Has your presence on Twitter and Facebook furthered your entrepreneurial mission?
Absolutely, I have been granted so many opportunities because of my presence on these platforms. I have been requested to be featured in other publications, radio interviews and an offer to broadcast Neko Cheri Live in FM format. I have also connected and worked with writers, stylists and photographers. It has been unbelievable.
Interestingly, The Tyra Bank’s show requested me to be a guest from my presence on the social web. Unfortunately, the topic of the show didn’t align with my brand, so the appearance never happened.
Social media has unquestionably been instrumental in shaping your brand, what does social media mean to Neko Cheri?
It is the core of my business, it means a lot. I am currently reading, “The Tipping Point – How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference” by Malcolm Gladwell. I believe that Facebook and the social media outlets are my tipping points. I have basically become an overnight success by captivating people’s attention in a very strategic way.[Gladwell] refers to a David and Goliath type scenario, where a huge marketing firm spent millions on an ad campaign and lost to a man who spent hundreds on the same campaign. His tipping point was that he was more in touch with people and understood the consumer better and he won a substantial contract because of it. I feel like David in the social media realm because I understand the motivations of others.
You cover love, relationship, family and society on Neko Cheri Live, what can people expect when they tune in?
People can expect real people and the truth. It’s a sophisticated and proactive forum featuring diverse topics and opinions.
What conversations would you like to see more of in African-American online publications?
I would like to see more African-American women having conversations about technology. When I am researching information, I rarely see African-American women addressing those issues. It’s a male dominated industry and I think African-American women need to open more dialogue about the topic.
The digital divide indicates African-Americans lag behind our white counterparts in technology; will you ever open conversation about African-American digital awareness on Neko Cheri Live?
I am definitely open to it. I will air all new shows in April where I can address this. I will have experts on to give people information on how to utilize the digital space to market their businesses or as a hub for information.
When I did my research for my book, I did it all on the internet. I didn’t have any experience as an author or publisher. So I look forward to having the conversation on digital awareness.
Historically, women were denied a wide range of privileges in society, how are new technologies giving women the opportunity to strengthen their voices?
New technologies are strengthening womens’ voices because they are open forums. For example, the internet is an equal opportunity space. If you have the ability, it doesn’t matter that you’re a woman. A female blogger can be an overnight success by having powerful words and being able to grab an audience.
Are digital media such as social networks, blogs, blog radio and online magazines defining today’s modern women?
Yes, digital media is defining today’s modern woman. Women using technology and being savvy enough to brand themselves, enhance their businesses or create an online persona are all examples of how technology is defining women today.
What do you consider indicators of success in your business ventures?
The growing recognition of the Neko Cheri brand is certainly an indicator of success. I have two incredibly talented interns that work with me. When they do outreach on my behalf to companies and publications people are familiar with me. I have worked extremely hard on building my brand, so the recognition is always appreciated.
What is next for Neko Cheri?
There is so much in the making. Neko Cheri Magazine will continue to improve and grow. I have had many requests for hard copies of the publication and we are exploring producing them. We are also working on a Neko Cheri Live television show. I am planning to broadcast the show on my own online channel.
Want more Behind The Click? Check out more profiles of the behind-the-scenes black media professionals fueling the ever-evolving 2.0 space.
