Today we’d like to introduce you to Rebel Mas (Shani Franks).
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I got my start three years ago and haven’t looked back. The Rebel Mas journey began while I was coordinating fashion shows in Atlanta, GA. A good friend of mine noticed my passion for Caribbean carnival costumes and the culture; she made the suggestion to start a blog with a specific focus on carnival. I took her advice and created the blog on the WordPress platform and blossomed from there.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It certainly has not been a smooth road. I have experienced both professional and personal setbacks that could have derailed Rebel Mas completely. When I started this endeavor I never dreamed of all the sacrifices that came along my journalism quest. The sleepless nights, business concerns, the lack of support, and even questioning if I’m good enough to enter the cultural arena of journalism are just a few things I’ve experienced along the way. This journey has been quite challenging because it has and continues to test my will each and every day. I have witnessed my own growth through overcoming heartbreaks, acknowledging and accepting constructive criticism, while remembering to go back to the drawing board with the lessons I’ve learned in order to make necessary improvements.
RebelMas Carnival Journalist – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Rebel Mas is a platform that focuses on the Caribbean carnival culture. I travel domestically and internationally chronicling experiences through photos, videos, and written accounts of what the “Mas” experience is like. I am known as “The Pretty Mas Ambassador” the go to person for all things relevant to a complete “masquerader” experience. I am most proud of having come from working behind the scenes within the fashion industry and stepping into the forefront truly living out my passion of culture and writing. What sets me apart from my peers is the nature of my work and the collaborative efforts with Caribbean Life TV Global. CLTV has contributed to the Rebel Mas brand; allowing it to flourish and evolve into its own media haven. I discuss the carnival history, the present day celebrations, interview veteran/emerging Soca artists, and every Wednesday I make it a point to spotlight dynamic #Women2Follow that are making strides as entrepreneurs.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success is defined by the people I am able to connect with while working towards my own personal goals. Success is when a complete stranger approaches me and shares that the reason they decided to participate in a carnival or attend a Soca/Reggae concert after viewing one of my posts. Having the opportunity to share a portion of my story on the Voyage platform proves I am on the right path and that success is truly what you make of it.
Contact Info:
- Email: RebelMasCarnivalBlog@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_rebelmas_/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MasRebel617/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/rebelmas85
Image Credit:
Carnivalluxe, Caribbean Life TV Global, and Rebel Mas
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