We recently connected with Felycia Hodges and have shared our conversation below.
Felycia , appreciate you making time for us and sharing your wisdom with the community. So many of us go through similar pain points throughout our journeys and so hearing about how others overcame obstacles can be helpful. One of those struggles is keeping creativity alive despite all the stresses, challenges and problems we might be dealing with. How do you keep your creativity alive?
Keeping my creativity alive involves a mix of seeking new experiences, continuous learning, and surrounding myself with inspiring people. I make it a point to step outside of my comfort zone regularly, whether that’s through traveling to new places, trying different cuisines, or engaging in creative activities that are not directly related to my field. Staying updated with industry trends also plays a crucial role. Additionally, I draw inspiration from everyday environments, like a casual walk or a visit to the grocery store, capturing moments and ideas through photography. I value the insights and energies of my peers and mentors, whose diverse perspectives often challenge my own and spark new ideas.
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?
I’m a graphic designer, but my journey into the art world wasn’t a direct one. Art began as a secondary interest; however, organizing my own wedding two years ago changed everything. I designed every aspect of the event myself—from the invitations to the wedding dress. The positive feedback I received from this personal project revealed the potential of turning my passion into a profession.
One of my significant early achievements was designing a 39ft x 30ft crosswalk as a college student, which was chosen by the mayor and staff of Clarkston. This opportunity to be the creative director and bring my design to life was not only affirming but also fueled my desire to tackle large-scale projects. It led me to a freelance career, where I’ve worked with various organizations, creating impactful designs that often bridge community and creativity. In September, an exciting development will revisit one of my projects: the city of Clarkston plans to repaint the crosswalk to coincide with the annual Refugee Coffee Run, celebrating the community and the arts.
Amidst freelancing, I co-founded Nanas Connect with a close friend, blending our skills in design and marketing. Our company specializes in creating marketing solutions that integrate traditional Indonesian hospitality with cutting-edge digital strategies. At Nanas Connect, we focus on transforming brand narratives into vibrant stories that resonate with audiences, enhancing visibility and fostering genuine connections.
Our approach at Nanas Connect goes beyond typical marketing tactics. We prioritize building lasting relationships and crafting welcoming experiences that reflect the inherent warmth and generosity of our brand. Our mission is to enhance the business potential of our clients, making marketing personal, effective, and transformative.
As we look to the future, Nanas Connect is excited to continue evolving, launching new services, and expanding our reach. We’re committed to making a significant impact in the marketing landscape, and we invite everyone to stay tuned for our upcoming initiatives that promise to further our mission.
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 on my journey, three qualities and skills have been particularly impactful: creativity, adaptability, and the courage to take a leap of faith.
1. Creativity: At the core of any artistic or entrepreneurial endeavor is creativity. It’s not just about having original ideas but also the ability to see things from new perspectives and solve problems in innovative ways. For those just starting out, I recommend immersing yourself in diverse experiences and disciplines. Draw inspiration from everything around you, and don’t be afraid to blend different ideas and concepts. Keep a journal or a digital folder of inspirations and ideas that you can refer to when you feel stuck.
2. Adaptability: The ability to adapt to changing circumstances and embrace new challenges is crucial, especially in fields like design and marketing that are constantly evolving. For those early in their careers, cultivate a mindset of lifelong learning. Attend workshops, take online courses, and seek feedback from peers and mentors. Being adaptable means growing with the changes, not just reacting to them.
3. Leap of Faith: Taking bold steps and believing in yourself are essential, yet it’s equally important to remain grounded in reality. When I decided to design every aspect of my own wedding, it was a leap of faith that propelled my career forward. For newcomers, be bold in your endeavors, but also plan carefully and stay informed about your industry. Trust in your abilities, but also prepare to navigate the challenges that come with new ventures.
For anyone at the beginning of their journey, focus on nurturing these qualities and skills. They not only contribute to your professional success but also enhance your personal growth. Surround yourself with supportive and driven individuals, and remember that every experience is an opportunity to learn and evolve.
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
Reflecting on my journey, I’ve been fortunate to have a strong support network, each contributing uniquely to my development and success.
My business partner: First and foremost, my business partner at Nanas Connect has been instrumental. Our complementary skills in design and marketing have not only fueled our business’s success but also allowed us to learn from each other. Her expertise in strategic thinking and understanding of market dynamics have enriched my own approach to design and business management.
My college mentors: During my college days, I had two mentors who profoundly shaped my professional path. One professor recognized my potential early and challenged me to take on projects that were outside of my comfort zone, helping me build a strong foundation in design principles and client management. Another mentor, my graphic design professor, encouraged me to embrace my uniqueness in my work, teaching me that being different is a strength and that creativity thrives when it dares to stand out.
My husband and friend: My husband and a close friend have been my personal cheerleaders. Their unwavering belief in me has been a constant source of strength. They’ve encouraged me to keep going and push through challenges, reminding me of my capabilities even when doubts crept in. Their support has been a cornerstone of my resilience and persistence.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: nanas_connect
- Other: [email protected]
Image Credits
Cashen Creative
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