Today we’d like to introduce you to Lauryn Bass.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My background is Broadcast Journalism. Hampton University helped give me opportunities to learn more about what kind of storyteller I could be. I’ve been striving to learn how to be proficient at them all, as people receive content differently.
Following graduation, I went straight into a top 50 market at WTKR News 3 in Norfolk, VA, where I spent a year telling news stories and also working at the lifestyle show Coast Live as a correspondent.
Since my contract ended in June, I returned home to Atlanta, where I became the Executive Assistant for Media Girls Network with notable PR campaigns: “Discover Def Jam” with LG Malique, Media Girls On Tour: Alabama, Zaytoven Beats “Sunday Funday Bootcamp” and SiriusXM & Pandora’s Playback featuring Moneybagg Yo.
I also recently launched the expansion of my podcast brand into a larger Health & Wellness business called Blooming & Buzzing Co. Through virtual services, blogs, or podcast episodes, I provide Mental Health #SelfCare tips & resources for personal development.
I’ve been paving a way for myself in multiple avenues of Journalism, Communications, and Marketing. But I never thought I would see the world through the lense I have today. God has been so good, and so has my village.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
So, moving to Atlanta was not the easiest rollercoaster; I would give it a level 5! There are so many talented individuals here, so the market is so saturated.
Also, I had to start over in connections. I’m so thankful to have friends in NABJ, iHeart, Media Girls Network, DaBuketList, or even entrepreneurs who are making a way and thinking of me.
It’s also been hard to grind. I’ve been working multiple jobs at a time every day of the week. No off days. Trying to adult—in all the ways that anyone can interpret this—with family, interpersonal, socially, professionally, and financially.
That was a slap in the face that no one could have prepared me for. I believe that I don’t get as much sleep as I used to and I LOVE to sleep, haha. But I know it’s all for a purpose.
Side note: I used to brand myself with ginger—red colored hair for YEARS. That was a part of my brand. I dyed my hair black once I came home—it’s been since I was 16… This has been such a transition for me to market my work ethic, the content of my character, and my true talent without thinking of my hair as a focal point. It’s been such a fun journey to fall in love with my natural beauty.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar with what you do, what can you tell them about what you do?
It’s so funny you all are following up with me. From our last interview, I was working somewhere else! But now, I am happy to announce that I am the newest Contributing Writer for iOne Digital’s “BOSSIP.” (Bossip.com)
I will be adding to their ‘Bolitics’ section and covering political stories that directly affect marginalized communities. That is in alignment with the work I’ve been doing to amplify Black and Brown voices. I believe in uplifting the underdog. I pride myself in allowing people to share their voices—all people need is a platform.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Firstly God. He never gave up on me, even when things looked rough or my faith became shaky.
My family are my rocks. They see sides of me that others don’t and love every crevice. They are the reason I wanted to return home, and they have been my biggest supporters.
My friends keep me in high spirits. Reading my stories and giving me feedback… That means a lot for someone to stop during their busy day and check out my work. I love y’all. (p.s. #LLJ)
My mentors. Dean Julia Wilson. Dr. Ford. Dani Canada. Those three journalism professionals continue to pour into me. My Hampton family runs deep. From check-ins to sponsorship to recommendation letters. These three see my vision. I have to give me credit. Honorable mention: my journalism big sister, Leslie Delasbour. She gave me my start in this industry—saw something in me. I love her for that.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://blinq.me/oHrTQo2YXnnhv7jeENBq
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/itslaurynbass
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurynbass?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
- Twitter: @laurynbasstv
Image Credits
Lauryn Bass
