Meet Shekhinah B. | Executive Director | Creative Cultural Producer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Shekhinah B. and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shekhinah, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
The reality regarding fair compensation for individual artists and difficulty it presents for financial sustainability for independent creatives.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I work for a community-based nonprofit organization that increases paid opportunities for marginalized creative in the Philadelphia region. My aim is to connect directly with individual artists and educate them on their financial choices and innovative methods to pursue a creative career to sustain financially. I’m most proud of the diverse funding awards received by the organization and of course the latest book, The Art Economic Empowerment Workbook.

The organization was founded in 2010, we faced many challenges and had to pivot when necessary. The difficulties in receiving funding for Black-Led entities has become a case-study and we have had to be creative and disciplined in order to sustain and meet programming goals. The lessons we learned was to push through, even when it appears impossible. I want the world to know that smaller entities are impactful for the creative and local eco-system, it drives opportunities for workforce development and support for diverse communities, as well as programs for art enthusiasts.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would take them to the Delaware River Waterfront to experience some of the amazing programs I curate, incorporating local creatives to amplify their networks (Spruce Street Harbor Park) or (Blue Cross RiverRink). I would bring them to Love Park where the iconic Love sign is being housed to take a photo. In terms of eating out, I rarely do that, and I don’t drink. I’m probably not the best guide in terms of city experiences. I’m more of a homebody unless I’m working. LOL.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My husband Eric has been extremely supportive of my creative and entrepreneurial endeavors. I’d like to thank my dear friend Ericka Glenn, who has worked with me over the years to ensure my goals are met and improve my perspective on new approaches for programming. The Women’s Coalition for Empowerment, Inc. is an organization that supports the mission of empowering creatives and I truly believe without this institution I would not have a more welcoming base to further strategic planning for diverse creative populations.

Website: https://www.ShekhinahB.org

Instagram: https://www.Instagram.com/TheWCEInc

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thewceinc/

Twitter: https://www.Twitter.com/TheWCE

Facebook: https://www.Facebook.com/IAmShekhinahB

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/Slimgoody5

Other: https://linktr.ee/ShekhinahB

Image Credits
Michael Albany Derek Brad