Prioritizing Your Passion: Simona Noce

Simona Noce is the founder of L’Afropolitan PR and Special Events. The company is based in DC while Noce finishes her Senior year as a Public Relations Major, Political Science Minor at Howard University. However, the company’s reach is throughout Los Angeles, New York, Atlanta and West Africa. Noce speaks to AimerAmour about building her brand and the time management skills necessary to be a stellar student and successful young entrepreneur. AimerAmour also reviews L’Afropolitan’s most recent event AFROFUSION below!

AIMERAMOUR: What sparked your interest in Public Relations?

SIMONA NOCE: Working with ICM (International Creative Management) inspired me to get into the entertainment industry but it was very different working for a talent agency when I’m interested in Public Relations. Working in Los Angeles exposed me to more publicists and that’s what sparked my love for PR in the entertainment industry. ICM started it all. Then I became a project manager for Howardwood and I also work with the ABFF (American Black Film Festival) and that’s how it all got started.

AA: How did you know you were ready to start your own business?

SN: I was collaborating with other companies and other people before L’Afropolitan was established. I noticed that when working with other people the vision is shared. I had to do everything that other person or company wanted to do so I couldn’t make it my own. I couldn’t fully execute my event. This was fine at the time because I enjoy working with others, however, I was confident enough in passion for my target audience to do things for myself. I don’t look at it as competing with other PR firms, I look at it as I am filling a void I knew was there for a lot of African and African American young professionals. I know that I’m good at what I do and I’m definitely genuine when It comes to the relationships that I develop in the PR and entertainment industry.

AA: What’s been the hardest aspects of establishing your own company?

SN: Finding focus. Sometimes I think can do everything and do PR for everyone. So its definitely been hard to discipline myself and say I need to focus more in this or that particular area in order to succeed. Also, building creditability and a quality brand for myself. Some older more seasoned publicists don’t take me as serious because I’m young. However, I always say I have something unique to bring to the game. Especially since I’m from Ghana and the purpose of L’Afropolitan is to pick a completely different niche.

AA: How are you bettering yourself as a publicist? How are you making sure that you’re on the cutting edge of what is best for your clients?

SN: As a publicist, I’m always making sure that I’m up to date with what is going on even if it doesn’t have to do with entertainment. If I’m equally as informed with current events such as health, environmental and political issues, I can find a way to incorporate what’s going on in the world with projects I am doing for my clients. It’s crucial for publicists to be knowledgeable of the world outside of entertainment.

I also make sure that my relationships with my clients and their audience is ongoing. I’m making sure that I am always in touch with what my client wants and with what their audience wants. I’m excited about climbing up the ladder in my career but I have to be patient to know that my time is coming and this is the season of planting, growing, and building for myself and my brand.

AA: Where do you see the brand going? What are you doing now and within your last semester of college to expand the L’Afropolitan brand to new audiences?

SN: I’m having events every month. Before I officially launch the company in January, I’m producing a fashion event in September. I’ll be doing a screening in October. I’m planning an event for November and a gala in December. Events and buzz parties is how L’Afropolitan is building our reputation and cliental. We’re in the midst of a building season.

AA: How do you manage your time and make sure that you’re doing well in school while planning events, attending events and catering to clients?

SN: It’s all about prioritizing. School definitely comes first especially because I’m graduating in December. I make sure nothing is interfering with my classes and the time I need to study and do my homework. I’m married to my planner. I make sure to never overbook myself. I make sure I have more than enough time to be involved in school, my business and extra curricular activities. Also, I give hours per day to myself to work for my clients. During my day there’s always a “To Do List” where I have emails to send, phone conferences etc. and I dedicate at least three hours of my day to my business. Even with my busy schedule I have to find time to sleep, I know my limits and I don’t over exert myself. If I’m tired, I’m going to sleep. Learning how to manage and balance as a young lady is important.

AA: Would you advise friends to establish a business venture together?

SN: Before you start a business with someone else, make sure you both have the same vision. If you all are on completely different paths then you’re going to have a problem. Before you start a business with your friend, you want to make sure it’s worth the risk of possibly ruining a friendship. If you think you can do it by yourself than its best to do so.

AA: What is the best career advice you’ve received and what advice would you give to aspiring publicists?

SN: The best advice I’ve gotten is from an agent at ICM (International Creative Management) he said if each day you do one thing that advances your career, at the end of the month you’ll find out that you’re so much further in your career than you were a month ago. He was saying that in reference to laziness and when we feel down and discouraged, if we still find the strength to accomplish at least one thing that can further our career. Whether its reading an article, starting a journal or anything productive, by the end of the month you’ll be so much further along. I have kept with me since the summer of 2010 and have found it to be very true and effective.

In terms of publicity, a publicist once told me that the most respected publicists always put their clients first. That advice humbled me and I’ve kept that with me when it’s time to do L’Afropolitan business. For those looking to enter publicity, you have to genuinely care about your client’s passion. Being a publicists isn’t glamorous and its not a spotlight for you, it’s a spotlight for your client so if you don’t care about pushing someone else’s dream into the forefront then you’re going to be depressed. Genuinely care about the job and your client and make it your passion to help bring your clients dreams to fruition.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

AimerAmour Correspondent Kierra Bryant recently attended AFROFUSION: Fashion Photography and Culture sponsored by L’Afropolitan PR and Special Events. Read Byant’s event review and enjoy event photos below!

“L’Afropolitan, L’Afropolitan, L’Afropolitan!” Bloggers, models, photographers and more flocked to Tabaq Bistro for “Afrofusion,” the celebration of fashion, culture, and photography hosted by Simona Noce. The afro centric event featured many creative artists who handcrafted their own jewelry and handbags. Featured designers of the evening included Erikka Woolridge, Areeayl Goodwin, and Khalila White.

When asked about Erikka Woolridge’s original jewelry line, Akkire, her child-hood friend, explained that since middle school, Woolridge would always mix and match things and in 2008, she finally decided to start her own company with her mother as her manager. Similarly, Areeayl Goodwin also began designing in highschool. After visiting an arts and crafts store, she decided to give jewelry making a shot. Success was imminent and along with her business partner Lauren E. Banks, “Beads Byaree” was up and running.

“Handbags,” Khalila White began, “…are a woman’s best friend. I’m inspired by nature and regular people walking down the street.” During “Afrofusion”, vendors sold original pieces that range in price from $15 to $200 depending on the different fabrics and textiles used.

Another highlight of the evening was featured guest Ivory Lawrence, one of DC’s most talented photographers. In addition to Mr. Lawrence displaying his work, he provided complimentary head shots to the guests in attendance! Afrofusion was an extreme success for vendors and event attendees. Vendors walked away with new clients and networks while guests walked away with something extra to add to their jewelry collections! -K.Bryant