Today we’d like to introduce you to Evelyn Brito.

Hi Evelyn, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.

Where do I even begin?! Growing up, I had the unique experience of being born in the bustling borough of Brooklyn, New York, and then being raised in the historic city of Boston, Massachusetts. This dual upbringing gave me the best of both worlds – the vibrancy and energy of the Big Apple, combined with the rich cultural heritage and academic atmosphere of Beantown.

Summers in Brooklyn were particularly unforgettable for me. I can still vividly recall the sights, sounds, and smells of the neighborhood bodegas,tasting delicious Dominican ice cream Mamita’s and dancing merengue at my aunt’s many weekend parties – WEPA!. The sense of community was palpable, and I was fortunate to have incredible mentors and role models who guided me through the challenges of growing up. They imparted valuable lessons that have stuck with me to this day.

From a young age, I found solace and expression in the arts. Drawing became a true passion of mine, and it evolved into an escape from the chaos and stresses of high school life. Art was my sanctuary, a way for me to channel my emotions and find clarity amidst the noise. It was through my artistic talents that I was able to secure a scholarship to the prestigious Massachusetts College of Art and Design. However, my academic performance was hindered by my struggles with dyslexia, leaving me with a difficult choice between pursuing further education at a community college or exploring a career in the beauty industry.

Despite low confidence in my academic abilities, I enrolled in hair school. This experience ultimately led me down an unexpected path as I began working on small movie productions, doing hair and makeup for the cast. Intrigued by this new world, a friend suggested that I explore the opportunities available in public access television. It was at the age of 20, when I had my son, that I truly felt the profound, unconditional love that would come to shape the rest of my life.

With a renewed zest for life, I delved deeper into my artistic pursuits and developed a keen interest in the world of television production. At BNNTV, I decided to produce a TV series focused on showcasing local and well-known comedians. I dedicated myself to this project for five years, and through this experience, I had the privilege of meeting and working with a diverse array of talented performers.

I received a scholarship to study at LA Film School. It was a difficult decision to leave my son with his father to pursue my dream. Over the course of three years, I gained a wealth of experience, knowledge, and new friends. Yet, my heart always remained with my son back home. When I returned, I faced challenges finding work, as the diversity that was embraced in Hollywood was not as widely accepted in Boston, MA. I knew I had transferable skills, so I worked as an event producer for Color Magazine. This pivot allowed me to connect with executives and gain an understanding of the corporate world through a diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) lens.

Having my second child, a daughter, has been a profound and transformative experience that has taught me to fully embrace and love myself. This journey towards self-acceptance and celebrating my femininity did not come easily, but it was one that I desperately needed to embark on. The birth of my daughter was the sunshine that I required to step into the spotlight of leadership and reckon with my own doubts and insecurities.

There were certainly moments along the way where I wondered if I would be able to keep the lights on, both figuratively and literally. Raising a family while pursuing my passions and dreams was no easy feat, and there were times when I felt utterly overwhelmed. However, I always had that little voice inside that gently but firmly assured me that I would be okay.

I’ve come to understand that life is not about reaching some final destination but rather about embracing the journey itself. Motherhood, womanhood, and this entire thing called life are all ever-evolving experiences that require patience, resilience, and a willingness to learn and grow continually. There is still so much for me to discover, but I feel empowered and emboldened by the progress I’ve made.

Today, I find myself co-founding a nonprofit organization called The Secret Society of Black Creatives, which is a testament to my commitment to uplift and support others who share my passion and lived experiences. There is still an abundance of exciting work to be done, both in my personal life and in the broader world, but I feel equipped to take it on. These profound experiences have irrevocably shaped my character and sense of purpose, filling me with a deep well of gratitude, strength, and determination.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?

I believe that when we face struggles, we often focus too much on taking immediate action to resolve them, which can lead to even more challenges down the road. It’s easy to get trapped in a mindset where every situation feels like a problem that needs an instant fix, rather than a challenge to be thoughtfully navigated. This perspective can become a self-fulfilling prophecy—the more we label something as a struggle, the heavier it feels.

Looking back, I realize there were times when I missed valuable opportunities because I was so consumed by the struggle in front of me that I couldn’t see the bigger picture. I often reflect on those moments and wonder, *What if I had approached that situation differently? What if I had been more resilient, more adaptable in the face of adversity?* These lingering “what ifs” remind me of the importance of shifting my perspective—of seeing challenges as opportunities for growth and learning instead of burdens to be eliminated.

One of my most significant struggles came after leaving an abusive relationship and moving into a two-bedroom apartment. Just two days after settling in, I discovered a mouse infestation. It made me feel sick, overwhelmed, and like I had somehow failed my kids by bringing them into such an environment. I felt trapped.

Then came a terrifying night when I heard a gunshot outside my building. I immediately rolled out of bed with my daughter, doing everything I could to keep her safe. That moment shook me to my core and pushed me to my limit. I knew I had to find a way out of this environment. Amid the chaos, though, a small voice inside reminded me to stay still, to trust the process.

Eight months later, on Christmas Eve, I moved to Lexington, MA—a pivotal moment that reminded me of the strength and resilience I had within me all along.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?

I’m a creative producer, writer, and storyteller with a deep passion for crafting narratives and experiences that resonate with audiences and make a lasting impact. My work spans over 18 years, specializing in producing events, content, and initiatives that celebrate diversity, community, and innovation.

What I’m most known for is my ability to bring stories and events to life in ways that captivate and engage. I’ve launched impactful community programs like *Lounge Thursdays* and *Outspoken Saturdays* at GBH, showcasing diverse talents at the Boston Public Library. As the executive producer and writer of *Bodega Makeover*, I’ve taken my love for storytelling to the next level by blending heartfelt narratives with social impact, revitalizing local bodegas to strengthen neighborhoods.

I’m incredibly proud of my role as the co-founder and president of *The Secret Society of Black Creatives*, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering Black and Brown filmmakers. Through networking, education, and advocacy, we’re creating opportunities for underrepresented voices to thrive in the industry.

What sets me apart is my ability to connect with people, both through my work and my story. As an Indigenous (Taino) Afro-Dominican American and a dyslexic thinker, I bring a unique perspective to problem-solving and storytelling. I thrive on turning challenges into opportunities, and I approach every project with creativity, resilience, and authenticity.

What I’m most proud of is the impact I’ve made—whether it’s transforming spaces through events, uplifting communities, or empowering others to share their voices. For me, it’s all about creating work that inspires, connects, and leaves a positive mark on the world.

So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?

There are two parts to my answer: self-discovery and community.

Self-improvement is important to me because I’ve learned to thrive in solitude. It gives me the space to reflect, work through the noise, and process the pressures of life. Whether it’s a result of getting older or simply finding clarity, I’ve come to cherish the peace it brings. There’s something profoundly joyful about those quiet moments—like watching a great film with a cup of delicious tea in hand.

On the other hand, community is just as vital to me. I thrive in environments where people share a common vision and mission, creating a sense of purpose and collaboration. At the same time, I welcome challenging environments where I’m pushed to adapt and grow. Balancing self-reflection with community engagement allows me to continuously evolve while staying connected to the bigger picture.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://keepitsimpleproduc.wixsite.com/ebrito
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evebrito11/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evelynbrito/
• Other: https://vimeo.com/841544142

Image Credits

Helder Sousa
Anawan Studios
Salud America