Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Annette Gomes. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, Annette thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Let’s jump right into how you came up with the idea?
WUT A Voice Communications
I was 2-3 years into my broadcasting career and I knew I didn’t want to continue. Years before I read of a woman featured in the section of a magazine entitled ‘Cool Jobs” She was a voice over artist. I knew this was something I could do – I would apply all that I learned in Journalism school – Diction, tone, writing scripts. I took a class at a studio in Atlanta – If you read the script to the teachers liking – she would make your first demo. I call it the Johnny Carson moment. I would continue to build my business over the last 10 years, naming it Wut a Voice Communications. It was a national transition for someone that was in broadcasting. I’ve voiced for brands such as Pfizer and The National Museum of African American Museum. I have my own home studio as well. I knew this was my gift so I pursued it passionately. In 2021, I lent my voice to the movie “Garage.” And as part of a radio play entitled Planet Man
I am a former Senior Strategic Communication Planner with the Department of Defense at the Pentagon in Washington DC. and a writer with the Warrior Transition Command where I developed content focused on Wounded, ill, and injured Soldiers as they participated in the Warrior Games and the Invictus Games with prince Harry.
Before joining the Warrior Transition Command. I spent more than 20 years combined as an Anchor, Reporter and Talk Show Host with KOMU – an NBC affiliate in Columbia Missouri and 13WMAZ- CBS in Macon, Georgia.
Originally from Barbados, I grew up outside of Chicago. I hold a BS in Agricultural Economics from Fort Valley State University in Fort Valley, Georgia, a BS in Agricultural Journalism- Broadcast division from the University of Missouri, Columbia, and an MS in Agribusiness Management from Alabama A & M University in Huntsville, Alabama.
In my spare time, I volunteer for the Wright to Read Program in Arlington Virginia and Our Place – A food kitchen dedicated to feeding the homeless.
I currently reside in Waldorf, Maryland with my husband Phillip and our Australian Sheppard Dylann Grace.
Dream Out Loud LLC
I along with Dr. Terrence Ferguson, star of the hit show “Critter Fixer Country Vets” founded Dream Out Loud Media After years as a Reporter, Anchor and now voice actor, I’ve dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion in children’s literature. Our books, such as “C is for Critter Fixer” and “We Look Different but We’re All the Same,” celebrate differences in race, ethnicity, and abilities while highlighting the shared qualities that unite us all. These stories serve as a catalyst for fostering empathy, understanding, and breaking down stereotypes among young readers.
In a time where diversity and representation are pivotal, Dream Out Loud Media’s collection of books plays a crucial role in providing young readers with characters that reflect their own identities and experiences. By offering a diverse range of narratives, children are not only encouraged to embrace their uniqueness but also gain a broader perspective on the world around them.
With a spotlight on authentic storytelling, Dream Out Loud Media aims to revolutionize the landscape of children’s literature by championing inclusivity and representation. By making these impactful and diverse books available at a rate of $15 each, the company is committed to addressing the literacy challenges facing our youth, especially exacerbated by the impact of COVID-19. By instilling a love for reading and promoting the message that books can transport you to endless possibilities, Dream Out Loud Media is on a mission to empower children to believe in themselves and thrive.
I developed C is for Critter Fixer after of hearing of Dr. Ferguson’s journey to becoming a veterinarian. Terry an African-American boy is influenced and inspired by different factors to dream of being something that seemed far-fetched -becoming a veterinarian. Terry has a love for animals and picks up every stray he sees, but his dream of being an animal doctor does not seem obtainable because he has yet to see one that looks like him. Until he meets Dr. Talbot. despite not seeing anyone. that looks like him growing up in a small town.
We Look Different but We’re All the Same is based on my experiences as a writer with the Department of Defense, capturing the lives of Wounded ill and injured Soldiers. After a summer baseball game, little Terry stumbles upon a puppy in desperate need of medical attention. Realizing the puppy requires surgery that will result in the little dog losing a leg, Terry embarks on an emotional journey that teaches him a profound lesson about life. “We look Different but we’re all the Same” weaves together a tale filled with compassion, resilience, and hope. This heart-touching story affirms that, despite our physical differences, we are all fundamentally the same. It emphasizes the power of acceptance and showcases the ability of individuals, regardless of age, to demonstrate empathy towards animals and humans alike.
