Today we’d like to introduce you to Joya Gresham
Hi Joya, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My name is Joya Monique Gresham, I was born and raised in Fremont, OH a small town where everybody knows everyone. It’s not expected for a lot of people to “make it.” Ever since I was a child, I made it my mission to prove everybody wrong. I’ve always loved journalism, media, and the entertainment industry. When I was young, and in my teenage years, my family would often have fashion shows/ plays at local churches or our town theatre.
However, growing up just like anyone else I faced challenges that pushed me to where I am today. Not all parts of my story are glitter and gold.
After the 3rd grade, it was decided that I transfer from public school and go to a private school, I went to a catholic school called St. Anns and was the only black girl in the entire school. Of course, with that being said, there was always the teasing/bullying and isolation. I had to learn to stand on my own and build confidence in doing so. I had very few friends at that school, but the ones I did make I’m still friends with to this day. I soon became the most “matter-of-fact” child that you would ever meet.
Despite my few friends at St. Ann, I begged my parents to go back to public school during my middle and high school years.
When I went back, I developed a love for my school’s choir, flag core and the school paper called “The Chatter” in which I was part of the writing staff. After graduation, I interned for the city’s paper that summer and started taking journalism classes. During this time, I was approached by a Naval recruiter who said I could travel and write. He convinced me to join the Navy, and I left for the military. The rest was history. I have traveled all over the world and have met some incredible people who have helped shape my career thus far.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
No. It has not been a smooth road. Health has most definitely been a challenge, both physically and mentally. I’m autoimmune and can become quite ill at times. I take bi-weekly injections to stay as active as possible. My body is constantly fighting itself from the inside with inflammation from my joints to my skin. There was a time when I was bed-bound and living back with my parents for almost 3 years. It was a rough road for sure.
As far as mentally, I’m an MST survivor (military sexual trauma). Also, a survivor of clergy abuse as well. Those are traumatic experiences and unfortunately, many people have gone through those circumstances. I try to make it a point to continue with therapy and stay as close to God as possible.
I’m also becoming more vocal with the issue, and letting people know that they always have resources and people who care.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Well, I’m creative at heart, so I wear many hats. I have my own talent/booking agency (J.M. Management) where I book celebrities for appearances, speaking engagements, or podcasts.
I’m also working on my new brand, “Pretty&Pitching” which is a company that pitches ideas to high-end clientele for a return investment. (Think Shark Tank, only prettier).
In 2025 I will be launching my cookie company dedicated to my grandmother’s recipe, called “Coras Cookies”, and lastly, I’m still working behind the scenes in producing several mini-doc series and autobiographies.
Often times I have a lot on my plate, but what sets me apart from others is the resilience to keep going.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
My advice for people just starting is to find a team early in your journey, that will stick with you and have the same passion for whatever you are doing. I wish I knew that it is perfectly fine to be my authentic self. People will gravitate to authenticity over pretense anyway. Be yourself even if you have to stand alone for a while. You will always attract your tribe naturally.
Pricing:
- $100 for consultation
- $350 for speaking engagements
- $500 for a “Pretty&Pitching” Pitch
Image Credits
LooksbyLunden
