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

Magen, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Are you able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen?

My entrepreneurial journey began as a kid making bracelets on a school bus for 75 cents apiece. I enjoyed the creative escape, and the drive to complete a project under pressure. Building up my piggy bank stash was also a perk. Fast-forward to my years in college as a journalism student, I was selling original art created in my dorm room, took photography gigs on the weekends, taught myself how to build a website, and learned everything there was to know about social media for professionals. I always had more than one job and was willing to learn.

As I entered into the “professional world” I soon discovered that in order to move forward or make a name for myself, I needed to step outside of my comfort zone. I needed to voice where improvement could be made within the roles I was given and request the creative freedom to build a web and social presence for employers. Leaving a digital footprint is what would create value for future growth. My motto is, “Always leave something better than how you found it.” From journalist to public relations for local government – I was still hustling on the side making websites, painting for commission, slinging graphic designs, and building up my name as a professional photographer. I always dreamed of owning my own business.

In 2021, amidst the uncertainties of COVID-19 and welcoming my second daughter into the world, I realized that my priorities had changed. The relentless pursuit of proving my worth and chasing titles had come to an end. My focus shifted toward my family, recognizing that time is precious and not guaranteed. With new opportunities unfolding, I embraced the chance to step away from the rat race and prioritize what truly matters. With encouraging support from family and friendships – I planned my exit strategy for months. They knew of my entrepreneurial spirit and it was time to fly!

After two years of operating my own creative marketing business, I can confidently affirm that I made the right decision at the opportune moment. The decade-long process of honing my skills and establishing a reputable image laid the groundwork for my initial achievements. Now, as I gaze toward the future, I’m focused on strategic planning and continual skill development in response to the dynamic digital landscape. I’m dedicated to assisting fellow entrepreneurs in realizing their brand visions, enhancing social media visibility across diverse industries, crafting impactful websites for brands aiming to leave a lasting impression, and spearheading a local initiative to empower women-owned businesses and foster community growth.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I honed my creative skills through freelance jobs for over a decade. My work revolves around optimizing time efficiency, enhancing brand visibility, and refining public perception, all while fostering positive and enduring partnerships. Drawing on a foundation in journalism and public relations, I bring an insider’s insight into the dynamic realm of marketing, recognizing the paramount significance of public perception.

For over a year and a half, I’ve helped co-chair the London-Laurel Co. Chamber of Commerce’s Women In Business group in southeastern Kentucky. I’ve been deemed a Kentucky Colonel, featured by Kentucky Bride Magazine, named the 2016 Master Musician Festival Artist of the Year, and the recipient of Kentucky Press Association Awards for photography and news writing. My skill set includes social media strategy/management, photography, web design/management, professional writing, and graphic design. I’ve built two apps for local government, although, app creation is not my cup of tea – it has a vital function for helping the community. Whether it involves enhancing the visibility of a medical practice to uplift community health or providing an entrepreneur with a compelling brand identity, my aim is to empower individuals to pursue their dreams and lead fulfilling lives.

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

My goal is to be an example to my two little girls as a strong, resilient human who doesn’t let others define my worth. Creativity is a part of my soul and it’s meant to be shared.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

Five years ago, I lost my mother to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The sickness progressed quickly within two years and within that time frame, she gave everyone her all. She was my creative encourager from the very beginning. She covered her home in my art and never missed an art show. She would connect me with non-profit groups to provide me with freelance jobs and saved every newspaper clipping or photo I had published. In addition, My father was an incredible example of an entrepreneur. He found a mentor as a young teenager and learned everything there was to know about building cars. He could build a locomotive from the ground up whether it was a new build or a classic car. He’d design the interior and exterior with intense focus and precision.

With both of my parents being incredible examples of encouragement, hard work, and dedication, I knew without a doubt that one day, I essentially would professionally go rogue. Life can unexpectedly change in an instant, and I don’t plan on wasting my moments to encourage, inspire, or help others.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://mzmediaky.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/magenzawko/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mzmediaky
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/magen-zawko

Image Credits
Magen Zawko, MZ Media