Daily Inspiration: Meet Glory Iluyomade

Today we’d like to introduce you to Glory Iluyomade.

Glory, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I started in media and entertainment coming out of college. I was on my way, walking into dollar tree, in a bonnet and sweats. It was the perfect epitome of the popular rap line by Drake “sweatpants, chilling with no makeup on..” I saw a local radio van and I told myself, “this is the moment, walk up and introduce yourself.” I handed my card to the two radio reps, and six months later, I got a call. Working in radio for three years up until 2018, I gained so much insight on business practices, self-sufficiency, but most importantly I developed my love for the entertainment/media lifestyle. After managing artists, booking local and major talent, and hosting/performing at various clubs, it was time to step out on my own, and at that time, I had a hard reality of the radio station I worked at, at the time letting people go, including me. I’ve always had an ear but I also have an eye. After going through transition and stuck in the routine of work, non-profit management, and my personal life, I wanted something new. So I went on Amazon in June of 2020 & bought my first camera… it’s been love ever since and I’m here, talking with Voyage Atl.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It’s never been easy. But whatever is worth it, you have to work for. 2017. The first year in radio, I lost my father. Saw him lying on the floor right after he had witnessed me graduate the year before. It haunts me till this day. As a daddy’s girl I truly lost half of me. As anyone may know dealing with a loss is definitely a long term battle and countless emotional roller coaster but if you want to LIVE, you have to find new life. Managing the stress of a loss and stressful relationship at the time, I was constantly putting my energy and still do at times, in work. Gaining weight and not working on myself cost me but at the same time, it fueled me in the most unhealthy, beneficial way…

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I think the most important thing, in clientele service, is familiarity. Born and raised in Raleigh North Carolina, I enjoy watching the city grow and also develop scenic places for photos to come alive. I strive for my many brands to align, with that being said, I practice empowerment and love. I know that sometimes clients can be nervous while being in front of the camera, but as a non-profit founder of a woman organization, my goal is to create comfort and empowerment of self. I am the owner of WOMAN501c3, our mission is to empower, enrich, and encourage all minority women to be strong mentally, physically, and emotionally. WOMAN, The Non Profit Org we have three current college chapters, with two being active at UNCP & ECU. Along with a seasonal community garden.

Along with that role I’ve chosen to create a beauty line that caters towards women of color. Omo Authentic is influenced by my Nigerian culture which is why I specifically bring products from back home so that people of color can be in touch with the mother land, in style. Items like Ankara (African print) clutches and clothing. And lastly, I am the photographer over Chocolate Girl Photography, (as seen on Fox, Charlotte Bride, ABC, Voyage ATL, MagCloud Magazine, and more). What makes me different: my patience with people who aren’t as confident or experienced, and my attention to detail and editing pigment and melanin. I absolutely love making people look and feel beautiful, without having to break the bank. My mission is to push empowerment.

Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I love working with new artist and individuals who would like to work on their brand presence or more so their overall brand appeal. Whether it be by providing photography services, brand advice, or mentorship. I want to invest. So emailing chocolategirlcompany@gmail.com for mentorship. Donations/Collaboration for nonprofit: www.woman501c3.com (site down) www.Facebook.com/woman501c3 www.Instagram.com/woman501c3

Pricing:

• Shoots start at $250
• 1 on 1 Youth Mentoring starting at $100 a week

Contact Info:

• Email: Chocolategirlphotos@gmail.com
• Website: https://chocolategirlphotographydesign.mypixieset.com/
• Instagram: www.Instagram.com/itsgijane
• Facebook: www.Facebook.com/gloryiluyomade
• Other: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/glory-i/1436421880

Image Credits
Chocolate Girl Photography & Design