Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley McDonald.
Hi Ashley, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Hi VoyageATL, it’s such a pleasure to be on this platform and share my story. I am Jamaican-born and raised. My family and I moved to Georgia to be closer to family and also for professional advancements. Ashley Eats and Bakes started through my love for food photography and want to try different cultural cuisines. Initially, I would share my food pictures on my personal account but when I realized I was sharing more pictures of foods that I tried or baked as opposed to myself, I decided to create an Instagram page dedicated to my food spot findings and also new pastries and desserts that I made myself hence the name Ashley Eats and Bakes. Since then, I have been blessed to have brand collaborations and amazing food adventures locally, regionally, and internationally.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It’s been a relatively smooth road. Of course, the pressures of social media can become overwhelming at times but my page is a creative outlet for me. I find it therapeutic to create content. If you look in my bio it says “A food journal” because it’s really a collection of places that I treasure and recipes that I love that I’m sharing with the wider community. It’s also a hub for people to get a POV of these restaurants and events that I showcase.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Apart from my food blog, I am also a graduate student in a Master’s program for Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Mental health advocacy and representation play a huge role in why I have decided to pursue this career path. I think society is heading in the right direction with considerations and awareness of mental health, however, there is still a lot that needs to be done in this field, especially with legislatures and laws. Prior to pursuing my degree, I was also a Behavioral Therapist for kids with Autism Spectrum Disorder. That career path was one of the most fulfilling jobs I have ever had as I helped so many children and families to reach for the stars and meet or exceed their potential. Something that I think sets me apart from the rest is how intentional I am in everything that I do. I think intentionality and empathy can go along way.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
My advice is to not be afraid to put yourself out there. The most someone can say is “No” and you just accept that and move on to the next available opportunity. You have to remember that what’s for you will never pass you by. That’s definitely worked for me. When I moved to Georgia, I had no friends here. In fact, all my friends are scattered across the Western Hemisphere. But I festered up the courage to put myself out there and now I have communities of persons that I appreciate and i’m so thankful for that.
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