We recently connected with Damali McDowell and have shared our conversation below.
Damali, 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?
Growing up in the Southwest region of the United States in Albuquerque, New Mexico and Tucson, Arizona, I was often the only Black person in the room. Whether it was at school or work, I was usually the minority and I learned at a very young age how to acclimate to any environment and adapt to, often times, not seeing anyone around me that looked like me. I always felt I had to work ten times harder to make certain that I was properly representing people who looked like me, and that often times set a very high standard of excellence.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
“Meaningful storytelling” is the brand of content we produce. Whether it’s music or movies, our production company thrives on engaging audiences with compelling content. We are currently in the development stage of a new feature film that will tell a true story about a current, modern day Monarchy and Queen. This project will be a theatrical release worldwide, and we will soon be able to share more about the project.
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?
Stay consistent with your plan and keep chipping away at your goals. Always network and build meaningful relationships. Never burn bridges, you never know who you might need one day. I know this seems to be a surface answer, however, it’s truly the key to crossing the finish line. Never stop learning, always be a student of your craft or passion. And lastly, learn from every mistake and let that mistake move you forward. It’s not about the fall, but it’s about how you rise from that fall.
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
My parents absolutely provided a solid support system for me and my siblings. They taught us commitment and kindness are the secret ingredients to living a fulfilled life. In fact, they have been married going on 55 years. Having that solid foundation, gave me endurance to run the race.
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