We were lucky to catch up with Darren Graham recently and have shared our conversation below.

Darren, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?

In April 2023, I made the life-altering decision to leave a 13-year career in education to pursue content creation full-time. My time in education had been deeply fulfilling, with a focus on advocacy and impact, but when I became a dad on June 2, 2022, everything shifted. Fatherhood gave me a new perspective, and I felt called to create a life centered on being present for my son, allowing me to build meaningful memories with him from the very start.

Stepping into the content creation world was a significant risk, but it’s one that has brought tremendous growth and fulfillment. Since making this switch, my audience has grown, and our community has taken shape in ways I couldn’t have foreseen. Not only has this path allowed me to connect deeply with people on a personal level, but it’s also captured the attention and trust of new, high-profile clients in the industry who resonate with our journey. Building this community around shared values and authenticity has been incredibly rewarding, and it’s amazing to see the positive impact we’re creating together.

This leap has opened doors I didn’t know were possible. From partnering with influential brands to building a loyal audience who trusts and supports us, every part of this journey has reinforced that following my intuition was worth the risk. It’s become more than just a career change—it’s a purpose-driven life, centered around family, connection, and growth, and I couldn’t be more grateful for where it’s taken us.

Darren, 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’m Darren Graham, a lifestyle blogger, single dad, and the proud owner of SHEEKSS, an affordable jewelry brand that embodies inclusivity, celebrating diversity in all its forms. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with some of the most iconic and trusted brands, including Uniqlo, Birkenstock, Expressmen, Kenneth Cole, Fenty Skin, L’Occitane, Gap, Native Shoes, Coterie, Mejuri, David Yurman, and Spinelli Kilcollin. These partnerships allow me to share products and stories that reflect the values of style, quality, and authenticity with a diverse and loyal audience (The Disco Ducks).

My mission is rooted in advocacy and representation. As a Black man, single dad, and member of the LGBTQ community, I aim to create a space where everyone, especially those underrepresented, feels seen and supported. I’m passionate about being an advocate for LGBTQ individuals considering parenthood, for Black and Brown men who may not always see themselves reflected in the media, and for families navigating or considering adoption. Through my platform @TheRealDarrenGraham, I bring an authentic and relatable perspective to lifestyle and fatherhood, sharing my journey in a way that’s deeply personal and inclusive.

What sets my work apart is the connection I build with my community. I bring a voice that’s genuine, relatable, and intentional, helping to bridge the gap between brand messages and real-life experiences. With every collaboration, my goal is to show the brand’s story through the lens of real-life applications—whether it’s how Fenty Skin supports self-care, how Native Shoes fit into an active dad’s lifestyle, or how Mejuri and SHEEKSS jewelry celebrate individuality and self-expression. These partnerships are more than just campaigns; they’re about telling stories that resonate and inspire.

I’m especially proud of the community we’re building—a place where people feel encouraged, understood, and motivated to live authentically. For anyone interested in my journey, my work, or the values I stand by, know that I’m here to create content that’s meaningful and true to who we are.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

My creative journey is driven by a simple yet meaningful mission: to foster connection and inclusivity. As a lifestyle blogger and single dad, I aim to create a space where everyone feels seen and valued. Being a Black man and a member of the LGBTQ community, I want to inspire others, especially those who may not always see themselves represented.

Through my content, I share real moments of fatherhood, self-care, and community. My hope is to build a supportive environment where people feel encouraged to embrace their identities and know their stories matter. This mission is what motivates me to keep creating and sharing.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being a creative is the ability to connect with others through my work. It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that my experiences and stories resonate with people, especially those who may feel underrepresented or overlooked.

When I share moments of fatherhood or insights on inclusivity, and someone reaches out to say that it touched them or helped them feel seen, that connection is what truly drives me. Knowing that my content can inspire or uplift others is a powerful reminder of why I create. It’s not just about the art itself; it’s about building a community where we can all share our journeys and support one another. That sense of belonging is the greatest reward.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.SHEEKSS.com
• Instagram: TheRealDarrenGraham
• Youtube: DuckyAndDada
• Other: TikTok: iAmDarrenGraham

Image Credits

Lucas-Grey Graham