Conversations with the Inspiring Charlie Billingsley

Today we’d like to introduce you to Charlie Billingsley.

So, before we jump into specific questions about what you do, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I’ve been creating for as long as I can remember! In high school, I took photography and use to develop photos in the darkroom, which I definitely need again! I also use to work at Michaels after school and would spend all my checks to buy craft stuff from the store, to paint and stencil the walls in my room. Back then, being a “creative” wasn’t a thing at all, if anything it was a hobby. College was the only thing drilled in our heads, fast forward to now, we are breaking ceilings, coloring outside of the lines, fueling our passions and getting paid for it. AND that’s ok.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Entrepreneurship is HARD. It is not for the faint of heart, especially if your someone who is like me and wants to do and create all the things that come to mind! And want to succeed at them all, all at once. But the reality of it is, you will fail, it’s up to you to stay dedicated and consistent because you will also succeed, and it will be the most rewarding experience ever.

For other women on this journey or just starting. The hardest part is just starting, so even if you don’t have to altogether, even if you don’t feel ready, take the leap and keep going, ignore the noise and doubts of others and especially the ones in your own head. You got this.

What do you do, what do you specialize in, what are you known for, etc. What are you most proud of? What sets you apart from others?
What sets me apart from others is that when I wanna do something I just do it, that’s it I don’t think about the equipment I don’t have, or the money or what people will think and I do not give up, I had a really tough year and I used my art to push through, I knew that someone out there is watching and waiting to see what Charlie will do next. People need your gift.

For good reason, society often focuses more on the problems rather than the opportunities that exist, because the problems need to be solved. However, we’d probably also benefit from looking for and recognizing the opportunities that women are better positioned to capitalize on. Have you discovered such opportunities?
Women can do anything. YOU can do anything you freaking want. That’s it, that’s all, don’t let the challenges or the negativity of society make you feel like you can’t. Break the norms, pull up a seat at every table or make your own!

Contact Info:

• Website: Iamcharlieb.com
• Email: photosbycharlieb@gmail.com
• Instagram: Charliebcreates, blackcreativesweekend, takecareblackgirl ,themuseumforblackgirls
• Facebook: Photos by CharlieB, Black Creatives Weekend

Image Credit:
@jessicachristiephoto (first photo)
@charliebcreates

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