Victoria Jones
freelance writer
NEW YORK/ NEW JERSEY
Contact: victoria@veehelene.com
5 favorite musical artists of all time?
Miguel
Jhene Aiko
J. Cole
Childish Gambino
Ne-Yo
What inspires you?
Experiencing different cultures and lifestyles inspires my taste. I love antique looks and items that tell a story. I am intrigued by unique people, places, and things. That's what makes the world so vibrant. Seeing people comfortable in their own skin motivates me to express myself fearlessly.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Whew, so many things! If I had to narrow it down, I'd tell myself that I don't have anything to prove to anyone. I am enough. I would tell myself to speak up more and ask for help. Most importantly, I would tell myself to trust my intuition and have faith that everything will be okay.
What industry blogs/websites/podcasts do you enjoy?
Permission To Write: https://www.permissiontowrite.com
The Profile: https://theprofile.substack.com
Souls In Focus: @soulsinfocus (IG)
What do you think the future holds for people of color in creative industries?
I think we have a very bright future ahead of us. I love that so many of my friends are branching away from "The American Dream" to pursue their rightful purpose. I just hope we all learn from the mistakes of others by owning our own art, investing in each other, and not selling out.
“There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.”
What is your dream job?
Honestly, writing is my dream job. I want to be an author with several fictional series published. Soon, I want to tap into the documentary world. I see myself being a jack of many trades - a photographer, painter, interior designer, and perhaps a yoga teacher. I want my job to align with the things I am already naturally passionate about.
What skill(s) would you develop if you had more time?
I've been dabbling in photography and watercolor painting for about a year now. If I had more time, I'd definitely elevate those skills. I would also love to learn how to cook and bake more homemade meals and desserts.
What is the last thing you learned?
How Funyuns are made. Don't judge me.
What are you working on right now?
I recently launched my freelance writing business, so I'm working on building my portfolio and network.
If you could talk to your favorite creative for an hour, who would it be? Why?
My favorite creative is Rihanna. Not only would I love to turn up with her (lol), but I would also love to just sit and hear more about her creative journey and her creative process. I love that she has continued to transform repetitively over the course of her career, never putting herself in a box.
What advice would you give to creatives of color looking to pursue their passion full-time?
Before making the leap, do everything you can to not be stressed about finances. Save up to support yourself for a few months so you don't end up rushing your creative process.
Enjoy the journey. Make it your own. Learn everything you can. Don't be afraid to connect with other people in your field. Don't compare yourself with others. Don't let the idea of perfection paralyze you. Keep creating and trust that the money will come!
How do you keep your creative drip going?
I do everything with the intention of finding a creative takeaway. Every conversation I have, movie I watch, book I read, etc. leaves me with some sort of inspiration. I try to surround myself with creative people. Lastly, I create! If I'm stricken with writer's block, I pick up a paint brush. It's all about exercising those creative muscles constantly.
Contact: victoria@veehelene.com