We were lucky to catch up with Taylor Bennett recently and have shared our conversation below.

Taylor , appreciate you joining us today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

I’m still in the early stages of my creative journey, having started styling in 2021 and expanding into publication and PR in 2022. As a 22-year-old, I view every project and connection as an opportunity to learn and evolve. The creative industry constantly teaches you, and the key to sustained creativity is openness—being receptive to new ideas, methods, and perspectives.

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is to create freely and consistently, without judgment. I often tell people: “I just tap into a creative flow state, allowing myself to create without expectation.” That freedom fuels authenticity and innovation. Alongside consistency, grounding yourself in your aligned reality and moving step by step are essential—success isn’t something to rush, nor should it be.

Practical experience has also been an incredible teacher. As a teenager, I worked part-time in small luxury boutiques, where I was fortunate to gain mentorship on styling high-paying clients. My internship with TATA PR in Beverly Hills was another pivotal moment, as it deepened my understanding of the nuances in styling, media, PR, and the broader creative industry.

One obstacle I faced was not attending a traditional creative school. While this saved me significant financial investment, it limited my access to certain internships and networking opportunities that required school enrollment. However, it taught me the importance of putting myself out there, seeking mentorship, and learning through hands-on experience.

To anyone navigating the creative field, I’d emphasize the importance of intuition, focus, and the courage to show up consistently. Creative careers may not follow a conventional path, but the lessons are invaluable if you stay open and grounded in your vision.

Taylor , 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?

Thank you for the opportunity to share my journey and the heart behind TFB Collective. My name is Taylor Bennett, and I’m a creative director, brand strategist, and the founder of TFB Collective—a dynamic creative representation agency and independent publication that connects, uplifts, and represents the next generation of diverse creatives.

I’ve always been passionate about the power of storytelling and the importance of creating spaces where young creatives, especially those from underrepresented communities, can thrive. My journey into this industry began with a deep appreciation for the arts and a desire to amplify the voices of creatives who often go unheard. Over time, I realized there was a gap in the industry—young talent needed not just platforms to showcase their work but also tangible support to build sustainable careers. That realization led to the birth of TFB Collective.

At TFB Collective, we provide a unique blend of services:

Creative Representation: We link freelance talent—including graphic designers, stylists, creative directors, writers, and photographers—to paid opportunities aligned with their passions.
Brand Development: We help creatives refine their identities, build portfolios, and create websites that showcase their work authentically and effectively.
Editorial and Event Curation: Through TFB Magazine and launch events in creative hubs like Amsterdam, Atlanta, Los Angeles and New York, we highlight underrepresented voices, focusing on innovation, diversity, and sustainability.
What sets us apart is our dedication to community-building. We’re not just an agency or a publication—we’re a collective. By bridging the U.S. and EU creative landscapes, we’ve built a global network that celebrates collaboration and mutual upliftment. From helping hairstylists and grill designers step into the editorial spotlight to curating bespoke PR strategies for our talent, we prioritize authenticity and inclusivity in everything we do.

One of my proudest achievements is watching the people we represent grow into their creative potential. For example, seeing a stylist develop their brand, secure a major collaboration, or watching a young designer’s work celebrated in our magazine reminds me why I started TFB Collective. These milestones symbolize the larger impact we’re making—helping creatives build careers that align with their values and talents.

For anyone engaging with TFB Collective—whether as a client, collaborator, or reader—I want them to know that our work is rooted in authenticity, community, and a vision of a more equitable creative industry. We’re here to nurture talent, break down barriers, and reimagine what success looks like for the rising generation of creatives.

If I could sum up what TFB Collective stands for, it would be this: we are champions of creativity, connectors of diverse talent, and advocates for a brighter, more inclusive creative future.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

A lesson I had to unlearn was allowing myself to operate in victim energy whenever things didn’t go the way I desired. Whether it was a job offer rejection or a friend not showing up for me in the way I thought they should, I used to take it very personally. This mindset often caused me to self-isolate, feel embarrassed, and fear rejection, and it started spilling over into everything I did. It stunted my growth because, as a creative, confidence and self-support are crucial—not only to create but also to put yourself and your work out there.

I realized that staying in victim energy was holding me back, so I made the conscious decision to shift my perspective. I started grounding myself in reality and embracing the power of alignment. Whenever I catch myself spiraling into negative thought patterns, I remind myself of an important truth: what is truly meant for me will never pass me by. If I desire an opportunity and it doesn’t work out, I no longer take it personally. Instead, I see it as a sign that it might not have been the right fit at that moment—or at all.

This mindset shift has transformed how I approach both my career and my relationships. For example, when a partnership for TFB Collective falls through, I take a step back to reflect. I ask myself what might have been misaligned about the opportunity and consider whether there’s something I can refine. If it’s truly meant for me, it might circle back at a better time—or another, more aligned partnership will take its place.

Unlearning victim energy has not only helped me grow but also allowed me to trust the process and my own power. It’s an ongoing practice of releasing control, seeking understanding, and staying open to abundance. Letting go of that fear and embracing alignment has been one of the best decisions I’ve made for my career and my connections with others.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

In my view, society can best support artists and creatives by releasing judgment—both toward themselves and others. So much of the negativity in our communities stems from individuals carrying self-judgment or self-hate, which they then project onto others. This creates an environment where creatives may feel discouraged or fearful about expressing themselves freely. When judgment and negativity dominate, it not only stifles individual artists but also deprives the entire community of the inspiration, motivation, and enlightenment that creatives bring to the table.

Every society thrives when it nurtures its creative people. Artists and creatives provide unique perspectives, challenge norms, and create spaces where people can feel connected, seen, and inspired. They’re often the ones building what I like to call “third spaces”—places outside of work and home where individuals can gather, explore, and grow creatively. These spaces are essential for community-building and self-discovery, but they can only exist when creatives feel supported, not judged.

I believe that if society collectively released the judgment it holds—whether about how people should create, live, or express themselves—we would see more people stepping into their creative power. This shift would open the door for more third spaces and vibrant local creative ecosystems, fostering innovation and collaboration. Supporting creatives isn’t just about attending events or buying their work; it’s about cultivating an environment of acceptance and curiosity where artists feel encouraged to share their light.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.tfbcollective.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tfbmag/ – https://www.instagram.com/tfbcollective/?hl=en
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-bennett-827210215/

Image Credits

Rachel Tomsche (TFB Mag Issue 01 Event Photos)