Today we’d like to introduce you to Yolande Clark-Jackson.
Yolande, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
The way I got started as a writer was a combination of nature and nurture. I started writing journals and poems in the back of old notebooks and address books my mom left lying around the kitchen. I loved reading and was drawn to words, but my mom also read to me, took me to the library, and often corrected my grammar. My father was an engineer, but he was also an educator. I grew up in a busy house as the youngest of six, and I was the smallest and a bit introverted. Writing helped me find my voice. I went on to write for my school paper in high school and college. I earned a degree in English, taught English, started a journalism program, earned my MFA in Creative Writing, and then published a children’s book with my husband. I have also published nonfiction articles. My current project is hosting writing socials for adults that pair with food and wine. I call it “Wine Down and Write.” It is my opportunity to share with others how writing can be fun and one way to heal yourself and connect with others.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It wasn’t always a smooth road to becoming a freelance writer. At first, I didn’t know how to make the time to write. Then I didn’t know where to start and then had to overcome fear of rejection. Now, I work to maintain the self-discipline to write, pitch and repeat. I would tell those wanting to write professionally that learning about the market and what you want to write about are important, and getting rejected is a part of the process. Rejection gives you a thick skin and helps to strengthen your resolve. I would also recommend new writers join writing and reading communities online and in person. Attending author events are often inspiring as well.
We’d love to hear more about Rocko Rocket.
I am a professional writer, educational consultant, and speaker. I would say I have specialized in writing and language arts. I taught it for twenty years. I feel I have a lot to offer schools and organizations on how to help students or participants improve their writing and find meaning in it.
I am most proud of myself for going back to school to get my MFA in creative writing while I was working full time, running a student magazine program, and raising two children. My dad was dying my last year as well, which made it even harder to focus on assignments, but I did it. I am also proud of what my husband and I accomplished with our award-winning children’s book, Rocko’s Big Launch. It won the Writer’s Digest Self-Published Book Award for Children’s Picture Books in 2014.
Finding a mentor and building a network are often cited in studies as a major factor impacting one’s success. Do you have any advice or lessons to share regarding finding a mentor or networking in general?
I think the best way to find a mentor is to attend events and ask questions. Most importantly, be clear about what you are seeking from a mentor and ask for it. I found mentors in my MFA program, but before then, I attend writing workshops and retreats to connect with other writers.
Pricing:
- Rocko Rocket 19.99
- Wine Down and Write $25 per person
Contact Info:
- Website: Yolandeclarkjackson.com
- Email: yoginita72@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/yolandeinprofile
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/yolande.clarkjackson
- Twitter: YClarkjackson
- Other: Rockorocket.com
Image Credit:
Melissa Burkhead
Keisha Jackson
Iliana Artime
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