Today we’d like to introduce you to Ebony Payne.
Ebony, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Originally, I’m from Baltimore Maryland. After participating in a production at Center Stage, I decided acting was what I wanted to do full time. I relocated to Atlanta a few years ago in effort to pursue new opportunities. I packed whatever could fit in my car and drove to Atlanta and have been here ever since. Luckily, I was fortunate enough to be a part of several productions and travel/tour for three years.
I took a break from entertainment in hopes of expanding on my craft by going to school. I worked different jobs to provide consistent income. Somewhere along the way I lost purpose behind my work and found myself unfulfilled. I knew I wanted to help people, challenge myself both mentally and physically, but still have the flexibility to explore other passions. That’s when I came across a posting for a Firefighter position. I remember thinking, why not? I knew nothing about what the life of a firefighter entailed but I became open to the idea of other routes to take in order to achieve the same goal. I realized through this profession, I could still inspire and impact society positively, just as I hoped to do with acting. In addition, I volunteer with many charities and continue to use my skills/gifts to bring awareness to prevalent issues. It has been an extremely long and difficult journey but very rewarding.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It has not been an easy road. I lacked insight and experience going in. Not to mention my physical makeup didn’t help to give me an advantage. I didn’t have a lot of support either. Everyone had their opinions on why I shouldn’t or couldn’t do it. I was met with discouragement prior to and throughout the process. However, what people can’t see is your heart. In that, they underestimate how resilient you can be and make the mistake of misjudging you and your capabilities based off of their fear.
We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
I’m a Firefighter/Advanced Emergency Medical Technician. I respond to emergencies to provide care or rescue people/animals. Whether it be a medical call, fire, a car accident, cardiac arrest, or delivering a baby, all of which I have done in my short time with the department, any potential danger you can imagine, we will be the first to show up. I am learning a new skill, water rescue, at my current station. I truly enjoy what I do because you never know what the day may bring. As a department, we are big on training and educating the public on safety precautions to take as a preventative measure. I’m continuing to learn and have a great group of colleagues to lead the way.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I must say that my luck is hard work and perseverance as it always helps to light the path to success.
Contact Info:
- Website: EbonyPayne.com
- Phone: 404)390-0061
- Email: Anumediagroup@gmail.com
- Instagram: Msmarylandmonroe
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