Today we’d like to introduce you to Jamila Bell.
Hi Jamila, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
In 2012, I started my YouTube channel, and at the time it was just for fun. I was still in high school and it was a hobby for me and my brother to make silly videos in our spare time. We decided to start posting skits and our very first one went viral. We had absolutely no idea that our video would even be seen, let alone by millions. We decided to follow up per the request of our watchers with multiple sequels. “Black Parents vs. White Parents” became our legacy and we were only children. We always would introduce the videos as a “Ring A Bell” original, stemming from our last name Bell. As time went on I maintained consistency on my youtube channel and continued to grow a following of over 100,000 subscribers. As I entered college, it was difficult to maintain my channel while also working full time. After transferring to Georgia State University, I majored in Film & Video with a minor in Journalism. I knew no matter what, I wanted to be on television. I cultivated my purpose through my studies and experiences on campus. While in college, an old screenshot resurfaced from one of my old youtube videos and it became a meme. I was being reached out by everyone I knew for weeks about how a meme of me was circling the internet. I could not believe it! To this day, that meme is widely used so casually on social media. I graduated (officially).
In May of 2020, the same time that the pandemic was just beginning. I had an epiphany as I was searching for production jobs. Every position I sought out was either offering minimum wage or required 10+ years of experience. That was so frustrating and made me doubt my career choice. So I said, “F*ck it, I’m just going to start my own production company”. I knew a few friends who had similar goals, and I applied for a trademark on my birthday, May 30, 2020. I simply could not settle for any production job just to get my foot in the door and wait years to put out my projects. I had already been writing a script with the help of my friend and partner Dwight, and that pushed us to finish the script. After delivering my first child in April of 2021, my social media following blew up which has allowed me a new avenue of making money. I have the privilege of being a full-time content creator and social media manager. That is what pays the bills, but the flexibility also allows me time to devote to my craft. Now I am beyond excited to be in pre-production for our first project which will be a web series. In January, we launched our crowdfunding campaign to help raise money to fund the project. This production company is a chance for me to bring my stories to life.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Ten years in the making… that is pretty clear that nothing about this journey has been smooth. I have had quite a few viral moments since 2012 and yet they just were not quite enough to make me “pop”. That alone can be frustrating when you see others who have done less get more. College was a struggle in itself, as it took me away from creativity. Self-sabotage is a silent evil that I have had to battle with. The constant self-doubt about whether or not this is the right path is debilitating at times. But one thing I know, this is exactly what I am supposed to be doing. Starting a production company in the middle of a pandemic was pretty wild, especially considering I had no money. But it was more than just a business plan for me. A big struggle I’m sure a lot of folks can understand is the lack of support. That is enough to make you second guess yourself and wonder what the point is. You put yourself out there, and it has to be the most vulnerable and humbling experience and you are at the mercy of others.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
This is a difficult question because I never want to force myself to niche down. So to simplify it, I am a creator. I am most known for my comedic skits, however, I am more than that. My concentration in school was race & representation. I have created a lane for myself to discuss racial and social issues on my social platforms. I am always looking to learn more and to teach given the opportunity. As a creator, I want to center the voices of marginalized groups. In the production company, I take on any and all roles: writer, director, producer, actor. I am most proud of trademarking my name. It made it real for me and gave me purpose. What sets me apart from others is my authenticity. I could never do anything for the show. I don’t hop on every trend, I don’t steal content, I do my best to stay original and to be authentic with what I create. I am not worried about timeliness as it relates to pop culture references. I create content based on relatability. I have distinct humor that resonates with the black community because of the specific references I make.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
As a DIY queen, I am absolutely in love with Canva. I use it for literally everything, especially flyers and infographics. Other than canva as a tool for work, I keep it simple and I maintain a calendar to help me stay organized. I am always immersing myself in film & television because I consider myself a student of art and I am always learning.
Pricing:
- Crowd funding campaign with Go Fund Me
Contact Info:
- Email: book.ringabellproductions@gmail.com
- Website: https://ringabellproductions.studio/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ringabell.productions/
- https://www.instagram.com/_iamjamila/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JamilaBell/featured
- Other: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-raise-money-for-black-creators?utm_source=customer&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_campaign=p_cf+share-flow-1
