We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Cathy Webb. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Cathy below.

Alright, Cathy thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

The most meaningful project I’ve worked on was also my first time modeling in a fashion show. The theme focused on increasing mental health awareness in the Black community and how it impacts every day life. My model group focused on depression. The clothing I wore was put together with safety pins (to symbolize how it holds the pieces of our life together) and included a full face mask (to symbolize how people try to hide what they’re dealing with from the world). In addition to the fashion show, there was spoken word, a dance number, singing, and emceeing. This event made a powerful statement using various forms to express the urgent need for more targeted resources to combat these life-changing health issues. in the Black community. Being a part of this event was amazing!

Cathy, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

My industry includes writing & publishing and the entertainment industries. In the former industry, I have self-published eight books, served as a ghostwriter, and completed several proofing/editing/formatting projects for other authors and entreprenaurs. This allows me to get my message across and help others do the same. In the latter industry, I have begun modeling with the goal of becoming an actress. I have actually served as a background extra on several sets. It was an amazing feeling to potentially see myself on TV. Here, I highlight the adage that you’re never too old to start something new (I am 49; yes I started modeling and acting at 49)!

I am most proud of my confidence and my passion to forge ahead no matter what. When I attend casting calls, I am typically the oldest person there. Initially, I felt awkward but now I walk in with my head high knowing “I got this.” Even if I am not selected, I see the “NO” as “Next Option,” not a rejection of me as a person.

What I want others to know about me and my brand is that we are all about freedom of expression and having the confidence to define and live as who you say you are, not the world.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding aspect of being a creative is being free to be myself while expressing my confidence and style. No two people are alike. However, some professions want individuals to fit into a mold or follow a model. They expect and encourage “group think.” Being a creative is all about freedom in every way possible. Once you accept that, there is nothing your creative mind can’t achieve.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

To best support creatives, society must begin to encourage individuality and freedom of expression, and not punish, shun, or “cancel” those who dare to step outside of the imaginary societal lines. Also, more resources to aid in expanding and strengthening the creative ecosystem would be a great move for society to make. As more individuals step outside of their comfort zone to forge a more independent path for their life and career, society will need to be prepared to merge with or be in competition with creative communities. Collaborative efforts are always more productive for everyone.

Contact Info:

• Website: [email protected]
• Instagram: instagram.com/blackqueen_cathy
• Facebook: facebook.com/author.cathylwebb
• Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/iamcathylwebb
• Other: Speaker Website: https://cathylwebbspeaks.com Model Portfolio: https://iamcathylwebb.wixsite.com/atlantamodel Instagram: instagram.com/thebaldwriter_cathy

Image Credits
Travis with @iconstudio_atl (images 1-2) Cathy L Webb (image of books) Jasmine @dreamaticav (image 4)