Today we’d like to introduce you to Damisha Collins.
Hi Damisha, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My name is Damisha Collins. I was born in Palm Springs but I’ve called San Diego my home since I was a toddler. I grew up in the neighborhoods of Chula Vista, North Park and Mira Mesa. Once I was old enough to have my own place, I returned to North Park and I absolutely love it! It has been amazing to see how much North Park has developed over the years with the addition of numerous businesses. I enjoy traveling throughout San Diego to try new things, supporting new and old businesses along the way. This love for supporting San Diego businesses led me to start my influencer business page, Mish Critiques.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Some of the challenges I’ve encountered is maintaining a work-life balance and finding creative ways to promote content. Life has been a whirlwind for me these past two years. At times, it has been tough to work my 9-5, maintain a personal life, and develop my small business. I have to remind myself that there are times to gather content and there are times for me to live in the moment. It has helped to set aside an amount of time, either per day or per week, for me to focus on my business. I also started Mish Critiques without prior knowledge of influencing, video editing, or photography. Learning how to film and edit has been a fun and challenging learning process!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I started Mish Critiques with the intention of highlighting eateries in San Diego for residents and visitors to experience. As time went on, I began to realize the impact I had on such followers and small businesses. I love the opportunities I’ve had to help support and promote businesses in my city. My niche has now expanded to highlight food, drinks, experiences and travel! From posts to reels to guides, Mish Critiques is truly well rounded. I have traveled out of the country every year prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. Now that country borders are beginning to reopen, I look forward to sharing more of my travel tips and experiences with everyone. Many people may not know this, but I have my Master’s Degree in Teaching and I teach as an Elementary School teacher! When I’m not teaching, I’m working on growing and developing Mish Critiques.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
I advise those looking for mentors to go to events and network! When I was invited to my first few influencer events, I was nervous to be surrounded by those who have been in the game much longer than me. I began introducing myself to other influencers anytime I had the chance. Once I developed a rapport with certain influencers, I asked to pick their brains about a few things that I had found tough to do. I have since received great content creator advice and I have developed close friendships! It’s so great to have continued support and advice from someone when you are in need. Be brave and put yourself out there! You never know what may come of it.
Contact Info:
- Email: mishcritiques@gmail.com
- Website: https://linktr.ee/Mishcritiques?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=baf42346-b7b1-451e-8728-d03bd57a717e
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mish_critiques/?hl=en
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@mishcritiques
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