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

Hi Simone, thanks for joining us today. Can you share a story with us from back when you were an intern or apprentice? Maybe it’s a story that illustrates an important lesson you learned or maybe it’s a just a story that makes you laugh (or cry)?

Back in college, I was the queen of internships! Every summer, I made it a point to secure a spot in someone’s media or communications department. I interned at the FAA, worked at Reagan National Airport, and even participated in a program that matched you with organizations for mentorship and professional development. I truly did it all—and looking back, those experiences shaped so much of how I operate today.

One lesson that stuck with me is the importance of adaptability. Working in such different environments taught me how to adjust to new settings quickly and how to interact with people from all walks of life. It was a crash course in interpersonal skills and professionalism.

Those internships also prepared me for corporate America. By the time I entered the workforce full-time, I already had a solid understanding of how to navigate corporate settings. I credit those years for giving me the confidence to not only hold my own in the corporate world but eventually build my own business where those skills come into play every day. Looking back, it’s funny how those early experiences that seemed like stepping stones were actually building the foundation for my entrepreneurial journey.

Simone, 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 Simone, the creative force behind On Brand Creative Agency. I’ve always had a passion for storytelling and bringing ideas to life. Growing up as an only child in Prince George’s County, I was surrounded by a supportive family that encouraged me to aim high and stay true to myself. That confidence carried me through Hampton University, where I majored in Strategic Communications and started my entrepreneurial journey by teaching myself protective hairstyles and launching my first business, Fauxlocsnstyles.

Fast forward to now, I’ve taken my love for creativity and paired it with strategic insights to help entrepreneurs and businesses stand out in their industries. Through On Brand Creative Agency, I specialize in crafting unique brand identities and visuals. Whether it’s brand and social media strategy, photography, videography, web design, or social media consulting, I love taking a client’s vision and turning it into something that resonates with their audience. What sets me apart is my ability to truly connect with my clients, understand their goals, and deliver solutions that align with their brand’s purpose.

One of the things I’m most proud of is the trust I’ve built with my clients. Many of them return year after year, whether it’s for a new brand launch, a rebranding project, or ongoing support. I think that speaks volumes about the value I bring and the relationships I’ve cultivated along the way.

For anyone reading this, I want you to know that I’m all about collaboration and creativity. My goal is to make your brand stand out in a way that feels authentic and impactful. If you’re looking for someone who can bring your ideas to life and help you navigate the ever-changing world of branding and marketing, let’s connect—I’d love to hear your story and explore how we can work together.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding part of being a creative is seeing my ideas come to life and make a real impact. There’s nothing like watching the results of a brand shoot, a marketing campaign, or even a piece of advice I’ve shared translate into growth for my clients—whether that’s increased sales, better engagement, or a clearer brand identity. It’s the satisfaction of knowing my work is helping other people build something meaningful.

I also value the freedom and flexibility that comes with this path. Being able to move on my own terms and create without limits is a huge blessing. On top of that, meeting so many entrepreneurs who look like me has been incredibly inspiring. Building connections within the Black entrepreneurial community feels like a reward in itself—it’s powerful to see others chasing their dreams and know that I get to play a small part in their journey.

Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

The most effective strategy for growing my clientele has been simple but powerful: providing excellent service that people can genuinely depend on. It’s one thing to call yourself a service provider, but if your work doesn’t back that up, word spreads quickly. I pride myself on delivering for my clients, whether they’re working with me for the first time or they’ve been with me for years.

Consistency is key—going above and beyond to meet their needs, staying organized, and being reliable builds trust. When clients feel like you’re truly invested in their success, they’ll not only keep coming back, but they’ll also recommend you to others. That word-of-mouth reputation has been invaluable for growing my business and creating lasting relationships. At the end of the day, your work should speak for itself, and I strive to ensure that mine does.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.onbrandtheagency.com/
• Instagram: @simonedhunter
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonedhunter/