We were lucky to catch up with Zulekha Pitts recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Zulekha thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you recount a story of an unexpected problem you’ve faced along the way?

One of the most unexpected challenges I faced in my journalism career happened while securing an exclusive interview with DJ Khaled. I initially interviewed him on the step and repeat at Casadonna Miami—everything seemed perfect. It was a video interview, and I had him right where I needed him. But after wrapping up, I discovered the worst possible setback: the audio didn’t record. The entire interview was unusable.

I had two choices—accept the failure or find a way to fix it. The next morning, I raced to a golf course where Khaled was making an appearance, determined to secure the interview again. His reps had already made it clear that I had fumbled my shot, and I knew I wouldn’t get another chance if I messed up this time. My original goal was to land a video interview, but the real requirement was getting the quotes I needed for my article. That was my priority now.

This time, while I didn’t have a video setup, I made sure the audio was locked in, securing the key quotes I needed to deliver the story. And just when I thought the moment couldn’t get more surreal, Young Jeezy interrupted our conversation, adding an unexpected but unforgettable twist.

That experience reinforced the importance of resilience, adaptability, and staying focused on the core mission. In journalism, things don’t always go as planned, but what matters is making sure you walk away with what you actually need—anything extra is just a bonus.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’m Zulekha “Zee” Pitts, a journalist, communication strategist, and performing artist passionate about telling stories that inform, entertain, and leave an impact.

As a staff writer for Miami New Times, I covered news, entertainment, and investigative stories with a bold and engaging voice. My background in digital production, on-camera hosting, acting, modeling, and singing allows me to merge traditional journalism with multimedia storytelling. I’m also completing my Master’s in Communication, strengthening my expertise in media strategy, audience engagement, and storytelling across platforms.

Before joining Miami New Times, I worked with some of the biggest names in media, including USA Today and CBS. My time in national newsrooms gave me extensive experience in content strategy, audience engagement, and multimedia production. I specialize in SEO-driven journalism, ensuring that stories don’t just resonate with readers but also reach the widest possible audience. Whether it’s crafting a compelling article, producing digital content, or optimizing pieces for search visibility, I understand how to make content work in today’s fast-paced media landscape.

I also offer SEO consulting, content strategy, and media production services, helping brands, businesses, and individuals maximize their digital presence. I know what works—how to position stories, optimize for search, and craft compelling narratives that drive engagement.

Beyond journalism, I’ve made my mark in film. Most recently, I played Aunt Jae in the short film Triggered, which was selected for the Georgia Shorts Film Festival. The film, part of the NUMB SERIES, explores the realities of untreated mental illness and its effects on the mind.

Movie lovers might have also spotted me sharing a scene with Simu Liu in the Amazon Prime action-comedy Jackpot, starring John Cena and Awkwafina. And in a fun twist, I play—what else?—a journalist in the upcoming thriller Final Hour, which is currently in post-production.

What makes me different is my ability to blend journalism, communication, and the performing arts into one dynamic brand. Whether I’m breaking news, conducting high-profile interviews, or stepping into a role on screen, I bring the same level of passion, authenticity, and attention to detail. My work isn’t just about storytelling—it’s about making sure the story resonates.

I want my audience—whether readers, viewers, or industry peers—to know that I stand for versatility, cultural relevance, and storytelling that makes an impact. Whether through words or performance, I’m here to tell stories that matter.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

Absolutely. One of the biggest things non-creatives struggle to understand about my journey is that artistry and storytelling aren’t just hobbies or side hustles—they are a calling, a way of existing in the world. Creativity doesn’t come with a set timeline for success, and it often requires years, sometimes even a lifetime, before the world fully recognizes your work. But that doesn’t mean it isn’t valuable from day one.

The uncreative often see the journey as impractical because it doesn’t always yield immediate financial rewards. They look for tangible proof—steady paychecks, titles, corporate ladders to climb—while a creative’s proof of progress isn’t always visible. It’s in the process, the body of work being built, the small wins, the risks taken, and the relentless pursuit of something greater.

When I push forward in journalism, communication, and the performing arts, I do so because I know these talents weren’t given to me by accident. They weren’t “hints” toward a purpose—they are my purpose. Every article I write, every video I produce, every performance I give, whether it’s in a newsroom or on a film set, adds another piece to a larger creative legacy. It’s not about waiting for the world to catch up. It’s about doing the work and trusting that the recognition, the rewards, and the impact will come in their own time.

Non-creatives often project their fear of the unknown onto artists, as if success only matters once it reaches the level of fame, fortune, or virality. But a true creative knows that the work itself is the reward. The ability to create, to tell stories, to connect with people, and to bring something into the world that didn’t exist before—that’s the real power.

So, to those who don’t understand the journey: creativity isn’t about chasing a dream—it’s about honoring a gift. And sometimes, honoring that gift means walking a road that doesn’t always make sense to others. But that’s okay—because the creative isn’t waiting for validation. The creative is busy creating.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

One of the biggest tests of my resilience came when I had to make an impossible choice—one I never imagined facing: my career or completing my Master’s degree.

I had relocated permanently from the Atlanta area after accepting a job as a staff writer for a Miami news publication, fully committed to excelling in the role while finishing my degree. Balancing both was challenging but entirely manageable. Then, I faced a major obstacle: my final required course for graduation had to be taken in person.

Two months before the semester started, I requested a temporary remote work arrangement for less than five months—a reasonable request considering that my job was already largely remote, focused on research, writing, and conducting interviews via phone and email. I wasn’t asking for special treatment, but flexibility to complete something I had worked years for. I even proposed multiple alternatives, including freelance work, adjusted responsibilities, or an unpaid leave of absence.

Rather than engaging in a good-faith discussion, my employer delayed their response until just before Christmas, leaving me with almost no time to explore alternative solutions. Despite my repeated efforts—including seeking support from my union—they rejected every option I proposed and ultimately forced me into a position where I had no real choice but to resign.

It was devastating. I had uprooted my life for this opportunity, only to be placed in a situation where I had to choose between my future and my present stability. But instead of allowing that moment to break me, I made a decision that honored my long-term success: I chose to finish my degree.

Through this experience, I learned that resilience isn’t just about enduring tough situations—it’s about knowing your worth, advocating for yourself, and making difficult choices that align with your growth.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://muckrack.com/zulekha-pitts
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zulekha-pitts-78343057
• Other: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm15720964/