We recently connected with Shekenah Campbell and have shared our conversation below.
Shekenah, we’ve been so fortunate to work with so many incredible folks and one common thread we have seen is that those who have built amazing lives for themselves are also often the folks who are most generous. Where do you think your generosity comes from?
My generosity comes from me observing the hard work of others and seeing them not be able to reap the benefits. Growing up I went to school for something in the medical field that guaranteed me a certain lifestyle. I knew many people in the art industry growing up and they didn’t see the income. Art has shaped the tools for me. Art is subjective and I want to see my people gain income for what they are good at.
This is how my pop up shop series started. As an ode to my friends to give them an opportunity to network, sell their art and feel like a real business owner. Some who were unemployed at the time or couldn’t afford websites, now had a chance to make a direct sale.
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 am currently trying not to do any of the things I’ve done before. I think I reached a cap on how I’ve operated in the past. This year I plan on reaching my audience in various ways outside of pop up shops. However, I plan on staying true to the origin of OURS, which is extending opportunities to artists in the community.
I still work with my friends. The models, photographers, even the person who helps me with my graphics is a friend. This is easy for me to do because I aspire to be like the Issa Raes of the world. Issa always talks about building horizontally and hiring those around her to work on projects versus bigger names. I admire that.
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?
- Communication
It will not be learned on your phone or on social media. You have to put yourself out there and speak to people in person. You have to know the difference between being in selfie mode versus live and direct. Your aura is important and should be felt, good or bad. Finding out your energy isn’t desirable in person allows you to take a step back and water yourself in ways a “successful business” can’t. - Consistency
PLAN! Create a schedule! Plan when you are in your best moods and having your best days because some days you won’t be in the mood. It’s a superpower when all you have to do is press “send” or “post” on your shittiest day. - Financial Literacy
Understanding the difference between how much money you want to make and how much money you NEED! Don’t aimlessly produce inventory without having a specific financial goal. This will help you maturely prepare your inventory and expectations for profit. In a very controversial Charleston White interview, he posed the question “How much money do you need?” which is a great question for anyone starting a business, going to school, or currently in their career. When is enough, enough? Producing too much is like staying at a job too long, or working too hard, or pursuing something your parents want for you more than you want for yourself. As the new generation of entrepreneurs, we should lead by example on what is truly necessary in our journey towards financial freedom.
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
When I am overwhelmed I allow myself to step away from whatever is overwhelming me. I focus on surrounding myself with people that remind me to LIGHT.
Also, I journal weekly, go to therapy, get a massage and facial monthly. Feeling heavy and overwhelmed is inevitable and I never want it to take away from my generosity. So this routine is crucial!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://oursnyc.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oursnyc
Image Credits
Ours NYC
