Today we’d like to introduce you to Keyana Pratt.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I am originally from Lansing, MI my family and I moved to Houston where I attended the University of Houston. As a college student studying Public Relations, I was always looking for hands-on experience in my field. I have always been very ambitious and always had desires to work in entertainment and media.
Coming from Lansing, there was not a lot of opportunities. Growing up in a small town, it is easy to see life only as big as what is around you. I’ve heard of so many stories of people who wish they had followed their dreams but never had the opportunity or courage to make their dreams become a reality. I have always been curious about what more the world had to offer and always knew my destiny was bigger than just staying in Lansing. So, when my family decided to move to Houston after I graduated high school, it was my chance for me to go after my dreams.
Throughout my collegiate career, I interned with multiple agencies in the Houston area and even interned for a while in Atlanta, GA. While interning, I always desired to learn more and get more hands-on experience, so I decided it was time for me to create something I could call my own. So, in May of 2017, I created N.Y.A.G. Network.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road has definitely been filled with tons of bumps and turns even to this day. As a first-generation college student and being the eldest child, you kind of have to figure out life on your own. When I decided to start NYAG Network, I had no idea what I was doing but I decided to still go for it. I remember when I first launched my website, I was so nervous, I didn’t know how people would accept it and honestly if my idea would even make any sense to those viewing it.
Some obstacles I have faced along the way was having a lack of confidence, which resulted in a lack of consistency. Social media plays a major role in a lack of confidence. You scroll down the timeline and see all of these successful people that seem to have everything together and here I am really just winging it. I had no idea how to make a logo or a website and I surely had no idea of how to brand myself. I started off with my mom’s camera, my ideas and that was it but I knew it needed to be put out.
I think when creating something, even if you have no idea how to start, you should always just go for it. It’s okay if your brand doesn’t look like the next or if you don’t have all the necessary equipment right away. The biggest thing I’ve been taught is even if you’re scared to start something, do it scared! Never allow fear to get in the way of following your dreams. Having fear is probably one of the biggest stumbling blocks that will prevent you from moving forward.
Along the way, I’ve learned that everything is a process. It is so important to stay consistent and never compare yourself to others. You may not be the best writer, speaker or designer yet but the more you practice the better you will be. That is what makes your passion project authentic and unique and what makes you stand out from others, it is genuine and raw. Overall, I am learning the importance of being confident in yourself and staying consistent. If you continue to do those two things, the rest will fall together.
Even with all of the obstacles and doubts, this journey has been so rewarding and it’s a dream I will continue to fight for.
NYAG Network – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
With a desire to help others pursue their dreams, a degree in Public Relations and as a lover of all things entertainment and media, I created my own entertainment website called N.Y.A.G. (Not Your Average Girl | Guy) Network. NYAGNetwork.com is a platform that showcases men and women who display individuality and authenticity. The website includes exclusive interviews featured in The Network; recaps of the hottest events around town, and all of the latest news in entertainment, music, and fashion.
N.Y.A.G. Network tells a story of being true to who you are and following after your dreams. In a society filled with a standard way of living, it is so easy to fall under that category of being “average.” N.Y.A.G. Network is for those that want to stand out and live above the standard.
I am inspired by so many people around me and so I wanted to create a platform where I can showcase and applaud those that are taking chances and following after their dreams. One of the main reasons I created this platform is for those that don’t have the necessary exposure or support they need to be successful. I think back to my home town of Lansing, MI and think of all the talented people I know there that are doing great things in the city but because of a lack of exposure and opportunity, it is not appreciated.
My biggest goal is to inspire others, which is probably one of the things I am most proud of. Being from such a small town and moving to a city as big as Houston and being able to make a name for myself and inspire others has probably been the best part of this whole journey. Though I don’t know everything and I am still trying to figure things out along the way, but to know that I have a community of people rooting for me is what keeps me going.
I believe that’s what sets this apart to know that it is not a race or a competition but simply a platform that uplifts and promotes excellence and encourages others to just go for it.
Along my journey of creating NYAG Network, I also share my honest and transparent moments on my personal blog Keeping Up with Keyana – Keyanapratt.com – a lifestyle blog about what it is like being a 23-year-old trying to build a brand and figure out her way through life.
What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
The proudest moment I would say is just overall knowing the impact I have made in such a little time. Aside from attending different events and meeting amazing people, the best part is inspiring others. Hearing how I’ve inspired people to create their own venture and being asked to do interviews has been the greatest honor. I still feel like I don’t have everything together but to know that I can make even the slightest difference in the world is an amazing feeling.
Contact Info:
- Website: Nyagnetwork.com
- Instagram: @Nyagnetwork
- Facebook: @NyagNetwork
- Twitter: @NyagNetwork
- Other: @KeyanaPratt
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