We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Debbie Onyibe a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Debbie, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
My journey to discovering my purpose as a creative is intricately woven with my faith and a deep connection to God. It began with a profound passion for various creative outlets, such as singing, playing the guitar, writing novels, and creating art. This diverse range of interests fueled my curiosity and allowed me to explore different forms of self-expression, always with a sense of gratitude for the creative gifts bestowed upon me by the Creator.
During my educational journey at SCAD, where I pursued a degree in Advertising and Branded Entertainment, I saw each learning opportunity as a manifestation of God’s guidance. It was during this time that I recognized the potential of my creativity as a divine gift, meant to be used for positive impact and meaningful connections.
Transitioning into the professional realm, my work on projects for global and local organizations became a testament to God’s guidance in my creative endeavors. Whether it was my role as the Senior Creative Director at PayDay or Founder of Spirete, I approached each project with a sense of purpose, understanding that my creativity was a reflection of God’s grace.
Beyond professional achievements, my purpose became deeply intertwined with a passion for humanity, a calling I believe God placed on my heart. Orchestrating impactful initiatives at Spirete or mentoring young people became acts of service inspired by my faith, making a positive impact on the lives of others in alignment with God’s purpose for me.
Recognition for my contributions, such as winning the American Advertising Award in 2021 and being honored as the Salutatorian at SCAD, felt like divine affirmations. These acknowledgments reinforced my commitment to creativity as a sacred calling, acknowledging God as the ultimate source of creativity and inspiration.
Ultimately, my purpose as a creative aligns with my values of creativity, empathy, and a people-first approach, all inspired by my faith in God. It’s about using the creative talents bestowed upon me by God to connect with others, tell compelling stories, and contribute positively to the world. Each creative endeavor becomes a form of worship and a step in the ongoing journey of self-discovery and growth, guided by the divine hand of the Creator.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
Absolutely. Professionally, I am deeply immersed in the dynamic world of creativity, brand strategy, and artistic expression. Currently serving as the Senior Creative Director at PayDay, my role involves crafting and executing creative strategies that have resulted in significant boosts in engagement and conversions. What excites me the most is the ability to blend innovation with strategic thinking, creating impactful campaigns that resonate with our audience. One of our noteworthy achievements was securing a spot in Techstars’ 2021 cohort, a testament to the power of creative branding.
Simultaneously, I wear the hat of Founder and Lead Designer at Spirete, where I oversee brand strategy and marketing initiatives for various companies and events. With an average event attendance of 150 people, Spirete has become a platform where creativity and innovation converge to leave a lasting impression. Utilizing tools such as Adobe Suites, I’ve produced over 500 promotional videos, designs, illustrations, and animations, continually pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the realm of creative expression.
My commitment to making a positive impact extends to my role as a Co-Founder & Brand Strategist at Erupt Inc, where I led publicity, social communications, and branding efforts. In 2019, our strategic marketing initiatives resulted in 758 applications from 89 countries, a testament to the global reach and impact of our work. Creating over 100 design assets, including website landing pages and submission pages, allowed us to effectively communicate our brand’s message and mission.
What’s most exciting for me professionally is the intersection of creativity, strategy, and positive impact. Whether it’s crafting a compelling brand narrative, orchestrating transformative events, or mentoring the next generation of leaders, each endeavor is an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the world.
In addition to my work in the creative and branding space, I’m thrilled to share that I’m also deeply involved in the world of music. Over the past year, my music has resonated with listeners, accumulating an incredible 160,000 streams. This journey in music has been a soulful exploration, allowing me to connect with a broader audience and share a different dimension of my creativity.
What excites me the most about my music is the ability to evoke emotions and create a unique auditory experience for my listeners. Each stream represents a connection made through the universal language of music, and I am genuinely grateful for the support and resonance my work has found.
As I continue to grow in both my professional and musical endeavors, I see these two worlds converging to create a rich tapestry of creativity. Whether through visual arts, strategic branding, or the emotive power of music, my goal remains the same – to inspire, connect, and contribute positively to the world. I look forward to sharing more of my musical journey and exploring new horizons in the coming year.
