Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Pamela Gurley.
It’s an honor to speak with you today. Why don’t you give us some details about you and your story. How did you get to where you are today?
I am a Content Strategy Expert, International Speaker, World-Renowned Best-Selling Author, and Media Journalist who understands the power of words (both verbal and written). As the Founder/CEO of Clark and Hill Enterprise and IAMDRPGURLEY and Founder/President of the Brown Girl and Brown Boy Literacy Foundation, I am on a mission to empower, grow, transform, and motivate others, as well as lead and challenge social norms and false narratives.
I have always known that there is something special about my life. I can’t imagine where else this opportunity would come from or what else will happen in store for me! When God called me two years ago after 14 years with the government, I had an awakening like no other moment before. I was given both vision and provision for what was to come. As I began writing and publishing my children’s books in 2021, I knew I wanted to connect to Black and Brown children’s social and emotional needs. I also started researching the literacy gaps in Black and Brown Children. Understanding how to connect those three things became my mission. I began to connect literacy to life and show children its power – not just in the books but also during my book signing. I chose not to have a traditional book signing. I wanted something that would give children an experience. So, I curated a small kid’s red carpet festival and added fun and educational activities.
I’m sure your success has not come easily. What challenges have you had to overcome along the way?
Anyone who has an opportunity to live out their dreams will tell there will be challenges nearly every step of the way to success. The biggest challenge as a business owner is staying true to the value of your worth. It can be easy to get caught up in the day-to-day grind and lose sight of your worth out of fear of turning down money, but it is essential to remember that your business is only as valuable as you make it. All money is not good money! It can be difficult to stay true to the value you bring to the table in the face of constant change or desperation, but it is essential to remember that your worth is not static. As long as you are committed to adding value, your business will always remain relevant and valuable.
As an author, every chapter is a struggle. There is both a challenge and a struggle when writing about yourself. You question just how much you want to put out to the world and how much you should. While I chose not to have any restrictions, I spent a great deal of time cutting chapters or writing new ones to ensure it flowed and was relevant to what I was writing about. What was most important to me was that I was honest and transparent about what I did and put it in my book.
Let’s talk about the work you do. What do you specialize in and why should someone work with you over the competition?
I wear many hats, but full-time I am the Founder/CEO of Clark and Hill Enterprise. As a Content Strategy Expert, I provide writing services to small and medium businesses – technical writing, content writing, media writing, and copywriting. Essentially, businesses can focus on running their businesses and leave the writing to my company. There are not many companies that provide business writing at the magnitude that my company does all under one roof. I also provide business and writing coaching, as well as publishing services. To be able to have written for and about so many people, businesses, websites, and brands makes me feel honored that all of my clients put their trust in my company to be a part of their content branding strategy or business development.
As a Transformational Speaker and World-Renowned Author, I understand the power of words. (both verbal and written). As the CEO and Founder of IAMDRPGURLEY and Founder/President of the Brown Girl and Brown Boy Literacy Foundation, I am on a mission to empower, grow, and motivate others, as well as lead and challenge social norms. I have spoken on both domestic and international platforms on varying topics that derive from my experience in mental health, management, business, and leadership.
What’s your best piece of advice for readers who desire to find success in their life?
No one ever said that starting your own business was going to be easy. In fact, it is probably one of the most difficult things that you will ever do. There will be times when you want to give up, but you have to push through the hardships. Remember why you started your business in the first place and keep that as your motivation. Things will get tough, but that is when you have to dig deep and find the strength to keep going. There will always be a temptation to take shortcuts, but they can cost you more in the end. It is important to invest in yourself and your business if you want it to be successful. So never give up and always keep pushing forward.
Speaking of success, what does the word mean to you?
For me, success means accomplishing my goals and achieving my full potential. It means setting my sights high and working diligently to reach them. It means being persistent in the face of obstacles and embracing challenges as opportunities for growth. Success is about more than just achieving material wealth or occupational status; it’s about leading a fulfilling and meaningful life. To me, success is personal satisfaction and a sense of accomplishment. It’s about knowing that I’ve made the most of my talents and abilities. Ultimately, success is about leading a happy and fulfilling life.
What’s next for you?
In 2023, I am hosting year three of my National Kid’s Red Carpter Book Tour and Literacy fest in Jackson, MS., Memphis, TN., Savannah, GA., and Huntsville, AL.
I have also partnered with the BAM Tour and the University of South Africa to host a TEDx salon panel on childhood literacy.
I am certain there is more in store, but I will put that news out as the time comes.
Finally, how can people connect with you if they want to learn more?
People can connect with me:
Website: https://www.clarkandhillenterprise.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamdrpgurley
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iamdrpgurley
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pgurley/
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/iamdrpgurley
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkHN7x7zdlqn0DNGJdTIMpg
Other: Personal Website: https://iamdrpgurley.com Kid’s Red Carpet IG: https://www.instagram.com/bgbbkidsredcarpet