We were lucky to catch up with Diane Roney recently and have shared our conversation below.
Diane, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to start by getting your thoughts on what you are seeing as some the biggest trends emerging in your industry.
In recent years, we’ve witnessed a remarkable surge of African American women making significant strides in the digital AI world, particularly through the creation of innovative digital products. This trend is not only transformative but also inspiring. Let me share some insights into the biggest trends in this industry and my thoughts on them:
Trend 1: Increasing Diversity and Inclusion
One of the most prominent trends in the digital AI world is the growing emphasis on diversity and inclusion. Organizations and initiatives are actively seeking to create more inclusive environments, opening doors for talent from underrepresented communities. African American women are playing a pivotal role in pushing for these changes, advocating for greater diversity not just in hiring but also in the development of AI technologies themselves.
Trend 2: Ethical AI Development
Another significant trend is the focus on ethical AI development. As AI systems continue to evolve, there is a growing recognition of the potential biases and ethical concerns embedded within these technologies. African American women in the field are at the forefront of addressing these issues, advocating for transparency, fairness, and equity in AI algorithms.
African American women are leveraging their creativity and expertise to develop digital products that empower their communities.
My Thoughts:
I find these trends incredibly promising and necessary for the continued development of AI technologies. The increased diversity in the field not only brings fresh perspectives but also helps mitigate biases in AI systems. African American women are contributing to the industry’s ethical evolution and creating products that address specific community needs.
However, there are still challenges to address. Concerns include the need for more access to education and resources for underrepresented groups, as well as continued efforts to combat bias in AI algorithms. The opportunities are vast, with the potential for AI to address critical social issues and improve the lives of marginalized communities.
In conclusion, the emergence of African American women in the digital AI world is a trend that holds great promise for the industry’s future. Their commitment to diversity, ethics, and community empowerment is driving positive change and shaping a more inclusive and equitable AI landscape.
Story or anecdote:
African American creatives are making significant strides in the field of AI through platforms like Etsy, where they showcase their artistic talents and combine them with emerging technologies. Here’s how they are using AI on Etsy:
Customized Product Recommendations: Many African American sellers on Etsy are using AI algorithms to provide personalized product recommendations to their customers. By analyzing customer preferences and browsing history, these creatives can suggest items that align with a buyer’s taste, leading to increased sales and customer satisfaction.
Artistic Generative AI: Some artists and designers are incorporating generative AI techniques into their creative process. They use AI models to generate unique patterns, designs, or digital art that can be applied to various products such as clothing, accessories, or home decor. This allows them to offer a wide range of unique and eye-catching items to their customers.
Supply Chain Optimization: AI-powered tools can help streamline inventory management and supply chain operations for Etsy sellers. African American creatives are using AI-driven analytics to better predict demand, optimize pricing, and manage their stock efficiently. This enables them to stay competitive and reduce overhead costs.
Customer Service Chatbots: AI-driven chatbots are increasingly being employed to provide customer support and answer common inquiries on Etsy shops. African American sellers can enhance their customer service by implementing these chatbots, ensuring timely responses to customer queries and issues.
Social Media Marketing: AI-powered marketing tools are used by African American creatives on Etsy to target their audience more effectively. They leverage AI algorithms to analyze customer behavior on social media platforms and adjust their marketing strategies accordingly, reaching a broader and more engaged audience.
Customized Products: AI technology allows for the creation of personalized and customized products. African American creatives can use AI-driven software to offer customers the option to customize items such as apparel, jewelry, or home decor with names, quotes, or specific designs, adding a personal touch to their offerings.
Data Analysis and Trends: African American creatives on Etsy are utilizing AI-driven data analytics tools to gain insights into market trends and customer preferences. By understanding these trends, they can adapt their product offerings and marketing strategies to stay relevant and meet the demands of their target audience.
AI-Enhanced Photography: High-quality product images are essential on Etsy. Some sellers use AI-based image editing tools to enhance their product photos, ensuring they stand out and attract potential buyers.
Incorporating AI into their Etsy shops allows African American creatives to not only expand their product offerings but also stay competitive in the digital marketplace. By leveraging these AI technologies, they can enhance the customer experience, increase sales, and continue to express their unique artistic talents while adapting to the evolving digital landscape.
We are using bots to help pain points for people who need help with their lives which for me is quite exciting and I’m glad to be in a group of women who teach us how to do this and that this field is emerging especially for African American women.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
Hello, I’m Diane Roney, the creative force behind dianeroneycreates. My artistic journey has been an exhilarating fusion of diverse crafting endeavors, each chapter building upon the last, leading me to where I am today.
My creative journey began with a love for scrapbooking, card making, and general crafting. These hobbies allowed me to explore my passion for design and expression. As a self-taught sewist, I delved into the intricate worlds of embroidery and quilting, honing my skills and nurturing my love for fabric and texture.
My entrepreneurial spirit then led me to launch Cultured Fabrik, an online African fabric business. This venture allowed me to connect with the vibrant world of African textiles and showcase the rich cultural heritage they embody.
