Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Lewis.
Hi Jessica, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My story starts in middle school. I used to write for the newsletter and really enjoyed it, although my true plan was to become a doctor. After attending a medical camp, I realized that I wasn’t about the life, so I pivoted back to writing, Journalism specifically. I took Journalism and Yearbook class during my junior and senior year and then majored in Journalism at Penn State.
In 2014, I graduated and just knew that I would be writing for Elle, Essence, etc., but God had other plans. After a horrible break-up, I drove over 12 hours by myself back to the DMV from Atlanta. I decided to start a blog of my own. That blog was known as Klassified, which later was rebranded into Redefine Woman (a women’s lifestyle brand and platform that aims to help women be their authentic selves).
In 2017, I wrote, produced and directed my debut web series called The C-Word. It’s a millennial-age drama that shows celibacy from a man’s lens. The web series has garnered over 100,000 views on YouTube, and I won “Best Writer” at Glow Film Fest in Hollywood, CA.
In 2021, I’m walking into a new season. I am expanding my horizons as a freelance brand storyteller, editor and graphic designer. If God has given me a vision, I go hard! I truly believe that I can have it all. The career, the happy family, and the life full of joy. Right now, I am focusing on fine-tuning my craft, creating boundaries that work for me, and living my best life.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
NO! LOL struggles have been imposter syndrome (or self-doubt), spending my last dime on my craft, losing friends, and learning who my ideal client is through trial and error. I also have had some mental health struggles that therapy has helped me address.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Professionally, I’m a brand storyteller, so basically, I help brands tell their stories in authentic ways. What does this mean literally? It means that curate strategies, content, etc. for brands who need help displaying themselves on social media. I still write screenplays and edit and create eBooks for clients.
Passion wise I just enjoy writing and cultivating relationships. I could be screenwriting, editing, blogging, etc. As long as I’m writing, I’m in my happy place. I think what sets me apart is my authenticity. I’m always myself no matter what types of crowds I’m around. I am confident in the gifts God has given me, yet humble. It also brings me joy to help others. I’m not in it for the money. I’m in it for the impact I have on others.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
They can watch The C-Word (Web Series) on YouTube, follow me on Insta @jessicadanyele for funny reels, yummy meals, and relationship advice. If you would like to collab, contact jlewiswrites@gmail.com. Serious inquiries only.
Contact Info:
- Email: jlewiswrites@gmail.com
- Website: https://www.honeybook.com/widget/jl_freelance_services_177122/cf_id/60423d269b70861952c1f9da
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicadanyele/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jlewiswrites
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2XyX7h-K2Wk&list=PL24mPaOohlgbTT4da5t6fQQV4U1-FzSi0
Image Credits
Glow Film Fest for the Best Writer photo.
