Sierra Mercer of Harlem on Life, Lessons & Legacy

We recently had the chance to connect with Sierra Mercer and have shared our conversation below.

Good morning Sierra, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: Have you ever been glad you didn’t act fast?
(Nods head) Okay, Highlight! I love this question as a starter. Have I ever been glad I didn’t act fast? Yea… Absolutely.

Early on in my company’s journey, I was approached to write a film about Black writers caught in the horrors of a sundown town. On paper, it sounded like a big opportunity. The assistant director had chosen me out of more than forty writers – but the moment I heard the premise, I knew it went against my vision. I refused to act quickly just to “get out there” if it meant compromising what I stand for. Declining was easy, and some people took offense, but I’m glad I stayed true to myself, because integrity is everything to me.
Intelligence and energy matter, but without integrity, they have no foundation.

My company was built to represent melanated people authentically, both on screen and behind the scenes. We work twice as hard for opportunities that others are handed, and it’s my mission to create the kind of atmosphere where our stories can thrive. That’s also where people often misunderstand what I do. There’s a belief that focusing solely on Black talent is limiting, and I’ve been told that for my company to truly succeed, I need to broaden my scope.

Exclusivity is a virtue that I believe in, and I’ll never compromise my vision.

For me, success is about building a platform where my community is centered, celebrated, and no longer treated as disposable.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
(Throws up the peace sign) I’m Sierra – but almost everyone calls me CeCe. Hiii!!
I’m an independent film writer and the creative force behind CeCeLyric Productions.

What I’ve built is a testament to resilience – a bounce back from moments when I felt my purpose was once cursed, and a reminder that passion never leaves you if you stay true to your values.

My company represents those often overlooked: the independent creatives, the developers, artists, the so-called “little people” who lack resources and support but embody raw commitment.
We are the ones Hollywood gatekeepers borrow from but rarely acknowledge.

CeCeLyric Productions is dedicated to working with passionate artists who may not yet have the space, platform, or resources to see themselves in the light their dreams reveal. I know firsthand what it feels like to carry talent and vision but lack the industry’s validation, funding, or recognition. That’s why I want young artists and independent creators to have the ability to showcase their gifts with the backing of someone who has walked in those same shoes.

For me, this company isn’t just about producing films – it’s about building a community, creating opportunities, and planting seeds that will grow far beyond me.

On the other side of the screen, I’m the creator of MercerVille, a one-of-a-kind doll comic universe that blends storytelling with artistry to inspire audiences of all ages. Set in an elite Black neighborhood, MercerVille unfolds like a soap opera, with interconnected storylines that echo the sharp wit and cultural commentary of Aaron McGruder’s The Boondocks.

Beyond this imaginative world, I’m expanding the creative reach of my company to include poetry, music, and art. I embody what it means to be a multi-hyphenated creator – pushing boundaries, honoring my community, and transforming hobbies into meaningful, lasting work.

I want it known that this company is my ancestors’ wildest dreams come alive. They endured hardship so I could overcome mine, and I carry their resilience into everything I create. CLP is proof that even when obstacles come, we can still rise, build, and leave behind a legacy that inspires others to do the same.

Right now, I’m working on a film that’s tested every ounce of that perseverance. We’ve gone through four different actresses, exceeded our budget, and faced on-set drama that strained both personal and professional relationships. Yeah! Crazy, right? (Shakes head)

Independent filmmaking often means navigating BIG personalities, lack of professionalism, and the challenges of those unprepared for the work it takes. We lost money, time, and even trust – but what we didn’t lose was drive. My hidden gift is to keep pushing forward, no matter what. Sounds cliche, but I promise I’m not the girl who can never get up from a fall. I rise like my idol, Maya. YOU HEARD?

But this film is special. Despite every obstacle, I’m committed to seeing it through – and I can proudly say: it’s coming. Stay tuned!

Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
Whew! I guess I’m humbled by this one- considering there’s a long list of people who saw me before I truly saw myself.

My teacher, Mr. Barzey, adored my short stories and pushed me to represent my district in a writing contest – and to no suppose – I won. I met our borough president and was rewarded money towards a scholarship.