I am a storyteller by heart, so I’ve managed to parlay all these gits into something that I love -whether its voice acting or writing. Challenges will come and go but they are meant for you to grow. Failure is not an option.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
Annette Gomes: Born for Greatness
From the moment I was born, I knew I was destined for greatness. But I also understood that the road ahead would be anything but easy. My journey has been one of unwavering faith, relentless determination, and an unshakable belief that dreams are meant to be turned into reality, no matter the obstacles.
Born in Barbados, I was raised with the quiet strength of this island—strength that would guide me through the twists and turns of life. When my family immigrated to the U.S. in 1972
In the U.S., I encountered new hurdles. The journey was not easy, and I often wondered if I was too soft, too out of place. But with time, I came to realize that my sensitivity would serve a higher purpose. I knew I was meant for something more, and I would fight to make it happen.
Growing up in a predominantly Jewish neighborhood in the suburbs of Chicago, I found myself in an atmosphere of success and opportunity. I embraced it, determined to rise above the challenges and seize every opportunity that came my way.
I realized education was the key to unlocking my future. With a blueprint of hard work and determination, I set out to carve my own path.
In high school English class with Susan Benjamin that I understood my true calling. As I wrapped my name around a perfume bottle and introduced myself to the class, I boldly declared, “This is Annette, an elegant and classy scent that permeates the senses.” Ms. Benjamin, with a knowing smile, gave me an A and later said, “Your voice will carry you to television one day.”
Guided by my play aunt’s wisdom, I attended Fort Valley State University in Georgia along with her daughter, my best friend of the last 50 years. Though I had dreams of a career in television, for some odd reason I pushed those dreams to the back of my mind.
I studied Agricultural Economics after an upperclassman suggested I explore the field. But as my journey unfolded, I realized it was not by chance that I was there. I would later attend Alabama A&M University, earning a Master’s in Agribusiness. I began creating newsletters and writing stories for the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). It was through a radio interview that my life took yet another turn. An English professor told me I needed to pursue a career in communications, and soon, I found myself on the airwaves, delivering a weekly farm report. That was the moment everything changed.
Encouraged by my current boss to study Agricultural Journalism via the broadcast sequence, I enrolled at the University of Missouri. My career in broadcasting took flight, and by 2002, I graduated with a degree in Agricultural Journalism, ready to take on the world.
I returned to middle Georgia in 2002 to work for the CBS affiliate 13WMAZ in Macon. During my 13 years there, on and off, I served in various capacities including reporter, morning anchor, and talk-show host. Other positions followed, including Communications Specialist, Writer, and Strategic Communications Specialist for the Department of Commerce and the Department of Defense.
After 30 years in this industry, I entered chapter two of my life.
In 2012, I developed my own voice over company: Wut a Voice
Communications. I specialize in Corporate, Narration and E-Learning
production. My voice can be heard in the African-American Museum in
Washington DC and for health giants like Pfizer and door dash.
In 2015, I co -authored “C is For Critter Fixer.” It was released in March of 2020. Shortly thereafter, I co-founded Dream Out Loud Media LLC with Dr. Terrence Ferguson, star of the hit TV show Critter Fixer Country Vets.
Our follow up sequel; “We Look Different but we’re all the Same” was released in September 2023.
In my spare time, I volunteer for the Wright to Read Program in Arlington Virginia and Our Place – a food kitchen dedicated to feeding the homeless.
I reside in Waldorf, Maryland with my husband Phillip and our Australian Sheppard Dylann Grace.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
I think embracing your gifts is probably at the heart of what I do. I call them God winks. At the age of 5 I looked into the tv set and said I’m going to be in television one day. My entire life people would talk about my voice and how it would impact people. From my second grade teacher, to my high school english professor, to the camera man/woman. I knew this was my destiny. I often was teased about my voice as much as I was praised-so there are times when I say to myself “I’ll show you” My brand is about living out your dreams – passion. inspiration. If it is your gift you will succeed.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
I solve a clients problem. When I’m handed a script – There’s a problem and the product becomes the answer to solving this problem. My voice is there to give it life. That’s the beauty of applying my gift
Contact Info:
- Website: www.annettegomes.com dreamoutloudmediallc.com
- Facebook: Annette Gomes
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annette-gomes-34ba7717/
Image Credits
N/A