We recently connected with Zacharij Martin-Ned and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Zacharij, thanks for joining us today. One of the most important things small businesses can do, in our view, is to serve underserved communities that are ignored by giant corporations who often are just creating mass-market, one-size-fits-all solutions. Talk to us about how you serve an underserved community.
I created my blog (@zippsquadent) with the purpose of providing any/all types of creatives a space they could network, expand, collaborate, and most importantly showcase their talent(s), within the Central Texas area (& expanding).
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I was born In Conroe, Texas – however I moved constantly due to my single mother also being in the military; so when that happened I would stay with other family across Texas. I was grateful to have my mom retire towards the beginning of my high school years, so I was able to settle in Copperas Cove Texas to finish out my schooling. From there, I briefly attended college in Georgetown, Texas as well as Brenham & Bryan, Texas before dropping out and coming home.
Moving from that point, I saw a void in this area for the creative/unconventional thinker, and decided to take it upon myself to create that space online for artists – we are also transitioning within our community to assist artists with things such as branding, booking shows, collaborating with other artists, and more. We provide promotion, opportunities for artists to win free promotion/marketing, cash prizes, challenges, local and online events, & more. The blog also includes daily news (local, state, pop culture) & event promotion.
What sets my brand apart from others is the overall experience. From start to finish, I am focused on the user experience and how to better streamline/encourage the viewer to interact while also providing some sort of value. I pride myself on working to ensure members/artists/fans/etc. feel they benefit from coming across/interacting with the ‘Squad’
We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?
I built my online presence by using word of mouth at social events/venues & collaborating with similarly followed brands/people.
Stay consistent and block out the noise. Determine what’s providing you value in your mission to build your audience. If it doesn’t add value, remove or modify it to ensure value is being provided.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect to me personally is the trailblazing aspect of following your dreams. It takes a lot, especially in today’s day and age to stand by what you believe in, especially when the majority may not support or endorse your vision. Each day is another step forward for me and what I believe in.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: instagram.com/ned4zsp
- Facebook: Zacharij Martin-Ned
- Twitter: twitter.com/ned4zsp
- Youtube: Zipp Squad Entertainment