Meet Deity Mone’k

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Deity Mone’k a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi DEITY, 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?

Many times I have been the only young black woman in the room, though to some that can be intimidating I’m completely at ease with that, I feel like that gives me opportunities to highlight the difference while showcasing how alike we all are. No matter what room I’m in I am always authentically myself and what usually happens is people appreciate my unique style and fly personality so everyone gravitates towards me. I never allow who’s in a room to derail me from my plan, I am a Deity and I can walk into any room and mix and mingle, while bringing out the best in my peers.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

Hello everyone my name is Deity Mone’k and I look forward to connecting with you with my words, my films, and my life.

I am a Creative Director, Filmmaker, and Social Activist. My focus is to inspire people whether it is through my films and photography or my conversations and community outreach. Over the past few years I have worked to bless hundreds of Miami students with backpack supplies, clothing and mentorship. As well as participated in the creation of numerous music videos, television series and films. These experiences have been a blessing and have propelled me to continue to push my creative envelope. I am in the process of creating a poetry film series, I am very excited about my new project and witnessing the mixture of spoken words beautifully weaved with various forms of expression, body movement, and eccentric visuals.

In addition, I am also a student. I understand the importance of learning the fundamentals of my craft and appreciate the opportunities it has afforded me. I have learned the origin of my craft, extended my awareness to the various aspects of film, while creating authentic project and exploring what it means to create in this new environment.

I am passionate about Film and Social Activism and want to consolidate these two aspects of my life into a wonderful project that will shed light on an important topic and provide a meaningful impact.

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?

The three most important qualities and skills that were impactful in my journey were tenacity, passion, and belief in self. To be an artist you have to have tenacity, you need to be determined and not give up, there were times where I didn’t know where to begin, how to edit, how to network etc, But, with perseverance I kept trying and I figured it out. I’m thankful I didn’t give up because I was able to meet other creators, complete my own films and projects, network, learn and so much more. Another quality is passion, you have to have passion in what you do. My take on passion is In life your going to have to work anyways, you might as well work towards something your passionate about. I am passionate about film just as I am passionate about helping people, because I’m blessed with the opportunity to love what I do I put my heart and soul into everything which is positively reflected in my work. Lastly and most importantly you need to believe in yourself, there are going to be tons of people who love and support you but there’s going to be twice as many people who will critique and criticize your work, you need to have an insane amount of self belief. You need to believe in your self so much people think your either crazy or destined for greatness, you cannot allow any doubt or criticism to stop you from pursuing your goal, I never have and I’m glad I didn’t because my belief in my self has propelled me forward and pushed me closer to success.

What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?

The most impactful thing my parents did for me was allow me to be myself, they never boxed me in or told me I couldn’t do something. They always encouraged me and provided me with the necessary tools to go out and try. Honestly it’s kinda funny my parents had faith in me before I had faith in myself. Having a strong foundation around you who encourages you, corrects you, and believes in you is imperative to one’s success. I wouldn’t be where I am today if my parents didn’t support me and allow me to blossom into the person I am.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.deitymonek.com
• Instagram: @Deityfilmz @Seekchanges_
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DeityMonek

Image Credits

Photographer: Barbara Ximena