As I evolved, so did my creative path, and I rebranded as dianeroneycreates. Today, I’m immersed in the captivating realm of digital AI art and digital crafting. I specialize in crafting innovative and visually stunning digital products that merge technology and artistry.
One of my recent achievements that fills me with pride is the creation of a successful coloring book titled “Soul-ful Stitchers.” This coloring book is a celebration of the beauty of stitching and embroidery, offering a meditative and artistic experience to coloring enthusiasts.
At dianeroneycreates, I solve a variety of creative challenges for my clients. Whether it’s providing unique digital art for their projects, sharing crafting inspiration, or offering insights into AI-driven creativity, I aim to empower others to explore their creative potential.
What sets me apart is my diverse background and ability to seamlessly blend traditional crafting with cutting-edge technology. I’m proud of the journey that has brought me here, embracing new skills, and embracing the ever-changing landscape of creativity.
For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want you to know that dianeroneycreates is a haven for innovation, inspiration, and the celebration of creativity. I invite you to explore the limitless possibilities of digital AI art and crafting alongside me. Together, we can transform ideas into digital masterpieces and embark on a journey of artistic exploration like no other. Thank you for joining me on this creative adventure, and I can’t wait to see where our imagination takes us next.
Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?
One of the most effective strategies for growing my clientele at dianeroneycreates has been a combination of authenticity and digital presence. I believe in the power of storytelling and genuine connections, and I’ve applied these principles to my brand.
1. Authentic Online Presence: I’ve cultivated a strong online presence through my website, social media, and now working on my Etsy shop. It’s essential for me to showcase not only my finished products but also my creative process and journey. Sharing the ups and downs of my crafting endeavors has allowed my audience to connect with me on a personal level, creating a sense of authenticity that resonates.
2. Engaging Content: Content marketing has played a crucial role in my growth. I create content that speaks to the hearts of my audience. Whether it’s blog posts, video tutorials, or social media updates, I aim to provide value, inspiration, and insights related to my craft. This approach has not only positioned me as an expert but also fostered a loyal community of craft enthusiasts.
3. Networking and Collaboration: Building relationships with fellow artisans, crafters, and artists has been enriching. I actively engage with online communities and collaborate on projects that align with my brand. These connections have expanded my reach and brought me opportunities for growth.
4. Exceptional Customer Service: Providing exceptional customer service is non-negotiable. I believe in treating each customer with care and respect. Satisfied customers become repeat buyers and often refer others to my business, contributing significantly to my clientele’s growth.
5. Continuous Learning and Innovation: I’m committed to continuous learning and innovation. Staying updated on industry trends and improving my skills ensures that my products and services remain fresh and relevant to my audience.
Ultimately, what sets dianeroneycreates apart is the fusion of creativity, authenticity, and a deep connection with my clients and followers. My brand is not just about products; it’s about shared experiences, inspiration, and a passion for crafting. I’m most proud of the community that has formed around my brand, and I want potential clients, followers, and fans to know that dianeroneycreates is a place where creativity knows no bounds, and where we can explore the limitless possibilities of art and crafting together.
Where do you think you get most of your clients from?
The best source of new clients for me has undoubtedly been the combination of TikTok, social media, word of mouth, and my genuine personality. These elements have synergized to create a powerful network effect that has significantly expanded my clientele.
1. TikTok and Social Media: TikTok, along with other social media platforms like Instagram, has been instrumental in reaching a wider audience. Through engaging content, I’ve been able to showcase my creativity, share insights into my crafting process, and connect with individuals who resonate with my work. These platforms provide a dynamic and visual way to captivate potential clients and inspire them to explore my products and services further.
2. Word of Mouth: Word of mouth is a timeless and trusted source of client referrals. Clients who have had positive experiences with dianeroneycreates often share their satisfaction with friends and family. The genuine enthusiasm of satisfied customers can be contagious and leads to new clients reaching out to experience my creative offerings.
3. Genuine Personality: My genuine personality, which shines through in my online presence and interactions, has played a pivotal role in attracting clients. People are drawn to authenticity, and my commitment to sharing my crafting journey, including both successes and challenges, has fostered a sense of trust and relatability. This authenticity resonates with clients who appreciate not only the products I create but also the person behind the brand.
The interplay of these factors creates a domino effect. Social media exposes my work to a broad audience, while word of mouth recommendations and referrals validate the quality and authenticity of my brand. When potential clients discover dianeroneycreates through these channels, they often find themselves drawn not just to the products but also to the person they’ve come to know online.
In essence, it’s the personal connection, fostered by my genuine personality and amplified by social media and word of mouth, that has been the most powerful catalyst for attracting new clients. This connection forms the foundation of trust, creativity, and shared passion, which are at the heart of what dianeroneycreates represents.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.dianeroneycreates.com
- Instagram: dianeroneycreates
- Facebook: dianeroneycreates
- Other: TikTok — dianeroneycreates
Image Credits
Houston Quilt Festival National Association African American Quilt Guild