We were lucky to catch up with Hamilton Darden II recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hamilton, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
There have numerous of times where I have been the only African American or the only gay man sitting in a board room or just in discussion amongst different people. I learned that although it can be very nerve recking when your’e the only one of your kind in that room but, there is beauty in it as well. I get to proudly express who I am and what I am thinking respectfully and I believe that’s where much of the success comes from. The confidence that I have built over the past years allowed me to feel that I am just as important as everyone else in the room with me. I’ve earned positions through my hard work and the platform given I’m gonna represent myself, my community and my talent as a proud African American gay man in any room I’m in, even when I’m the only one.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I have recently graduated with a Bachelors of Science degree in Graphic Design from Chowan University in Murfreesboro, NC. I’ve grown so much as a person but more so a graphic designer, I debut my first art showcase in late April entitled, “The Emancipation of Hamilton” it was a complete success and more. In addition I debut my official website to the world where I showcase all of my graphic work I have done. I’m in collaborations with people at the moment with helping them build up their brand while also expanding mine own even more.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
I would say the three skills that were most impactful to my journey was, one being in love with your passion. Being consistent with your craft and practicing on your craft so that you can simply be the best at it. Another skill would be not being prideful for asking for help when your stuck it can be in a creative block or need advice that information/ advice giving can really help change your perspective. The third skill would be to talk with or find people that are in the same field as you it helps build a community in a sense everyone has a different skill level set where you can help each other out.
Some advice I would give to folks that are early in their journey would be trust yourself and to put 100% effort into your passions.
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
God who is the head of my life has kept me and guided me when I have become lost and had challenges without him I wouldn’t be here and any platform I’m on I am gonna give him thanks for what he’s simply done and what he’s about to do for me. My mother Denise and my sister Jalen are my backbones they’re literally my everything, they’ve held my feet to the fire at times, taught me how to maneuver in this mad world and just how to be myself. I love them with all of entire heart truly.
Contact Info:
- Website: hamiltondardenii.com
- Instagram: @itshamiilton
- Linkedin: Hamilton Darden II