Then there was my counselor through what’s now known as Harlem Children’s Zone. He noticed I had formed a group, written songs, and even presented me with the idea of creating a music video. Now that’s a memory that has stayed with me to this day.
Also my youth leader at church – she encouraged me to write a play for the young people when I was in sixth grade, and her sister helped me land an internship in a journalism program some years later at Long Island University.

But If I’m being honest, there are countless examples of people who supported me in ways I couldn’t yet understand. I often sought validation from those closest to me and overlooked the fact that outsiders were already recognizing my gift.

Many even called me “little Maya,” as an ode to Maya Angelou, and others regularly asked me to write for their music, brands, and projects.

So I always knew I had a gift for writing, but it was the encouragement and belief of those who saw me clearly that pushed me to take it more seriously. For that, I’m forever grateful. They’re all apart of the story. Thank you, guys! (Air hugs)

When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
Ha! (Chuckles) Long are the days…

I stopped hiding my pain when I realized that my vulnerability was my strength. The more transparent, authentic, and genuine I became, the more deeply I connected with people. Of course, not everyone earns that access since I trust my spirit to guide me away from those who don’t mean me well.

But I’ve learned that showing up as myself, fully and unapologetically, is powerful. It dissolves pain, and it unsettles people who feel the need to copy or perform just to be seen. For me, authenticity has always been my stanza.

And If I could step into my past and say one kind thing to my younger self, it would begin with a hug – a real, powerful, loving, forgiving, and gentle hug. Because she carried so much.

I’d tell her, “You didn’t imagine it. It was hard not feeling seen, heard, or understood, but none of that makes you any less special. You deserved a stage. You deserved your moment. Your gift should have been nurtured and supported. It is alive inside you. Don’t shrink, don’t doubt, and don’t wait for permission. One day, you’ll stand on a stage built from everything they said you couldn’t do – and you’ll realize you were worthy all along. Your gift matters. Your words matter. And even though you couldn’t live them out fully then, you will one day. Hold on, because the woman you’ll grow into will honor every part of you that was overlooked.
You are more powerful than you know.”

And then I’d remind her that her older self will make her proud – that every dream she thought she lost, every time she felt unseen, will be redeemed. Her gift will not only survive, but thrive. And all the pain will become power.

Sheesh! I need a moment like Amber Riley’s track. Deep stuff! (Wipes tear)

Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
Unfortunately, I work in an industry that often “plays the game.”
People smile, they laugh, they network – but you’re rarely welcomed into the circles, conversations, or movements that matter. There’s constant gatekeeping.

Too often, the same communities that are used to build an idea are the ones excluded when it’s time to share information or extend opportunities. It’s become disturbingly normal for smaller companies to struggle to be seen, or worse, to have their ideas stolen and repackaged by those with more power.

The industry loves to talk about helping and “opening doors,” but the reality is, you’re usually left to figure it out alone, buddy.

And that’s why I’m committed to every part of my company, no matter how long it takes. My drive is to create and showcase stories through the lens of a Black woman–led independent film company.
That commitment is my anchor, and it will always be my biggest motivation.

I refuse to play the game – I’m here to change it by building something that doesn’t bow to gatekeepers – because my community deserves more than crumbs.

Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. If you laid down your name, role, and possessions—what would remain?
If everything were stripped away – my name, title, possessions… what would remain is who I’ve always been at my core: a steady, loyal shoulder people can depend on, a leader who shows up and gets things done, and the anchor of the home I’ve built with my husband and children.

I’m often tapped to work alongside CEOs and executives because I naturally step into leadership; I welcome help, but I’m the kind of woman who makes a plan and follows through.

But the most precious, consistent circle that would remain is my family.
My husband, my children, and the life we share, because that love is my true north. I was born to create. I was born to write, to build, and to love fiercely.

My life and my work are not accidents – they’re the result of an inner calling I could never ignore. As a boss, a mother, a wife, and a storyteller, my own story carries power – and even without titles or things, that purpose would remain.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
The provided images are credited to CeCeLyric Productions

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.
Highlighter Series
What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?

Coffee? Workouts? Hitting the snooze button 14 times? Everyone has their morning ritual and we

Highlighter Series
What have been the defining wounds of your life—and how have you healed them?

Our deepest wounds often shape us as much as our greatest joys. The pain we

Highlighter Series
Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?

Culture, economic circumstances, family traditions, local customs and more can often influence us more than