Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ashley King. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Ashley thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Going back to the beginning – how did you come up with the idea in the first place?

In Fall 2021 I studied abroad in Rome, Italy. I was one of only two Black women in my program, and I know my experience was unique to me. Because of this, I began to journal my daily feelings and experiences. Closer to the end of my program I decided to create and publish a blog entitled Ashley in Italy. After positive reception and feedback from viewers in places such as Germany, Sweden and Spain, I wanted to take my experience to the next level. While studying abroad I was charged with the responsibility of recruiting other young women from my school (Bennett College) to study abroad. Taking inspiration from my blog post title and advice from the college president, I began drafting my first book in January 2022. On March 21, 2022, I received the paper copies of my self published children’s book entitled: Look, Ashley’s in Italy! I knew the book was an instant success when I had hosted a book signing and my Bennett sisters showed up in record numbers. My books sold out in under 2 hours! I found joy in finding that, after some conversation, the majority all wanted to study abroad someday. A few weeks later, I was allowed the opportunity to read my book to children at the Martin Dixon Intergenerational Center. I was surprised that after I finished reading my book to them, they read it back to me! A few months later, one of the Bennett Belles who came to my book signing began her study abroad journey in Ghana and brought a copy of my book to share with the children. I knew then that I had succeeded in my initial goal, which was to inspire other women of color to study abroad.

Ashley, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I am a spring 2022 graduate of the illustrious Bennett College, one of only two all women’s HBCUs in the United States. I am currently earning my maters’s degree in English and African American literature at THEE North Carolina A&T State University (Aggie Pride!). As a self-published author, my creative gears are constantly working. From brainstorming interactive activities that fit the theme of my book to reaching out to various schools and libraries for book reading opportunities, it is important that I consistently represent myself, my blog and book in unique ways to appeal to my intended audiences. After earning my master’s degree, it is my dream to teach English abroad.

Lately, I have been brainstorming a business which would encompass my many hobbies and interests in one, and would allow me to try my hand in more than one occupation at a time. In the life of my dreams, I will handle the business portion of each sector and I will have a board and paid employees to fulfill any orders. From scheduling book readings for children in Bali, to doing makeup for a local celebrity or even making decorated strawberries for a special event, I want my dream life to be free from the expectation of what a traditional career should look like.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

My social media contains many makeup looks, recipes, HBCU vlogs and more, which I believe were all factors in building my social media presence. Lately, I have been doing thrift flips and hauls, which attract people of all ages on social media.

Throughout my study abroad experience, I was sure to take plenty of pictures and videos to show my peers that studying abroad is an option for everyone. After publishing my blog and book, I included hyperlinks on my social media accounts to increase engagement in them.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

I believe my activity in the community and my willingness to be interactive with others helped my build my reputation. With a “village” like no other, I was constantly encouraged to get myself out there and inspire the next generation of world travelers!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://ashleythearies.wixsite.com/ashleyinitaly
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_ashleythearies/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100009318176500
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-king-b-a-571b31182/

Image Credits
Graduation photographer- Joshua Brown