We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Jay Hicks. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Jay below.
Jay, so many exciting things to discuss, we can’t wait. Thanks for joining us and we appreciate you sharing your wisdom with our readers. So, maybe we can start by discussing optimism and where your optimism comes from?
To be honest, it comes from the time I have devoted. It comes from the long nights and early mornings chasing a burning passion. It comes from showing up for myself even on the days I don’t have the energy or motivation.
Ultimately, I’m a firm believer that if you continue to show up for yourself for something only you can see, it becomes inevitable that you will achieve whatever it is you are chasing.
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?
Where do I even start?? Life as Jay Hicks this past year has been all about development, growth, and consistency!
This past summer I was fortunate enough to help a non profit organization called H.O.P.E. bring to life a Back-To-School Festival we called Flip The City! We were able to gather 4,000+ book bags and school supplies for our youth in the Durham community. And to see the smiles on their faces light up just makes it all worth it!
Luckily, I can say we are bringing it back again this year – so be on the lookout around August, we’ll have something very special planned for the community!
As of recent, I have been collaborating with local influencer Hellocurtx and hosting ‘IRL SONG WARS’ in downtown Raleigh! We are trying to cultivate a sense of community for our local artists who don’t receive the credit they should. And I must say the response has been tremendous! As we continue to search for new venues and create themes, the energy has been electric each night!
Lastly, one of my favorite passions – photography. Currently I find myself constantly looking for ways to improve, whether if that’s in editing, finding new ideas, or just networking. Photography has a way of bringing people together, and a way to tell a story that can only be portrayed through a lens. So here’s to more connections and experiences!
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?
Consistency, self-reflection, & time management. For me, these were my 3 biggest hurdles, and from time to time I still struggle with. But ultimately, it’s not about mastering all 3, it’s about being aware enough to make a change and adapt to allow yourself to continue to flow in a forward progression.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
I am always looking to collaborate! I feel like that’s how we as creatives continue to evolve, we meet other creators and learn different view points and or perspectives.
If there’s anyone who is into modeling, making music, photography/videography, events/venues, and or marketing I want to talk! I love connecting with new people all the time, so here’s to new connections.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Jay_hicks03 & Flicks.byhicks
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1F3NTulXCJ18ldfHc2IO9W?si=i9ye-2IYRHK8hQeBkGytYA
Image Credits
Flicks.byhicks
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
