Today we’d like to introduce you to Judith Saucedo.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Hi! I’m a South Atlanta native. I graduated from Georgia State University in May 2018 with a degree in Speech Communication and a minor in Communication Sciences and Disorders.
A couple of months before graduation, I underwent a lot of changes in my immediate family that were very scary. In this mist of those new family transitions, a very close relative of mine passed away unexpectedly after a tragic car accident. One week after her passing, I put on my cap and gown to walk across the stage with no game plan, no idea of what was up next, and a broken heart looking for hope.
Life was a lot more different than I ever envisioned it would be after graduation. I was trying to figure out what to do with my life and how I was going to manage to survive, both financially and mentally.
I put a ridiculous amount of pressure on myself to find a corporate job just so I could put my very expensive degree to work. But let me tell you… after actually starting my corporate job, I realized that it wasn’t the right fit for me. Coming to terms with that was terrifying because I thought I was supposed to enjoy the new chapter I was embarking. It was the exact opposite.
During my 90-day work probation, I made the bold decision to leave my corporate job and find what was right for me. I was scared out of my mind but knew that it’s what I had to do. I wanted to take a chance on myself and make my goals and dreams come true, as cheesy as that may sound.
In the midst of all that chaos, I still managed to find time to do the things that I loved, such as songwriting, blogging, and creating content. After resigning, I fully dedicated my time to pursue those passions. I began contracting as a vocalist in several churches within the greater Atlanta area, which later led to many musical opportunities for my career. In May 2019, I released my first single, Prewritten Prayer, which hit all digital platforms. The song was dedicated to my close relative that passed away exactly one year ago. Several weeks later, I auditioned for a corporate band in Atlanta, which has opened the door for me to sing at other events.
During this time, I also launched my website and youtube channel. This allowed me to further my passion for creating content and video editing. It became a gateway, which then led me to accept my current part-time position at Eastside Baptist Church in Marietta. There, I help build up their social media presence, video production, and direct video projects.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Definitely not!
It was such a scary decision leaving what was safe for something that wasn’t guaranteed, but I knew I had to take that leap of faith. I had to believe in myself and take a chance on creating the life I knew I wanted.
My advice is to go for it! Whatever dream is scarring you, whatever causes your heart to skip a beat… go for it! Take a chance on yourself and believe that you will accomplish what you put your mind to.
Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
For a couple of years now, I’ve had the chance of working as a freelance model in Atlanta. I’ve been able to work alongside various talented photographers and create amazing content.
I’ve also been known for my luck at thrift stores. My YouTube channel consists of me showcasing some of my unique finds and curating content around that.
I would say one of the things that sets me apart is my love of creating content that is aesthetically pleasing but also empowering and motivating. I’ve taken the challenge of being transparent in some of my struggles to let people know that it’s so much more than a 2-dimensional screen. I’m a whole person who has flaws, and a quirky laugh, and victories and battles. I try to do my best of not only sharing the good but also the ugly. In this, I have loved creating a relational aspect of my social media presence.
Finding a mentor and building a network are often cited in studies as a major factor impacting one’s success. Do you have any advice or lessons to share regarding finding a mentor or networking in general?
You just never know who you will meet, and how that person can help change your life. One thing that has helped me a lot is being receptive when meeting new people. I don’t shut down and think, oh they don’t have anything to offer. Rather, I build on relationships and see where they can go. Not only is it good for my soul but you really just never know who you will meet.
Contact Info:
- Website: judithsaucedo.blog
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @judisauce
- Other: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChlR-KUVo8JP7VAxWAp5n4w?view_as=subscriber
Image Credit:
Chris House, Jaelin, Phi Huynh
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