We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Elana (Mansa) Marsh. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Elana (Mansa) below.

Alright, Elana (Mansa) thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Do you wish you had waited to pursue your creative career or do you wish you had started sooner?

If I could go back in time, I wouldn’t have started my creative career any sooner or later. The time I spent immersed in my studies in London, along with the experiences I gained during that period, profoundly shaped my creative inspiration and continues to influence my creative process.

My creative journey began in my first year of pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design before I transferred to the University of East London to study Marketing. Interestingly, I felt more creatively liberated in my marketing studies than in fashion design. This was because, in marketing, there are essentially no “rules”; allowing for greater experimentation and innovation. In contrast, my fashion design program required me to learn the structured principles and “rules” of the fashion industry, which at times felt more restrictive.

Elana (Mansa), 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 name is Elana Marsh, though many know me as Mansa. I work in the fashion and arts industries and have been immersed in these fields since my bachelor’s degree. My journey began in retail, assisting with activations and collaborating on community events during my studies. I later worked independently with fashion brands, bridging the fashion scenes of London and the United States with music artists with the likes of Andre Power and J.I.D.

I’ve combined my expertise in fashion and the arts with marketing, specializing as a branding and community strategist. Back in the States, I worked with companies and music artists to cultivate communities and build strong brand presences. Now, with experience spanning both the U.S. and the U.K., I have the privilege of serving as the Brand and Community Strategist for LOUD PALETTE, La GALERIE.

Being part of such a revolutionary space, “Where Art Meets Fashion, a Tapestry of Creative Expression”, this allows me to contribute to a digital and physical art gallery that weaves together creativity, diversity, and expression. This fusion of art and fashion provides a powerful platform, and I’m excited to apply my experiences to make a lasting impact within the arts industry.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

I really had to reflect on this because every lesson we learn serves a purpose sometimes, that purpose is unlearning so we can share newfound knowledge with others. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that I once believed if someone didn’t express interest in my abilities, it meant they didn’t see me as a good fit. In reality, a lack of external validation doesn’t define my worth.

If someone doesn’t recognize your value, it’s essential to move with confidence in what you bring to the table. You know your worth and the ROI you can deliver to a company. It’s always best to walk into a room, or into a brand with a clear vision of the strategies and tactics you can implement to elevate it.

Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

Oh wow! If there’s one resource I wish I had leveraged earlier, it’s my network. Building your network is absolutely essential. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is that , your network is your net worth. Opportunities don’t always come from simply applying for them; they often come from the relationships you cultivate.

The best way to start is by identifying the rooms you want to be in. Ask yourself, “What organizations align with my goals? Where do they meet? Do they host events or networking opportunities?” If you don’t know, start researching. Be proactive, reach out, attend industry gatherings, engage in online communities, and put yourself in spaces where meaningful connections happen. Your network isn’t just about who you know; it’s about who knows you and how you show up in those spaces.

I’ve come to understand that networking isn’t just about personal gain—it’s about, collaboration, mentorship, and community. I’m always open to connecting with fellow creatives, exchanging ideas, and supporting others on their journeys. Whether it’s sharing insights, offering guidance, or simply being a resource, I believe in the power of lifting each other up.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.loudpalette.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mansaelana/
• Other: Personal Portfolio: www.whatsmansa.com

Image Credits

Photographer: Krys Alex
All Portrait Photos

Website Credits: LOUD PALETTE, la GALERIE