Meet Jamariah Kelly

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Jamariah Kelly a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Jamariah, we’re so appreciative of you taking the time to share your nuggets of wisdom with our community. One of the topics we think is most important for folks looking to level up their lives is building up their self-confidence and self-esteem. Can you share how you developed your confidence?

I developed my confidence and self esteem when I moved from Connecticut to Atlanta. I had never been gasped at in awe or asked “what are you? Where are you from?” Every where I went here, I was called “pretty black” or “gorgeous”. Growing up dark skinned & curvier, up north was hell tbh. I was the butt of every dark skinned joke, I was referred to as black and not in a complimentary way. I had to hear it from strangers to actually see it because my family either never mentioned my beauty out loud. I started to really see my beauty and embrace my smooth sepia skin.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

I create safe spaces for black women to be seen, celebrated and supported. When I creatively direct content, I tell a story. I know our best angles, lighting and environments. What’s most exciting is the way black women light up in my presence, that alone is so special to me. What I want people to know about FBW Brand is that it is my purpose and that’s why I’m so passionate about it. In 2025 they can expect the brand to elevate and reach even higher heights. We’re building the blog back up brick by brick, to set the foundation for the magazine!

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?

Learning how to speak up for myself was huge. I was raised to be a people pleaser and for years, I didn’t honor my own voice. When I spoke out, I was punished. Continue to speak anyways, if you’re reading this. Also, sharpening my discernment. Everyone doesn’t mean you well, all money isn’t good money and by saying no to something less than what you deserve, you have the room to say yes to the things you do. Choose whoever and whatever speaks to your spirit, not your flesh.

Is there a particular challenge you are currently facing?

The number 1 challenge I face, is probably one many black creators face and that is funding & recognition. To overcome this, I am finally researching and applying to grants. We were taught to work hard with our head down and eventually it would pay off. While that is true, I work hard with my head up. And even when I don’t feel qualified, I put my content out there anyways. I don’t need all the followers, I just need the right ones to see me.

Contact Info:

Suggest a Story: BoldJourney is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems,
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
Productivity
Where do you get your work ethic from?

We’ve all heard the phrase “work hard, play hard,” but where does our work ethic

Productivity
Tactics & Strategies for Keeping Your Creativity Strong

With the rapid improvements in AI, it’s more important than ever to keep your creativity

Productivity
From Burnout to Balance: The Role of Self-Care

Burning out is one of the primary risks you face as you work towards your