We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Michelle Ifediba a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Michelle , 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?
Creativity is the heartbeat of my existence, a force that drives me to explore, create, and connect with the world around me. Keeping my creative spirit alive is not just a goal; it is a way of life. Through various passion projects, continuous learning, and a deep curiosity about the human experience, I find endless inspiration and joy.
One of my most cherished creative outlets is my Instagram page, MelanatedFilm. This project is a celebration of Black culture, capturing the beauty, diversity, and resilience of Black people in Los Angeles. Through my lens, I strive to tell their stories, highlighting the richness of their experiences and the strength of their spirit. Each photograph is a testament to the vibrant tapestry of our community, a visual narrative that speaks to the soul. MelanatedFilm is more than just a collection of images; it is a tribute to the people who inspire me every day.
In addition to photography, I am also deeply passionate about writing. Currently, I am in the midst of writing my own book on Google Docs, which has now surpassed 300,000 words. This project started as a fun endeavor, a way to channel my thoughts and ideas into a cohesive narrative. Inspired by the quote, “If there’s a book that you want to read that’s not on the shelves, write it yourself,” I embarked on this literary journey to create a story that resonates deeply with me. As the story unfolds, I find myself immersed in a world of my own creation, where characters come to life and plotlines weave intricate patterns. Writing this book is a journey of discovery, not only of the story itself but also of my own creative potential. To commemorate this monumental effort, I am printing my own personal copy, a tangible testament to my dedication and passion.
My love for learning extends beyond my personal projects. I am an avid reader, constantly seeking new perspectives and insights. Books have always been a sanctuary for me, a place where I can lose myself in different worlds and emerge with a deeper understanding of my own. Alongside reading, I enrich my mind with podcasts and think pieces on YouTube. These mediums offer a wealth of knowledge and inspiration, allowing me to explore a wide range of topics and ideas. From thought-provoking discussions on society and culture to deep dives into science and technology, each podcast and video expands my horizons and fuels my creativity.
Podcasts, in particular, have become a staple in my daily routine. Whether I’m commuting, working out, or simply relaxing, I find solace in the voices of experts and storytellers who share their wisdom and experiences. These auditory journeys spark new ideas and challenge me to think critically about the world. Similarly, think pieces on YouTube provide a visual and intellectual feast, combining compelling narratives with powerful imagery. They encourage me to question, to reflect, and to grow.
In embracing these diverse sources of inspiration, I have learned the importance of staying curious and open-minded. Creativity flourishes when we expose ourselves to new experiences and perspectives. It is in the intersection of different ideas that innovation is born. By continuously feeding my mind and nurturing my passions, I ensure that my creativity remains vibrant and ever-evolving.
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 am currently pursuing a dual degree at the University of California, Berkeley, working towards a BA in Media Studies with an emphasis in Digital Studies, and a BS in Data Science with an emphasis in Business and Industrial Analytics. This unique combination of studies allows me to blend my passion for media and storytelling with the analytical skills needed to navigate the data-driven world.
My professional experience includes roles that have significantly shaped my skills and interests. At Sage Publications, as a Library Editorial Intern, I conducted commissioning and peer review research, performed market research, and contributed to content accuracy and multimedia ideas. As a Public Relations Intern at Wicked Creative, I drafted press releases, maintained media contact databases, and monitored media coverage to provide clients with valuable insights. My role as a Digital Media Production Intern at UC Berkeley involved managing metadata, sourcing new content, and supporting academic activities. Writing engaging articles and creating video content to highlight the diverse community on campus were my responsibilities as a Staff Writer for The Associated Students of the University of California. As a Screenwriter for DAES Film Collective, I created and adapted scripts, fostering a collaborative creative process and enhancing the quality of film projects. Additionally, as a Social Media Manager at Vista Sotheby’s Realty, I developed social media strategies, monitored channels, and increased engagement.
My creative journey is deeply rooted in my upbringing in a Nigerian American community in Inglewood, California. Our community thrived on respect for elders, a value that was instilled in me from a young age. My father’s journey is particularly inspiring—he came to the United States at the age of 32. With no place of his own, he slept on my uncle’s couch and worked two jobs to make ends meet. His determination and hard work paid off as he eventually became a teacher and later transitioned to a full-time contractor in Los Angeles. Despite the challenges, he successfully raised my siblings and me, instilling in us the importance of perseverance, hard work, and respect for our roots.
I am constantly looking for new ways to connect with my audience and share my passion projects
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
1. Resilience:
Resilience is the ability to withstand and recover from adversity. Growing up in a Nigerian American community where respect for elders and hard work were paramount, I learned the importance of perseverance from my father. He came to the United States, through sheer determination, worked multiple jobs, became a teacher, and eventually transitioned to a full-time contractor. His journey instilled in me the belief that setbacks are not permanent and that persistence is key to overcoming obstacles.
Advice:
For those early in their journey, embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Understand that failures are not endpoints but stepping stones. Develop a mindset that views obstacles as temporary and surmountable. Surround yourself with supportive mentors and peers who can provide encouragement and perspective during tough times.
2. Curiosity:
Curiosity has been a driving force behind my pursuit of knowledge and creative endeavors. Whether it’s exploring new trends in media and data science, or delving into diverse topics through books, podcasts, and think pieces on YouTube, my curiosity has fueled my passion for continuous learning. It has allowed me to stay updated with emerging trends and expand my horizons.
Advice:
Cultivate a habit of lifelong learning. Stay curious about the world around you and never stop asking questions. Seek out new experiences and expose yourself to different perspectives. Read widely, listen to podcasts, watch documentaries, and engage in meaningful conversations. This will not only broaden your knowledge but also inspire innovative ideas.
3. Effective Communication:
Effective communication has been essential in all my professional roles, from drafting compelling press releases as a Public Relations Intern to creating engaging articles and video content as a Staff Writer. It has enabled me to convey ideas clearly, build strong relationships, and collaborate effectively with others.
Advice:
Develop your communication skills, both written and verbal. Practice writing regularly, whether it’s through blogging, journaling, or creating content. Engage in public speaking opportunities to build confidence and articulate your ideas clearly. Active listening is also crucial—pay attention to others’ perspectives and respond thoughtfully. Effective communication is a skill that will serve you well in any field.
What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?
When I feel overwhelmed, I like to revert back to the simple things in my childhood that made me. happy. Whether that be taking a break to paint something, or playing Minecraft with classical music in the background- anything that can still my mind and keep me grounded, is the best way for me to deal with being overwhelmed.
One of the most profound realizations I’ve had on my creative journey is that passions don’t die when you leave elementary school. The dreams, interests, and hobbies that ignite our imaginations as children hold a unique and enduring power. Even if we don’t pursue these passions as careers, it is essential to nurture them throughout our lives. They are vital to our sense of fulfillment and creativity.
It’s easy to get caught up in the demands of adult life—careers, responsibilities, and the constant rush of day-to-day activities. In this whirlwind, our creative pursuits can sometimes take a back seat. However, it’s crucial to remember that watering yourself, giving time and space to your creative passions, is not just a luxury; it’s a necessity. Creativity is a form of self-care. It enriches our lives, providing joy, relaxation, and a means of self-expression that is unparalleled.
Passions are like plants—they need regular watering to thrive. Creativity doesn’t disappear; it just waits patiently for us to return to it. So, nurture your inner artist, writer, musician, or whatever creative persona you hold within. The act of creating is not only fulfilling but also a powerful way to connect with your authentic self and the world around you.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.instagram.com/melanatedfilm/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michelleifediba/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelleifediba/
- Other: https://michellaneous.substack.com
Image Credits
Emile Myers
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