We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Shellane Zonicle a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Shellane thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. The first dollar you earn is always exciting – it’s like the start of a new chapter and so we’d love to hear about the first time you sold or generated revenue from your creative work?

I remember like it was yesterday, my very first paid gig. It was for some hair care company lol, I never heard of. I was so excited for my first real check. At the time I was heavy on YouTube doing my lil thing and this particular company reach out to me and offer free product for a review and stated they would pay me if my video made over 10k. I already knew I was not getting paid because I was so fresh on the scene but challenge myself anyway. I received the product and did my first review and that video blew up. I was in utter disbelief, the company contacted me about revenue for my video and I definitely low balled them but was smart about it. I still collect a small fee to this day for the two videos I put out lol. Please ladies and gents know your worth. I didn’t at the time but I know now.

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

I’m from a little island in The Bahamas. I got into the blogger industry by being inspired by the ogs Jackie,Shayla, Tiara, Nitra B, Missylyn , Peakmill I can go on and on but my inspiration came from these ladies. I offer Fashion,Lifestyle and Momhood for all the #itmoms out there. I post about the everyday boujieeee mothers lol but now your mom around the way that’s into fashion and have not lost herself that is my target audience. I think my style and tone towards everything in hiders me apart from most creatives. I am proud of the growth in myself meaning I’m proud that I learn to take breaks and not compare myself to other creatives I’ve learn to be in my own lane and that works just find for me. I want them to know that I will always stay true to my authentic self. Also I plan on launching my business very soon in the near future.

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

Independence drives my goal, passion pushes it , determination allows me to achieve it.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

Being able to showcase myself for others to see. Insulting moms that they too can be #itmom and not just a #mom

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Maricialifestyle
• Facebook: Maria’s lifestyle
• Youtube: Mariciaslifestyle
• Other: TikTok- Mariciaslifestyle Email- [email protected]