We had the good fortune of connecting with Shalanda Wellington and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shalanda, how do you think about risk?
I see risk as a challenge or an obstacle needed to be faced in order to prepare myself for what’s to come. In my opinion, there is always a lesson behind every risk. For years, I told myself I would start creating content. However, every time I would begin my platform, I would talk myself out of it due to fear (False Evidence Appearing Real). Therefore, I was holding myself back. During the shutdown, I had a lot of time to reflect, and I realized time isn’t waiting on anyone and if I don’t start taking risks it will never get done. Creating my platform and continuously putting myself out there is the best risk I could have ever taken. Not only am I building myself up, but I’m also helping many.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
On my platform, BlkCurlsBuy (on Instagram), I produce digital content in an innovative way to market black-owned hair or skin care brands in hopes to spread the name and increase revenue for that business. Why black-owned business? Black-owned businesses face a disproportionate number of challenges, for example, lacking access to capital. In addition, I use my platform to share my own hair experiences, share product reviews, teach others how to simplify their hair care regimen, and do natural hair skits. It has not been a smooth road. This entire journey has been a learning experience. I’m an introvert, so putting myself out there always increases my anxiety. On the other hand, I really enjoy what I do. Not only am I helping spread the name of a brand, but I’m also creating positive representation by wearing my crown with pride, showcasing entrepreneurs, and sharing details on how to become a creator. This will show others they can do it too.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Currently, I’m located in the DMV (DC, Maryland, Virgina) area, so there are a lot of hidden gems within my area, I would definitely want to take my friends to Nara-Ya, Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard, and Severna Park -Escape Room.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to recognize and show out my son and mother. They both have been a huge inspiration to me and why I always push through even on my tired days. Also, I want to shout out my Curl Friends because we uplift one another to be the best that we can be. Lastly, I want to give a shout out to all of my supporters who continuously encourage , share kind words, and provide me with constructive feedback.

Instagram: https://instagram.com/blkcurlsbuy

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMiami is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.