Today we’d like to introduce you to Benton Williams.
Hi Benton, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Thank you so much for reaching out! I’m a high school student from Cartersville, Georgia, who loves to create. I have been exploring my passions in photography and digital content production for the past several years and using my experience as a digital native to help local businesses cultivate an online presence through social media strategy and website design.
In the spring of 2020, as a 15-year-old amidst the coronavirus pandemic, I began working as the Director of Digital Media for the Cartersville Farmers Market amidst its revitalization. I had no practical experience in social media management, but, suddenly finding myself with a lot of time on my hands, I devoted myself to learning as much as I could about photography and social media strategy—two of my biggest interests.
Now, with a couple more years of experience under my belt, I am not only working with the Farmers Market, but also at my high school, North Cobb Christian School, as the Marketing Intern and Brand Strategist, at Noble and Main Coffee Co. where I am currently transitioning into the expanded role of both Barista and Social Media Strategist.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
I’m very lucky to have a network of creatives and professionals that have helped me navigate many challenges. I would say one of my biggest obstacles at this early point in my professional career is the discrimination because of my age. I’ve experienced everything from the appending of the phrase “for your age” to the end of any given compliment to the more direct, “Do you know the farmers market has a literal child in charge of their marketing?”
As an introverted person for most of my early life, growing my confidence and improving my communication skills did not come easy. However, I realized early on that those skills would be vital to becoming a respected figure in my community.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
In my two Market seasons leading our social media, photography, and web design, I have taken our Instagram account from 700 followers to over 3500—increasing our engagement by over 426%—and our Facebook page from 2500 followers to around 8000. Our Market’s total revenue from my two combined years in the position totaled over $1,000,000, surpassing the income from the first year of the Market’s revitalization in 2019 by over 766%.
My experience in content development from the Farmers’ Market led to my increased involvement with the production and marketing teams at my high school, North Cobb Christian School in Kennesaw, during the hybrid school year of 2020–2021. In mid-2021, I accepted a position as the Marketing Intern, where I have been blessed with the opportunity to hone my skills in copywriting, content creation, and defining brand identity.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
I am so grateful to the people and organizations that have given me the professional opportunities, advice, and guidance to succeed while still in the “Growing up” chapter of my life. It’s not lost on me how unique my position is, and I would not be here without these many remarkable individuals.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://bntn.io
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/heyimbenton
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/heyimbenton
Image Credits
Personal Photo — Chris Henderson, @chrishendersonphoto Photo of Benton holding bags — Silvia Saey, @good.tidings
