Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Payne.
Jessica, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
The beauty is my story is still being written. However, I’d be remiss if I didn’t say that it hasn’t always been an eventful one, to say the least. My story commenced in Mobile, AL, where I was born and raised – a small part known as Theodore, to be exact. It was in elementary school that I discovered my gift of gab. It was after submitting a creative short story (and receiving placement) and winning first place in the oratorical contest with the local Boys and Girls club that propelled my active pursuit in the field of communications. It was participating in drama and chorus in middle school that began to build my confidence and stage presence. It was the TV production class I took in high school, the Mardi Gras court that served as the Queen on, and the local highly esteemed organization that I was selected to be apart of – that showed me that I could flourish in simply being true to myself.
Therefore, after completing my academic career at the blissful young tenderoni age and stage of my life, I decided that it was time to expand and grow not only as a creative but an individual as well. I decided to relocate. As the graces of the Peach state welcomed me, the opportunities began to arrive as well. It was in the art of networking that I obtained opportunities that ranged from features in high-profile video shoots to working with production on sets of major shows and networks. However, writing is where my heart is and I have been so blessed to write for prominent publications, as well as obtaining published work. From my tender adolescence, the gift of speaking and writing was evident and undeniable. I’ve always possessed a love for creative writing and public speaking, and I truly believed that I was gifted with imperative words and thoughts that needed to be shared.
I am incredibly blessed and humbled to say that I have not only become acquainted with my passion but throughout this journey – especially moving away from home solo – I must say that through my various occurrences on my journey, I have discovered myself. I stand firm in using my words and my experiences to encourage people to genuinely and proudly stay and stand in their truth. I seek to uplift and encourage the community and the culture with my words. As I continue to curate my story, I realize everything that I have experienced has prepared me for who I need to be. I’ve grown to appreciate notoriety over fame, therefore I aspire to allow my work to speak for itself. I am beyond proud of myself and my circle that pours into me constantly. JP. & Company will be a major household Media company – that positively and authentically pours into our culture.
Great, 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?
Whew, struggles would be an understatement. The road for me hasn’t always been what would be considered a smooth one. However, I would have to say that what I thought were struggles were honestly and truly blessings and lessons for me. You see, the thing about growing is, as you progress and transition – so will the people and things around you. You acquire a new sense of reality. You obtain a higher and deeper level of thinking. You grow as an individual. You gain new friendships and relationships – you also lose some along the way. You experience life and all that it entails – therefore leaving you to heal and cope. Anyone who has truly experienced the journey of self-discovery and growth knows that it won’t always be easy but it’s definitely all been worth it and as my mom always says, “count it all joy.”
Please tell us about JP & COMPANY.
I created JP. & Co as a Media and Creative based company that specializes in assisting other brands, businesses and organizations with written and creative content. Whether it’s Creative Directing a campaign shoot for a Nonprofit – or providing written Lifestyle and Entertainment news for a media publication, my goal has always been to join the league of creative Black Women who utilize their skills and platform to provide knowledge, insight or inspiration.
My name and company is most known for writing. I absolutely love serving as a Media Journalist for various events, individuals and occurrences because I am able to construct my words and perspective to paint a visual picture to the audience. A storyteller, if you will. I am most certainly proud and humbled to be recognized as a legit and trustworthy writer and member of the media. My genuine personality and undeniably prominent work have allowed me to build relationships with some of the most substantial and well-known publicists, artists, managers, etc. This is what I believe truly sets me apart. In a world of constant change, adversity (and now) uncertainty – it’s refreshing to know that you are engaging with a company or someone that remains inspirational and true to the brand’s message. I aspire to inspire and anyone and everyone who comes into contact with JP. & Company can attest.
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
My favorite childhood memory would have to be when my Parents and Grandparents would take me and my brother to Pensacola for the weekend – sometimes three weekends out of the month. We would stay in this really nice hotel, that seemed like a full-blown resort to us. We would swim in the pool, grill on the balcony and simply enjoy each other’s company. I will never forget those memories or how they made – and still make – I feel. Family is a huge part of me and of my life and those memories are filled with pure love and comfort.
Contact Info:
- Website: gojessiigo.com
- Email: lovejessp@gmail.com
Image Credit:
@NathanPearcy – Headshot
@gojessiigo – rest
Suggest a story: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
