Today we’d like to introduce you to Deanna Loggins.
Hi Deanna, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
After I finished my undergraduate degree in 2018, I wanted to start a new hobby now that I had more free time. I love being Black and am proud to be, and I believe that is because of my family and the strong community it has given me. So this gave me the idea to promote and create spaces for Black people to learn about Black businesses, experiences, and natural hair. At the time, there weren’t many people doing this, so I felt that it was a way to start a new hobby while making a difference. So I started by creating a space where people could easily find Black businesses to support and natural hair advice. My platform is small but mighty. I’ve collaborated with some Black-owned businesses and even featured content in VH1’s “Black Joy” campaign. I can’t wait to see how my platform continues to grow and the spaces I can help create for my community.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
This journey has been incredible, but I have struggled with consistency. Working full-time and being a full-time master’s student during a pandemic didn’t always leave me the space to create content and explore the Twin Cities or Black businesses as much as I would like to. But now that I have finished my program and things are opening up, I can’t wait to showcase more Black businesses and communities.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am first creating a community for Black people to find ways to support each other legally, emotionally, and financially. The 2nd has content I made about my family being used in a national commercial for VH1, and we were compensated financially (the entire experience was really exciting for us). What sets me apart is that my niche is not only fashion, food, or business. It’s the entire Black experience. I did this so I wouldn’t have to limit myself on what I could discuss, allowing my platform to evolve as I do. I think I am most proud of 2 things. 1st I am proud of creating a community for Black people to find ways to support each other legally, emotionally, and financially. The 2nd has to be the content I made about my family being used in a national commercial for VH1, and we were compensated financially (the entire experience was really exciting for us). What sets me apart is that my niche is not only fashion, food, or business. It’s the entire Black experience. I did this so I wouldn’t have to limit myself on what I could discuss, allowing my platform to evolve as I do.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Since I am not from Minnesota, I had to find ways to network. I know it can seem intimidating, but there are people out there who want to connect and help you succeed. I would suggest starting at work, making those connections, or joining an organization to make connections and possibly lifelong friendships. I always recommend looking through hashtags on Instagram or Facebook groups to find people with similar interests and goals as you.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://deannaloggins.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/young.black.frugal/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/yngblack_frugal
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJrVwK47Owv8DQ-4sJ9y9Cw/featured
