Black History Maker: Iesha Paul

Q. In your own words, what does it mean to be a black history maker?

A.  A Black History Maker is someone who is putting effort toward leaving a profound legacy and paving a way for others to follow. 

Q. Do you have any affiliation with NBPRS? Are you a member? Have you ever held a leadership position?

A. I am currently not a member, but I have attended numerous NBPRS Detroit events in the past. 

Q. Tell me about the first time you worked on your dream project or client.

A. The first time I worked on my dream project was with one of my favorite clients, Anteel Tequila, which is one of the first tequila brands to be co-owned by a Black woman. With this client, I’ve been able to gain experience in securing highly sought-after media opportunities such as Essence, Rolling Out Magazine, iHeartRadio, and more. 

Q. Tell me about your career in communications. Where did you start? Where are you today?

A.  My career in public relations kicked off while I was attending graduate school at Northwestern University. While living in Chicago I gained experience with multiple public affairs agencies. Once I returned to Detroit, I continued working with a global agency until I was motivated to start up my own in 2017, which I still manage today.

Q. How has NBPRS contributed to your career? Why is it important that POC join?

A. NBPRS has contributed to my career locally because I’ve been able to gain connections with other Black communicators in the Metro Detroit areas and foster relationships with media contacts that I wouldn’t have been able to meet otherwise. 

Q. What advice do you have for students and aspiring communications professionals?

A. Anyone aspiring to work in the communications industry should continue to try new things because it helps you figure out what you don’t like. Always stay on top of trends and how they are shaping our line of work. Lastly, never give up. 

Q. How do you plan to continue to make history and strides in the industry as a whole?

A. I plan to continue making history by gaining and maintaining a clientele that will help me expand my agency and work with more women and people of color that have a passion for public relations.

To learn more about Iesha and her work in the industry visit www.impublicrelations.com and stay connected on social @impublicrelationsbranding and @ieshamitchellpr.