any big plans?
My Plans for the future are to create more, I’m currently working on a short film as well as my winter 2025 lookbook for my personal brand. I plan on doing a lot with the projects i’m currently working on I’m really excited! I also plan to pour back into the city that raised me by being an active participant in the enrichment of Baltimore City.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.instagram.com/briabaltimore/?hl=en
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/voicesofresilience.balti/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@VoicesofResilienceBalti
Image Credits
Bria Jones & Derrick Smith
