Today we’d like to introduce you to Eternity James.

Hi Eternity, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I have been an eclectic artist ever since I can remember. At the young age of 4, I pictured myself in movies. I would act out scenes on the floor of my bedroom. I used to pretend to teach a class at an early age. I also remember using the hallway of my childhood home as my runway. I was still interested in modeling. I have modeled in college fashion shows, posed for some commercial and boudoir photoshoots throughout my career. I received my Bachelor of Science in fashion merchandising. Styling and learning the business side of fashion has always sparked my interest.

I worked regular jobs since I 16 years old; however, creating has always been my passion. My love for the arts runs through my veins. Acting, dancing, modeling, teaching, music, and writing have always been the loves of my life. Today, I am a teaching artist. I teach poetry and dance to kids and young adults.

When I was about 19 years old, I got the message that California is where I would succeed as an artist. However, I did not take the leap of faith until I was 32. I have no regrets and my heart is so much happier here in the Bay Area. I only have the capacity to live in my purpose. I am an artist.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has not been a smooth road. I faced a lot of hardships throughout my journey. I spent many years caring for others and I lost sight of myself. I was picked on in school and at home, so my self-esteem was pretty low. I sought validation from family and others too deeply. It was at 25 when I really started to do the work to heal myself. I decided to go to therapy and it was very eye-opening.

I was very unhappy as a young adult. My parents didn’t display a healthy love for me to see. I grew up in an environment that was filled with a lot of yelling. My upbringing felt more controlling than accepting. My family wanted me to be who they thought I should be. I always felt like the black sheep. I was outspoken, creative, and spiritual. I knew I was different, but I did not understand why that was deemed a “bad” thing. I struggled financially, emotionally, and mentally since high school.

When I relocated to Atlanta in 2021, I was able to truly let go of the expectations others had of me. I fell into a deep depression. It was with the help of amazing friends, a therapist, and my desire to live life on my terms. I made it through! I started to see who I really was within focused more on who I wanted to become. I finally fell in love with myself.

I struggled in Atlanta a lot, but I also received some flowers. People haven’t always been kind to me. I learned that has more to do with them than me. I had a few near death experiences in Atlanta. There were times I honestly did not want to live anymore. The lack of love I received from those who were supposed to love me the most was too much to bear. I’ve been hurt by many people I loved. I created my own family on this journey called life. My friends have gotten me through my darkest hours. The universe brought me amazing souls that I truly resonate with.

It was my time in Atlanta that opened my eyes to more truth about myself. I was able to sit in solitude. I knew something was different about how I learned. At 33, I received my autism diagnosis. I am unashamed of my reality.

I moved to California with no money and no place to live. My back was severely injured in a car accident and it hurt to simply sit down. I was unable to work for a while after that accident in November of 2022. However, I knew I had to make it here. I knew my dreams were worth pursuing! It was with the help of supporters and fans that I made it across country! I was in so much physical and emotional pain. Once I crossed into California, my heart was at ease. I knew the journey would be hard at first, but things would eventually get better.

After years of intentional, spiritual healing, I believe I am now reborn into a whole new woman! I worked really hard on myself and my gifts. I self-published a couple more books about my life’s journey. That was really therapeutic. I learned that being honest about my story, inspired others in theirs.

Your Story is Your Power.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am multifaceted performing and teaching artist. I specialize in acting, dance, poetry, and spoken-word. I teach kids and youth poetry and dance. It is so much fun and extremely rewarding! I am mainly known for spoken-word. I have been performing since 2011. I am most proud of self-publishing 5 books in under 3 years.

I am extremely self aware and I self-reflect a lot. I don’t think a lot of people are as honest with themselves as I am. I am a pure soul and I am thankful that I get to create magic. I teach people the power they have within to heal themselves… Just as a beautiful soul taught me the same.

What sets me apart from others is that I am not afraid to live my truth out in the open. I am fearless in my pursuit of freedom! I truly took a leap of faith moving thousands of miles away from everyone I know. I knew with every fiber of my being that California is where I belonged. I finally feel at home in this world. My soul is home.

What matters most to you?
Living authentically. I spent a lifetime living for everyone else. I was masking and trying to fit into places that were not for me. Living a lie is far too great of a burden. I believe living my truth is most important. Peace within is the greatest feat in this crazy world of ours.

Creating emotionally safe spaces for others is also extremely important to me. I believe artists, neurodivergent people, and anyone seeking change deserves a space they can be their most authentic selves. Not everyone has a safe space to go. I believe it is my calling to continue to create spaces for other artists.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.eternityhyppolite.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eternityechojames
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eternity-hyppolite
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@eternityechojames
• Other: https://linktr.ee/eternityh

Image Credits
Ikahnic Photos