Sweet FA 2020 Winner: Eboni Dixon

Eboni has helped to spread awareness of love, kindness and awareness of important topics. Posting relatable content during BLM about her mixed race heritage and speaking out about mental health and important discussions around identity. She has had many blog comments and YouTube comments of people relating to her content.

We met with Eboni to see how she feels about being a Sweet FA 2020 winner and to learn a little more about her.

How does it feel to be a Sweet FA 2020 winner?

I feel extremely honoured and grateful to be recognised amongst so many other wonderful recipients who used the lockdown so selflessly and productively.

Why did you post about these important topics?

I didn’t feel as though I was offering a service, more a window into my own experiences. And in turn, it became a cathartic moment of self-reflection for myself! It felt important to speak up when people finally wanted to listen.

Let's learn some more about you:

What do you do?

I trained as a performer and have been working in theatre and film for the past few years. I also run a blog and subsequent social media channels under @eboniivoryblog, which I started in 2016 as a creative project to keep me busy alongside auditioning and performing.

How did you become a Content Creator?

I had just finished working on a show in London and was fed up of my destiny and opportunities being in the hands of casting directors, producers, agents etc. So I started my blog as a way to feel creative autonomously. I enjoyed the community aspect of being a Content Creator and doing so, it has led me to some of the best opportunities and moments in my life!

How long have you been freelancing?

I have been a freelancer since 2014.

Why did you decide to go freelance?

The acting industry is freelance by default, so I always knew it would be a path I would go down. I have supplemented my income with payroll jobs in the past, but I am currently juggling 3 freelance roles.

What's the best thing about freelancing?

I love that no day is the same. I love being able to create and seek out opportunities. I love being able to make my own schedule and I love meeting like-minded people.

What's the hardest thing about freelancing?

As much as I love creating my own timetable, being my own boss is difficult when I am struggling with my mental health or motivation. I can find it difficult to self-motivate, especially in the winter! I also find it is easy to compare my work and journey with other people, leading to the feeling of dissatisfaction with my work. Comparison really is the thief of joy!

What's one thing no one ever told you about freelancing you wished you'd known at the beginning?

I wish I knew more about the “non-creative” elements to my job. The practical things like invoicing, contract negotiating and time management- it can feel a little hard to navigate at first. It took me a few years to understand my worth and know that turning down collaborations is okay.

How has YJ helped you as a freelancer?

I had my first paid blog post of the year through YunoJuno. It was with a big UK health and beauty retailer. YJ made the campaign smooth and easy!

Can you tell me about a project you're proud to have worked on?

I really loved working with the shoe brand TOMS this year. They are not only a great company to work for as a freelancer, but they are also dedicated to giving back to local communities around the world, dedicating a lot of their profits to deserving organisations. I was so glad to learn more about them this year.

What advice would you give to someone who wanted to become a Content Creator?

I would say, just do it! The best thing about being a Content Creator is that there is little to no investment needed to start! I started on the free platforms Instagram and Blogger, with just the camera on my phone! If you have something you want to share with the world, you should go for it!

If a client was reading this, why should they hire you?

I believe I have a unique voice that is led by my honesty and experience. As a Digital Content Creator, my aim is to connect with like-minded people through my online platforms. My focus is to inspire and create conversations with my audience through sharing my life and passions. Whether that is talking about my style, my home, the activities I get up to, or mental health. I pride myself on my high-quality content creation, with a strong focus on fashion and lifestyle photography. I love connecting with brands who align with my personal message and style.

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Meet Eboni

Eboni is an award-winning fashion, travel and lifestyle blogger, based in London, UK. She trained for 5 years as an actor and singer, and continues to work professionally within the performance industry alongside her blogging. She has cultivated a reputation for her high-quality, thorough travel content, which has led to features in Blogosphere Magazine, Look Again Magazine, the Huffington Post and many more!