We recently had the chance to connect with Melissa Hunter Davis and have shared our conversation below.
Melissa, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What do you think others are secretly struggling with—but never say?
Most people I know and observe suffer with some level of depression. Often we don’t have the language because we have a picture of depression that doesn’t account for the fact that we can still function while feeling slightly numb. However life’s gut punches, setbacks and errors can make everyday living a challenge that seems insurmountable.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Melissa Hunter Davis and I’m the founder of Sugarcane Magazine, a mother and a strategist to young women entering into entrepreneurship. I started Sugarcane when I noticed that there wasn’t a quality platform about Black art on a global scale. We were one one the first in a new wave of media focused on Black art just as the interest in African diaspora art took shape in the art world. We have produced podcasts, short films and events with more expected on the horizon.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
My high school theater teacher saw my talents before anyone else. She encouraged me to pursue a career in the arts, encouraged travel and dared me to continue with my independent lifestyle. If not for her I’m not sure if Would have discovered my potential.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes- and I do it at least once a year (ha!). I chose to work in a field that required more support than I actually had, but if I didn’t pursue this dream at the time I had it, it would never come to fruition. Also, sometimes people see the potential of my work but don’t follow through on partnerships which leaves the company in a vulnerable place. Once I move the puzzle pieces, I get back to work but it is never easy.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What important truth do very few people agree with you on?
That you can have it all but not at the same time. Women often work, take care of aging parents, spouses and children with little support. Further, we want to be the best at all our oles, but that is not always realistic. You will at some point delegate tasks to a spouse, sibling or hire help for your life to run smoothly. Most young women I meet think they can do it all and don’t heed my warnings.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. If you laid down your name, role, and possessions—what would remain?
I’d still be a creative and resourceful woman. I’d still enjoy helping others realize their dreams. I’d still love my family and have a desire to enjoy the humanities.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://sugarcanemag.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/sugarcanemagazine
- Youtube: https://YouTube.com/sugarcanemagazine
Image Credits
Mrs. Hunter Davis photos by Andrea Morales
