Today we’d like to introduce you to Eboni Harvey.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
My curiosity in the art of storytelling began many years ago in high school. I finished watching the 1995 comedy ‘FRIDAY’ and immediately wanted to know what gears were turning to make this movie happen; I also wanted to know where I could possibly ‘fit my gear’ in an operation as such.
Fast forward to August 2014, I would find myself in a Barcelona hostel wanting to come back to the States to do something different besides just working. I made up my mind standing staring out the window without a view and began to picture myself dressed in a kitchen uniform working for the top chef in San Diego or Hillcrest’s videographer.
I returned home from my trip to see that SoulKiss, an events group curated spaces for queer Black womxn in San Diego were looking for interns. On Sept 11, 2014, I met up with Hip Hop Artist and playwright, Miki Vale and producing partner and educator, DJ Niomiesoulfly. Their intention was to have me pass out fliers for the weekly Hip Hop night, but I wanted to produce video promotions instead. I didn’t see not having a camera as being a problem. I had an Ipad mini and although I had cracked the screen on my way trip to Barcelona, it definitely did the trick. I don’t even think SoulKiss made any fliers after my induction to the team.
My persistence led to the purchase of my first DSLR in October of 2015 and then I introduced myself to local artist and photographer, Shamera Reid aka Poetiic who gave me consistent opportunities to not only shoot but connect with artists, athletes, poets, singers, dancers, and young black entrepreneurs.
Connection after connection, the list of people and organizations that I worked started to get very long within the next two years. My success didn’t come without personal struggles, but I just kept creating. Besides, I had the support of those that I’ve seen through the lens to keep me positive and forward-thinking. I began building relationships with the people around me because the qualities I saw in them I wanted for myself. Artists like Miki Vale, Kendrick Dial, Jonnae Thompson, Anita Dias, DJ Redlite, Kandi Cole are still consistent supporters-they were there in the beginning to now.
The rest was history. I just met one incredible person after another that changed my life. Several organizations have helped me match my passion with purpose. Change happens when people are moved to do so; if change is presented in an approachable way, then the performances or experience that follows is highly effective-whatever its aim.
Videography is my form of activism. My portfolio is littered with protest art because I have collaborated with some of San Diego’s active fighters and movements.
I am a creative with a camera who is in love with ideas. I expand on idea after idea and question not only how these ideas can be visually and intently presented but how the characters, shapes and/or content from these ideas connect memory to experience and impact an audience regarding some of life’s most complicated issues.
I learned in 2014 when joining SoulKiss how effective video would be in targeting LGBTQIA women of color for access to their events. I believe the world needs to see the constant flexing of black leadership in protest, specifically the leadership behind March 4 Black Women, San Diego and Black Lives Matter San Diego and their continued fight for equity in the black community. San Diego non-profit, Paving Great Futures has allowed me to document true community work and passion. But they also have afforded me a valuable experience without the camera. As a creative educator, my motive is to encourage participation and expand students thoughts about creating opportunities all while keeping the betterment of the community in mind. The non-profit has appointed me as one of the lead instructors for its E.M.P.I.R.E (Entertainment and Media Program Inspiring Rising Entrepreneur) program; in it I am able to share my knowledge about media forms, influence, mental wealth, and financial literacy with middle school-aged boys in Southeast San Diego.
Currently, I am working with Armand King, author, Domestic Human Sex Trafficking and Gang Expert Consultant, on several projects including visuals for a motivational music album and a documentary centered on bringing awareness to the anti-human sex trafficking movement. Since working with Stephanie Johnson, a jazz artist and Creative Director for Voices of Our City Choir, I have a new understanding of the face of homelessness; unsurprisingly, it has a black face. I am so inspired with every visual I make with choir because it is confirmation that ending homelessness takes persistent community effort. I’ve traveled to Puerto Rico, twice following Hurricane Maria with renewable energy genius Faisal El Azzouzi, founder of non-profit GETCHARGEDUP. During these trips I really explored my perception of human, legal, political, and industrial rights and how minimal or lack of these rights are affecting the African diaspora. Dane Henderson of KNSJ Notes From The Underground and REDiNATION constantly reminds me how important it is to control as much media as you can.
Great, 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?
Following the death of my friend Courtney Dixon in 2013, I didn’t think to dream much. Courtney and I had almost a ten-year difference between us, however, we were at the early stage of creating a T-shirt business together; I started having goals and believing in my creative talents.
When she left, so did that passion until my return from a trip to Barcelona.
There have definitely been many struggles.
Struggles with personal integrity and communication, just to name a few, nevertheless, I’ve learned and will continue to BE BETTER. My success depended on my willingness to change and improve and become aware of my weak chains and missed opportunities.
I can’t quite say how bumpy this road has been because I have spent a majority of the time smiling, gazing out all the windows and playing music.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about EB OF COURSE – what should we know?
I am a visual storyteller and specifically in San Diego, a historian for the socio-political climate since the start of the Trump Administration.
I shoot, direct, and edit all of my videos except for a few, I specialize in sharing a vision with whomever I am working with. That is the whole point of collaboration. I am creative. I am quick with ideas but also an active listener to ensure accuracy in our vision. Once I see that vision in my minds eye-it’s over!
I would truly say I’ve found my passion. Videography has allowed me to practice to flex the attributes that allow me to be the leader of all that I want for my future.
I am most proud of my persistence and my ability to take criticism in all facets of my journey. That coupled up with this ‘eye’ that everyone compliments has changed the view of myself. I live with passion and purpose.
Visual storytelling is an art form that allows me to investigate representations, situations, depictions and ideas that can only be realized in video. My aspiration is to creatively collaborate with social justice minded community members whose fight has roots in racism, poverty, mental health, and education.
I just turned 40 years old in June and I want nothing more than to continue to share a vision with like-minded individuals to create and reflect the change we wish to see for the next 40 years.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Persistence.
I have failed many times, but I’ve persevered and keeping my mind’s eye in focus.
I started thinking about ways to succeed rather than reasons to not continue. I think about where I want to be and when I envision that potential, I analyze all possible moves from there.
Every moment is a lesson in itself, so my thoughts become the discourse shaping my purpose and self-image.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ebofcoursevisual.com
- Email: ebofcoursebooking@gmail.com
- Instagram: @ebofcourse
Image Credit:
RLW Photography – 1 photo credit
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