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

Bobby, appreciate you joining us today. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?

Our mission at The BT Collective and through my work as a creative strategist is to champion individuality, amplify underrepresented voices, and create a platform where art, fashion, and culture intersect meaningfully. This mission is deeply personal because it reflects my journey of navigating the creative industry, often feeling unseen or unsure how to express my vision fully. I’ve experienced the transformative power of mentorship, collaboration, and authentic storytelling, and I want to be that bridge for others.

What makes this mission so meaningful to me is seeing the impact—whether it’s helping a client refine their narrative, supporting an artist in reaching new heights, or simply inspiring someone to embrace their unique voice. It’s about creating ripple effects in a world where everyone deserves to feel seen, heard, and celebrated for who they are. To me- It’s not just work; it’s legacy-building, and it’s a privilege to be part of something bigger than myself.

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

I’m Bobby Trendz, a creative strategist, brand builder, and Editor-in-Chief of The Art of Design (AoD) magazine. My work exists at the intersection of art, fashion, culture, and storytelling. Growing up, I always loved aesthetics and a deep appreciation for individuality, but I didn’t always see a clear path for turning that passion into a career. Over the years, I’ve carved out a space where I could express myself and empower others to do the same.

I officially got into this industry through years of experimenting, learning, and networking. I started by collaborating with emerging artists and brands, helping them define their identity and connect with their audience. Over time, this grew into The BT Collective. This creative agency focuses on elevating individuals and organizations by offering brand strategy, social media management, creative direction, and storytelling services. Whether it’s helping fashion stylists position themselves in the industry, guiding artists to showcase their work more effectively, or building innovative campaigns, I see my role as creating clarity and amplifying impact.

What sets me apart is my approach to every project. I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all strategies. Each client or project has its own voice, and I pride myself on being a translator for that vision—bringing it to life in a way that feels authentic and meaningful. My ability to connect with people and help them discover and articulate their uniqueness drives my work.

I’m most proud of the community I’ve built and the lives I’ve helped transform through creativity. Whether it’s an emerging stylist finding their confidence, an artist breaking into new markets, or a brand expanding its reach, those wins feel personal. Through initiatives like AoD, I can celebrate ‘emerging voices’ and ensure that diverse perspectives get the spotlight they deserve.

What I want people to know about me and my work is that it’s always driven by purpose. I’m passionate about making creativity accessible and impactful. It’s about more than aesthetics—it’s about leaving a legacy of inclusion, innovation, and empowerment.

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

Building my Instagram following has been an organic journey rooted in authenticity and consistency. When I first started, my goal wasn’t just to gain followers—it was to create a space that felt like a true reflection of who I am and what I stand for. I focused on curating content that spoke to my passions: art, fashion, culture, and storytelling. I shared polished visuals and the behind-the-scenes moments and thought processes that make those visuals possible. Over time, this transparency resonated with people and helped me build a community rather than just an audience.

Another key factor was engagement. I treated Instagram as a dialogue, not a monologue. Whether it was responding to comments, participating in collaborations, or initiating conversations in my DMs, I prioritized connection. This created a sense of trust and loyalty, which is crucial for growth. Partnering with like-minded creatives and brands allowed me to tap into new audiences while staying aligned with my vision.

My advice for someone just starting their journey as a social media influencer is simple: start with your ‘why.’ Know what you’re passionate about and want to share with the world. Then, focus on consistency—whether that’s in the tone of your captions, the look of your feed, or how often you post. Authenticity always wins; people are drawn to what feels real and relatable.

Also, don’t underestimate the power of storytelling. Every post, reel, or story is an opportunity to share a piece of who you are or the value you bring. Lastly, be patient. Growth takes time, and the best communities are built on genuine connections, not shortcuts or trends. Remember, it’s not just about the numbers; it’s about the impact you create

Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

The most effective strategy for growing my clientele has been a combination of building genuine relationships, maintaining a strong personal brand, and consistently delivering results. Word-of-mouth has been a powerful driver—when you create transformative experiences for one client, they naturally become your advocate and recommend you to others. I always prioritize understanding a client’s unique vision and delivering work that meets and exceeds their expectations.

Networking has also played a crucial role. I’ve made it a point to immerse myself in spaces where creativity, art, and culture thrive. Attending events, collaborating with like-minded individuals, and staying active within industry circles have allowed me to connect with people who resonate with my work. Often, these connections turn into collaborations or long-term client relationships.

Another key strategy has been curating my online presence. Through platforms like Instagram, I showcase my work and the values and passion behind it. This transparency attracts clients who align with my aesthetic and philosophy. By showing the process, the impact, and the story behind the work, I’ve built trust before ever having a formal conversation.

Lastly, I believe in the power of partnerships. Collaborating with brands and creatives who share my vision has allowed me to expand my reach while maintaining authenticity. It’s not just about finding more clients—it’s about finding the right clients, those who see the value in what I bring to the table and are ready to build something incredible together.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.bobbytrendz.com
• Instagram: @bobbytrendz
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-f-samuels-jr-a62395105/

Image Credits

Image Credits: Antonio Griffith (AAGDOLLA)