We were lucky to catch up with Alexis Noble recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Alexis , so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?
From a young age, I felt like an outsider—with people who looked like me and with those who didn’t. I was always going against the grain, challenging the trends and norms that surrounded me. I was the kid, and later the adult, who wanted to be ahead of what was to come, even if it meant being the only person doing it.
This mindset often placed me in uncharted territory. Whether it was pursuing unconventional ideas or stepping into rooms where no one shared my background or experiences, I found myself standing alone. But rather than being intimidated by isolation, I embraced it. It became my strength, a marker of my willingness to innovate and push boundaries.
Being the only one taught me resilience and adaptability. I learned to trust my instincts, to advocate for my vision, and to find power in my individuality. It also gave me the courage to connect with others in authentic ways, building bridges across differences and creating spaces where diverse perspectives could thrive.
Through these experiences, I’ve come to understand that being the only one in the room isn’t just about surviving—it’s about leading. It’s about using that unique position to pave the way for others, to ensure that the rooms of the future are more inclusive and representative. And as I continue to navigate these spaces, I carry with me the lessons of my younger self: to stay ahead, to stand firm, and to never shy away from being the first, knowing that my journey is part of a larger story that inspires others to follow.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
As a curator, storyteller, and creative director, my work revolves around amplifying underrepresented voices and fostering spaces for dialogue and connection through art. At Vibe Studio Jxn, I have the privilege of creating exhibitions and programs that not only showcase incredible talent but also bring the community together in meaningful ways.
What excites me most about this work is its ability to inspire transformation. Every exhibition is an opportunity to tell a story, spark a conversation, and empower someone to see the world—or themselves—differently. My brand is rooted in authenticity, creativity, and the belief that art can be a catalyst for change.
Currently, I am focusing on expanding my work at Vibe Studio Jxn, Mississippi’s first Black-owned art gallery. This includes launching innovative community programs that combine art, culture, and education. For example, our Creative Sessions program empowers teens to learn curatorial skills and mount their own exhibitions, fostering the next generation of creative leaders. Additionally, we are enhancing audience engagement through workshops, open mic events like Verbal Verses, and interactive art installations.
On the horizon are exciting collaborations and events, such as In Focus: A Photo Party, which invites the community to explore photography as a creative medium. Vibe Studio Jxn also offers custom merchandise services, including personalized items like mugs, totes, and coasters, allowing art lovers to take home a piece of the creative energy we foster.
Through these expansions and initiatives, my goal is to continue building a space where art not only inspires but also unites the community. In connection of a coffee shop that is very much deserving.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Looking back, the three qualities that have been most impactful in my journey are resilience, adaptability, and vision.
Resilience taught me how to navigate challenges and maintain my focus, even when I felt like the only one in the room. For anyone starting their journey, I recommend embracing setbacks as learning experiences and building a strong support system of like-minded individuals who uplift you.
Adaptability allowed me to thrive in spaces that weren’t always designed for me. Being open to change and learning how to pivot when faced with obstacles has been invaluable. My advice is to remain flexible, seek out new opportunities, and never stop learning.
Vision has been the driving force behind everything I do. It’s what fuels my passion and keeps me striving to create spaces and art that inspire others. To develop your vision, take the time to reflect on your purpose, set clear goals, and never be afraid to think big.
Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?
God and the Holy Spirit have been my constant guides, providing me with strength, wisdom, and clarity in moments when I felt lost or overwhelmed. Through prayer and reflection, I’ve been able to navigate challenges with a sense of purpose and peace, trusting that every experience—good or bad—is shaping me into the person I’m meant to be.
At the same time, I recognize that the people who made my journey difficult or tried to undermine my efforts have also played a significant role in my growth. Their resistance taught me resilience and helped sharpen my focus. Each obstacle they created forced me to dig deeper, work harder, and find creative solutions to keep moving forward.
In many ways, these individuals unintentionally became some of my greatest teachers, showing me the importance of perseverance and faith. Together, these spiritual and earthly lessons have shaped the way I approach my work, my relationships, and my goals. My advice to others is to embrace every experience—trust in God for guidance and let even the challenges mold you into a stronger, more determined version of yourself.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.vibestudiojxn.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexisnobl.e/
Image Credits
photo with black and white blouse is shot by Kwame Cohran
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
