Meet LaKeisha Fleming of Vision 2:2 Productions

Today we’d like to introduce you to LaKeisha Fleming.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I’ve always been driven. I went to college to study journalism and came out wanting to conquer the world. I had my sights set on being the next Katie Couric or Oprah Winfrey. I moved to Atlanta to begin my career working for CNN. It was a time of tremendous learning and growth. I entered CNN as a Video Journalist, and when I left, I was working as a writer and producer. I put in the long hours, paying my dues, expecting it to yield a return.

I then spent a few years working for a non-profit organization. In addition to handling a variety of administrative duties, I worked as a writer and editor. I was still yearning for something more. Desires were still there to be in front of the camera, as well as write and produce on a greater scale. I didn’t exactly want to go back to news, but I knew I wanted to do something in that arena. I had no idea I was aligning myself for the opportunity that would incorporate all of my skills, challenge me in ways I hadn’t known, and ultimately propel me to my destiny.

I stopped working for the non-profit when my first son was born. I stayed home with him for several months. I’d started to have a greater interest in filmmaking. I’d been on one independent film set years ago for a brief time, so I didn’t have a lot of knowledge. I saw the Atlanta Film Festival was recruiting volunteers, and I decided to sign up. I thought it could be fun, and I might learn something.

As I was placed with volunteer assignments, I remember a panel with a producer for the movie, “Pastor Brown.” I’d read a few details about the movie, and knew I wanted to see if I could get on board with the crew. I spoke with the producer, who said they had no paid positions, but I could come out and volunteer. I was ecstatic! I could work on set!

I showed up bright and early the next day, to her surprise. Like I said, I’ve always been driven. I worked like my life depended upon it. In fact, I like to say I paid them to let me work as a PA. My husband already worked outside the home on a daily basis, so I had to pay for childcare for my son, to volunteer on this film set. And I did it. Without hesitation. A few things happened during this experience: I made some embarrassing mistakes – and I mean some doozies, but that’s for another day; I gained a wealth of knowledge about filmmaking; I made some valuable contacts, and I fell in love. I gave my heart to being on set and loved every minute of it. The long hours, standing on my feet, “flying in” waters, setting up crafty, whatever it took. It was amazing and I was hooked. Good thing, because I received the opportunity of a lifetime that would make being on set my second home.

While working for free, I’d been spotted by a producer at Tyler Perry Studios. She liked my hustle. She ultimately brought me on board to work for Tyler Perry’s House of Payne, followed by Meet the Browns, and several movies. That experience was exhilarating. Tyler Perry is a visionary. I loved learning on set every day. I loved, I mean loved, my job. Who can say that? Trash sweeps? Bring them on! Late nights? I’m all for it. I had an absolute blast. I am so grateful to the team there and was abundantly blessed. Then a dream came true for me … I worked as a writer for Tyler Perry Studios, writing scripts for a couple of his television shows. I blossomed in my gift as a writer.

My career continues to flourish. I have produced, directed and written a number of projects, for myself and others. I am also a regular writer for magazines, blogs, website content, press releases and even corporate clients. TV and Film projects are still my passion. The thrill of starting up a new project, having that first meeting, vetting ideas and bringing the story to life, enthralls me. It’s in my blood. I love it. I feel so blessed to be in the Atlanta area, at this moment, with so many opportunities for content creation.

Right now I am working on a couple of film and television projects, as well as writing a book. It’s a fascinating experience.

I’ve learned that anything is possible!

Has it been a smooth road?
A smooth road? I literally laughed out loud. Any good storyteller knows that fuel for your projects is often rooted in reality. And I’ve had plenty of reality to provide material for years to come.

My greatest obstacles have been in the arena of my family. Just as I go hard for my career, I go even harder for my family. My husband and my two sons are my worlds. As much as I adored being on set and the long hours required, it became increasingly difficult to give my family the time and attention it needed. I hated to step back from working on set on a daily basis, but it was the best decision for us at the time.

I also dealt with a traumatic loss. I’ve suffered three miscarriages. I can only describe that pain as crippling, sometimes suffocating. It was a pain I would never want anyone to endure. However, I use that pain as fuel to write, to communicate, and to respond in a way that touches others. It has given an authentic and transparent dimension to my writing and storytelling. I am using that pain to help, encourage and ultimately motivate others. You can make it through. And you’re not alone.

So, as you know, we’re impressed with Vision 2:2 Productions – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
Vision 2:2 Productions LLC gets its name from Habakkuk 2:2 in the Bible. It says, in part, “write the vision and make it plain.” With each script that I write, each article that I publish, and each movie that I produce, my goal is to take an idea, a vision, a dream, and communicate it in a way that moves you. I want anything I do to evoke a feeling in you – whether it’s laughter, empathy, compassion, anger or encouragement. And I do it by pouring my energy and my soul into each project. People are touched by what’s real. Transparency, authenticity – they’re real. And that’s the Vision 2:2 difference. I create what’s real. And you feel that.

My company provides multi-media content for a variety of platforms. We offer scriptwriting services for television and film, production and content creation services, and producer and director services. We also create written content for magazines, press releases, blogs, websites, newspapers and more.

We offer dynamic and informative workshops and classes.

I am an engaging motivational speaker and would love the opportunity to speak to your group.

Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
What I like best about Atlanta is the sheer volume of possibilities. Whether I’m looking for a fun date night with my husband, a place to hang out with my girlfriends, or entertaining activities for the kids, this city has it! It’s rich in culture and history and provides incredible learning experiences for visitors and residents alike. What do I like least? The traffic. Hands down. Driving is one of my least favorite things to do.

How do you, personally, define success? What’s your criteria, the markers you’re looking out for, etc?
My definition of success has changed so much since I started in this business. I used to think if I could just land this anchor job, or just be a part of this production, or write for this show; then I’d achieved success. Then I started thinking, well, if enough people know my work, and recognize me, and the money comes streaming in, then I’ve made it.

I think all of those things can be symptomatic of success, but still elude the true definition. For me, success is being focused on actively pursuing my mission and vision from God, in whatever season I am in. So right now, my season includes taking meetings, writing scripts, publishing articles and shooting movies. It also includes soccer games, homeschooling, chess practice, supporting my husband, and rich relationships with family and friends. I am successful because I have learned to manage my time, to give myself grace, and to enjoy what I have and who I am. Do I want more? Sure. Who doesn’t? But am I making efforts to be thankful for where I am and able to enjoy the success of it? You better believe it.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.lakeishafleming.com
• Phone: (470) 499-1461
• Email: info@vision22productions.com
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Vision22Productions/
• Twitter: @lakeishafleming

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