Meet Cameron Ward

We recently connected with Cameron Ward and have shared our conversation below.

Cameron, thank you so much for joining us. You are such a positive person and it’s something we really admire and so we wanted to start by asking you where you think your optimism comes from?

I find optimism and gratitude in the heart of New Mexico, where you’ll find my family members in the Pueblo of Isleta, a local community in Albuquerque, and a collaboration in Santa Fe. The roots of optimism that I strive to stay connected to are those who long to strive to be creative in their fashion, music, art, and cultural techniques.

Anyone can find these local artists roaming on Art Walk at the beginning of their entrepreneurial business or at local New Mexico events.

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?

Today, working towards a master’s degree in Marketing and Management in Digital Multi-Media, Cameron is starting her new business, Art Off the Rails. This business is meant for any community looking to connect with local resources in their area to help in artistic or entrepreneurial endeavors. Whether they are looking for an event coordinator, gallery curator, printing specialist/ graphic designer, or technical or professional support, AOTR is there to provide.
“Collaboration you need, Community we deserve.”

Think of Art Off the Rails as a contract specialist you seek in your business. Art Off the Rails can go into the hiring process for you and set you up with the right connections for any project, job, and idea you have in mind.
Art Off the Rails has experience in fashion week, gallery openings, business workshops, and social networking events.

You can find Art Off the Rails at www.artofftherails.design on all web browsers.
Big thanks to Advent Studios for the web design.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Looking back on my top three qualities, I look for and strive to remain honest, have excellent communication skills, and have lasting positive business relationships.

Some skills that have impacted me are excellent time management, asking questions, and looking for more opportunities wherever possible.

Things that I wish I had known back then, that I know now, are not waiting for a perfect business partner. If you want to build a business, don’t wait for anyone to hold your hand while striving for your idea. You will most likely succeed on your own.
2. Always ask questions. (There are no dumb questions). Surround yourself with opportunities that give you the space to ask and be creative.
3. Trust your gut. If someone or something is giving you red flags, cut it/ them out.

Advice to anyone in their early journey:
1. If you are working in a group, have those weekly check-in meetings. Ask yourself or the team what is working best and what isn’t.
2. Ditch the sad music and listen to motivational, go-getter music. Your work will not start working unless you do.
3. Surround yourself with people and friends who have goals and motivation and want bigger, better things.
Be open to talking and sharing your struggles and challenges at workshops.

Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?

The community of New Mexico has been the most helpful in reconnecting me with my roots. I have gained the skills and qualities to stay humble in my endeavors and strive to be in a better working community by motivating me to build and better serve my community.
Though there have been a couple of bumps in the road here in New Mexico, my closest friends from high school and my parents have continuously supported and mentored me to stay motivated and independent in my work of practice as an entrepreneur. One of my best friends, Brock, has taught me to be bold and be myself through the passions I gain, and my other best friend, Abbie, has encouraged me to stay true and be creative through my art.

To my ambitious parents who have given me no option to quit but to keep pushing me towards opportunities that come my way while also providing me with the most significant circumstances to achieve higher.
I am not sure where I would be if I didn’t have this support system that I have today.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

Cameron Ward directed the video fashion film. Director Assistant: Brock Sandoval
Film Director: Casa Del Creativo, Cesca Maria Segarra
“I Get Lifted” by KC and the Sunshine Band with native drums by Antonio Zuni and arranged by Truly ULI.

Diversity Photo by @not_avrg on Instagram

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