In 2010 I graduated from university with a degree in Media Studies. As part of my degree one of the modules included a 10,000 word dissertation based on a media related topic. After I got over the shock of having to write a 10,000 word essay I thought a lot about what exactly I could write about. It was then I realised I needed to base my work on something I was passionate about and interested in. The result was a dissertation on the representation of Black women in Hip Hop videos. Doing intense research and analysis gave me a deeper insight into how Black women were portrayed in both the media and society. It also provided me with additional knowledge into the history of our stereotypes and misrepresentations. I realised that this was where my passion was so I eventually created a Tumblr blog based on anything and everything from a Black woman’s perspective. Topics were mainly media related, social issues, and beauty and fashion articles. My blog was really successful and gained over 800 followers within a few months; this led me on to create an official website originally titled NubianEmpress.com.My site has a steady following and I utilise Social Media to promote my posts and content. I’ve found that blogging networks are very useful in growing you’re following and also grasping information and techniques from fellow bloggers. Recently I have rebranded my site and it is now called nubianjae.com (which is also the name I use on my Social Media pages). I wanted to make my site more personal so I chose to remove the Empress and replace it with the first letter of my name. Following on from this in 2016 I decided that I wanted to make my brand into a full blown business, so I am hoping to incorporate an online T-shirt line focussing on promoting Black beauty, and also motivating young Black women. The line is currently still in the planning process but I do hope to release it within the next couple of months.
Lastly, as I will be selling via Social Media and have been using Social Media largely to grow my following, I aim to share all the knowledge I have gained and utilised to begin a Social Media Consultancy for small businesses. Venturing into entrepreneurship is scary to say the least and I do admit that I have had many off days and have allowed procrastination and doubt to get in the way on many occasions. However, working for a Startup Loans Company has enabled me to communicate with fellow entrepreneurs and realise that owning my business is definitely achievable all it takes is hard work, persistence, and drive. Obstacles will surely get in the way but it is up to me to overcome them and remember the ultimate goal I want to reach.
About Jasmine
I’m Jasmine a 28 year old female from London. Although I was born and bred in North London, my roots stem from the heart of West Africa, Ghana. During my spare time I enjoy writing, listening to music and reading motivational books. My outdoor hobbies include bike riding and drinking cheeky cocktails on nights out with friends. I have a 5 year old who definitely keeps me active and is my sole motivation. I’m currently juggling motherhood with work, studies, and my budding entrepreneurship and I’m having a blast to say the least. I definitely think that 2016 is MY year!.