We were lucky to catch up with TreManda Pewett recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi TreManda, thanks for joining us today. What sort of legacy are you hoping to build. What do you think people will say about you after you are gone, what do you hope to be remembered for?

I hope that I inspire the next generation and those to come to explore and seek the truth. I feel like knowledge is truly power. Some say “what you don’t know can’t hurt you”, but it can. Especially if you find out when a tough situation arises. The answers to most questions are inside books.

I want people to be mindful. People need to care more. I feel as though a little love goes a long way.

I often hashtag “Spread Love” on social media. I stand by that and really believe in it.

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

I am a self taught painter and digital illustrator from Chicago, Illinois.

I have 180k follower on Tiktok and 20k on Instagram. I am a very humble influencer and I love to work with all types of brands! Brands that are positive, creative, black owned, or global are my favorite!

I live in Atlanta now. I attend Spelman College. My major when I started college in 2012 was engineering. Now my major is History-Prelaw. I am 28 years young.

I offer digital portrait, logos, mural, graphic sketches, teeshirt designs, album art, and book illustrations.

I love creating books the most! Especially coloring books!

As a self taught artist I am able to create without limits. So, if you ever have an idea do not be afraid to contact me! I can work within most reasonable budgets.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

I pivot all the time!

During the day I am a student and cosmetologist. I cater to my clients as a mobile stylist here in Atlanta. I was raised by a master cosmetologist! I am an expert in hair extensions like tape extensions and micro links hair extensions (since 2010). I love to cut and color hair as well! all textures.

At night I am an visual artist by passion. I create art for celebrities as well as the everyday family. My favorite art to make is for kids! Kids have the best imaginations and reactions!

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

I am a black girl with two big brothers and a host of family including cousins, uncles, and aunts from the Southside of Chicago Illinois. The reputation of my city proceeds me.

My parents moved me away from Chicago to Denver for elementary school to achieve a better life and education. However, the struggle was real and by high school I was back on the Southside of Chicago. In high school there were funerals almost every other weekend. I used to make obituaries and memorial art often.

Spelman College was and is my dream school. I was so excited in 2012 when I got my acceptance letter. As a first generation College Student I was very lonely, I found comfort in my talents as an artist.

My second semester at Spelman College my brother passed away so I dropped out. I went to hair school and got really good at hair. I also illustrated everyday for therapy and got really good at art. That was blessing after the storm.

I got reinstated in 2019. I went to school during covid and I’m still pursuing my degree even with the many obstacles in my life. God has really carried me and I am excited to find out where I am going next.

Contact Info:

• Website: mandapandie.com
• Instagram: mandapandie
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tremanda-pewett
• Youtube: Manda Pandie
• Other: Tiktok TreManda / MandaPandie