Looking ahead, I am continuously exploring new avenues to expand my impact. The launch of innovative campaigns, exploration of emerging technologies, and collaboration with like-minded individuals and organizations are all on the horizon. I am driven by a constant desire to evolve creatively and contribute to a world where positive change is not only possible but inevitable.
In summary, my professional journey is a well watered garden of creativity, innovation, and positive impact. I find joy in pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved through artistic expression, strategic thinking, and a genuine commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. Each day brings new opportunities for growth, and I am excited about the limitless potential of creativity to shape narratives, inspire, and drive positive change.
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?
Certainly. Looking back, three key elements stand out in shaping my journey.
Collaboration and Teamwork: Successful projects often result from the collective effort of diverse teams. The ability to collaborate effectively and appreciate the strengths of each team member has been fundamental to my success. My advice is to actively seek collaborative opportunities, engage in group projects, and embrace diverse perspectives. Effective communication and teamwork are skills that can be honed through practical experience, so don’t shy away from opportunities to work with others.
Adaptability and Continuous Learning: The creative field is dynamic, with trends and technologies constantly evolving. The willingness to adapt to new tools and embrace a mindset of continuous learning has been critical to staying relevant. My advice is to invest time in staying informed about industry trends and technologies. Enroll in courses, attend workshops, and never underestimate the power of self-directed learning. Embrace change as an opportunity for growth rather than a challenge.
Empathy and a People-First Approach: Understanding the audience and connecting with them on a deeper level is essential for impactful storytelling. Empathy has been a guiding principle in my creative process, ensuring authenticity in every project. My advice is to develop your ability to empathize by actively listening and seeking to understand others’ perspectives. Prioritize a people-first approach in your projects, whether in design, branding, or any creative endeavor. Authenticity resonates with audiences.
Advice for Early Career Professionals:
Build a Diverse Portfolio: Early in your career, focus on creating a portfolio that reflects your versatility and passion. Showcase a range of projects that highlight different aspects of your skill set and creative interests.
Seek Mentorship: Find mentors who can provide valuable insights and guidance based on their experiences. Mentorship is a powerful tool for professional development, offering practical advice and a roadmap for navigating your chosen industry.
Stay Resilient and Embrace the idea of Continuous Perfection: The creative journey involves experimentation, and not every project will be a resounding success, but for each stage and at every level, success can be measured. As long as you’re better than the you of yesterday, you’re a success! Learn from setbacks, stay resilient, and view “failures” as opportunities for growth and refinement.
Remember, your unique journey is an ongoing narrative of growth and discovery. Stay true to your passion, embrace opportunities for learning, and approach each challenge with a positive and adaptable mindset.
Thanks so much for sharing all these insights with us today. Before we go, is there a book that’s played in important role in your development?
The Holy Bible has been an indispensable source of wisdom and guidance in my life and career. While it encompasses a vast array of Truths, here’s a few key principles that have resonated with me profoundly, and can help anyone
Proverbs 3:5-6 – Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight: This verse underscores the importance of trust and surrendering to a higher purpose. It has been a guiding light in times of decision-making and navigating the uncertainties of my journey.
Jeremiah 29:11 – For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope: This verse reminds me that there is a divine plan for my life, instilling confidence and reassurance, especially during challenging times.
Philippians 4:13 – I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me: This verse serves as a powerful affirmation of resilience and the belief that with faith, there are no limits to what one can achieve. It has been a source of strength in facing professional challenges.
The Bible, with its timeless wisdom, provides a foundation for moral and ethical principles that guide not just my career but every aspect of my life. It encourages compassion, integrity, and a people-centric approach, values that I strive to incorporate into my work and interactions.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.spireteinc.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nuee_creation/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-onyibe/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nuee_creation
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@nuee_creation
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2ZrqdOOiVXB2EmEiPmGzfo?si=yRnygqjTRJGWVcCGGgyEvQ
