Today we’d like to introduce you to Denielle Miller.
Hi Denielle, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My journey began the moment I was born, and for as long as I can remember, I have been captivated by the entertainment industry, particularly documentaries that narrate compelling stories and talk shows. I would watch programs like 106 & Park on BET, despite my grandmother’s disapproval, and dream of one day sitting on that couch.
Initially, I envisioned myself as a performer, but over time, I discovered my true voice. I engaged in youth services at church, taking on roles such as moderating, acting, and participating in panel discussions. During junior high school, I developed a keen interest in journalism and aspired to take the course in high school; however, I was assigned to business classes instead. Nevertheless, I realized my desire to pursue a career in broadcasting, even though I was uncertain about the path to take.
I held various unrelated jobs while continuing to engage in media activities on the side until one day, my Godmother, Monique Forbes, called me into her office during my lunch break. She sat me down and told me that I was squandering my talents and needed to pursue broadcasting full-time.
I took her advice to heart, and my spirit resonated with it. I fought to secure a position at a telecommunications company, believing it to be my dream job; however, it turned out not to be the case.
Nonetheless, it played a significant role in shaping my current career. I started as a door-to-door salesperson, which improved my agility, and eventually advanced to the position of events and sponsorship team lead, allowing me to connect with numerous individuals in the local entertainment and sports sectors.
During that period, I also hosted a show on the network, which provided me with valuable insights into production and budgeting. Later, I transitioned to the role of sales administrator before departing from the company, where I learned effective people management and system creation.
Shortly after leaving the company, I launched my YouTube channel and a show titled S.I.S (Spill It Sister). This talk show featured my godsister Ranique and me as we engaged in candid discussions about topical issues affecting our community, interspersed with personal anecdotes, all while enjoying a glass of wine. New episodes were released monthly.
The new show was a success, having achieved 10,000 views and nearly 1,000 subscribers across its eight episodes.
During the first year, I filmed an episode in Atlanta featuring Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon, the founder of the Village Market and an author, with assistance from Astra Rolle, the former Bahamas Consulate General for Atlanta.
In the early stages, most viewers praised the quality of the show, and the standard remained high thanks to sponsors Travon Patton, Mark Cartwright, and T&T Media. They provided valuable insights into shot setup and lighting, enhancing my understanding of the technical aspects of production.
Subsequently, I began covering red carpet and special events as a correspondent for The Recap Room, an independent media outlet based in Atlanta. In 2022, I transitioned to the role of analyst and on-air talent for Hype+, previously known as Comedy Hype.
In 2023, I commenced operating the teleprompter at a local news station named Our News, and during the summer of that year, I was invited to serve as a correspondent for their Independence Special Broadcast. This live morning show aired daily throughout the week of the country’s Independence.
Shortly after the completion of that project, I was approached to undertake entertainment reporting as a freelancer.
Two years later, I transitioned from a contract reporter to a full-time entertainment and lifestyle journalist.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The journey has absolutely not been easy.
Had it been so, I would not be participating in this interview. Your publication would have no reason to be interested in me, as I would have long since settled into comfort.
There is no narrative when one is at ease; in ministry, we often say that without a test, there is no testimony.
Some of the challenges included discovering my own voice within the local industry. I was aware that I wanted to be on television, but during my high school years, local reporters primarily focused on crime or political stories, and I was determined not to confine myself to that.
Thus, I faced difficulties in figuring out how to enter the industry and how to turn this into a profitable career, as passion alone is insufficient without financial gain.
There were nights when I felt like giving up, especially while I was involved with S.I.S, struggling to make ends meet. However, I recognized that merely sitting behind a desk to survive would stifle my spirit, so I resolved to persevere.
You will encounter individuals who fail to recognize your vision, and they may attempt to belittle you, which can contribute to feelings of imposter syndrome, making you doubt your worth.
I found it challenging to maintain a sense of normalcy in my life, and eventually, I came to understand that normalcy is linked to mediocrity, which in turn is associated with the need for validation. Therefore, I had to learn to embrace discomfort.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I work as a journalist focusing on entertainment and lifestyle.
I have gained recognition for my distinctive interview approach. I do not engage in asking questions merely for sensationalism. Malcolm X once stated
“The media’s the most powerful entity on earth. They have the power to make the innocent guilty and to make the guilty innocent, and that’s power. Because they control the minds of the masses.”
This quote resonates deeply with me and motivates me to take my profession seriously. Each time I conduct an interview or write a news article, I remind myself that my voice holds significance and it is my responsibility to educate. Therefore, I pose questions that either enlighten or motivate.
My Caribbean background distinguishes me. From my Bahamian dialect to my extensive understanding of music and culture.
The region boasts a rich heritage and a wealth of talent, yet the narratives are seldom shared. I take great pride in being able to narrate the stories of our history, national leaders, artists, musicians, creatives, and icons.
What were you like growing up?
During my childhood, I identified as an introvert, and to some extent, I still do. However, I also exhibited a mischievous streak and a strong-willed nature.
I had a fondness for BET, much to my grandmother’s disapproval, as she believed the programming was too mature for someone my age. I took pleasure in playing video games and jumping rope.
I participated in dance lessons and was a member of my church’s dance ministry until I reached the age of 18, if I recall correctly.
As a child, I preferred solitude; just provide me with snacks, and I was content. I spoke very little and have always been captivated by Michael Jackson. I watched numerous documentaries on various subjects, including animals, the civil rights movement, and Behind the Music.
When in the company of others, I gravitated towards adults, although they often sent me away. Nevertheless, I was consistently drawn to wisdom. There was an elderly woman named Mrs. Rolle who owned a restaurant across from my mother’s workplace. Every day after school, and even on some weekends, I would spend hours in her restaurant, engaging in conversations about life. Even as an adult, I would occasionally visit her restaurant, and we would simply talk.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/DenielleAM
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deeamiller
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1858EdGMSp/
