As we continually build All Things Melanin as a brand and a blog, one thing we've learned along the way is that collaboration is the key to growing, reaching new people, and to being succesful.
When we first began, we didn't know who we would reach, or who would support our platform. We just prayed about it, put out content we were proud of and that we felt would encourage women to be the best versions of themselves. As time went on and we were consistent, we began to network and mingle with like minded women wether through social media, events, or mutual aquaintences. Over time, relationships were established and we came to find out that our purpose and vision were similiar to others, which allowed us to say "hey, we should collab or do something cool together."
There's this huge misconception out there that women can't get along and are always competing to one up the other. Though this may be true in some instances, it's not the case in all. In fact, as we've continually put ourselves out there, we've begun to see quite the opposite. There are women out there who are eager to celebrate, support, and uplift you.
A few months back, we did a photoshoot with a former co-worker that turned out fantastic. Through her posting the pictures she took of us, someone she had previously worked with reached out to connect with us. Long story short, we ended up developing a relationship with this person and collabing with her on one or two projects.
As an individual, you are amazing and have a purpose on your life that is unique and needs to used. Someone needs what you have to offer or needs to hear what you have to say. And the truth of the matter is, you only have so much influence and know so many people. Collaboration is great because it allows you to expand your network and get to know other people outside of yours.
You never know who someone knows, who can be of assistance to you, or who you can help. There are so many talented people out there that have so much talent and potential that's not being used. We often look to the person who has all the connections or knows somebody, but sometimes the person sitting next to you or across the room is the person you need to connect with. Sometimes someone who is at ground zero or your level may not be poppin' yet, but they're on their way.
Never underestimate the power of your peers. Collabing is a great way to get experience, reach, and to sharpen your skills. There's no need to compete because what God has for you, will always be for you. We genuinely believe that in building a community for women to be the best version of themselves, it's important to encourage and help one another out. When one person wins, we all win and it's just keeping the path warm and lit for the next woman.
It's a beautiful thing when we can come together to love on one another, to encourage, and uplift one another. It's true what they say, whomever you surround yourself with, you become like. Collaboration over competition will always win!