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

Hi Joce, let’s talk legacy – what do you want yours to be?
I want people to remember that I was authentic and showcased the magic of Black women. For some time after moving to Denver from Memphis, I felt intimidated by the predominantly white spaces I entered. Black women have to continuously adapt to every single space they walk into because it wasn’t created with us in mind. I have dedicated my work and writing to highlighting Black women and how we, despite many circumstances, still show up in this world like no other. I want that to be my legacy.

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
I believe my style of writing sets me a part from others. I write with intention, conviction, and authenticity. I want people to read my work and feel like I am sitting next to them having a beautiful conversation. I am most excited about where this journey is taking me. I have to remind myself daily that I am living the life I prayed for five years ago. I am actively chasing my dreams and I am proud of myself for doing the work. It took many sleepless nights, countless breakdowns, lots of no’s, and unconstructive feedback for me to feel confident in my writing. I wouldn’t change a thing about where I’ve been because it made up every part of my being. And my being shows up more profoundly now because of it. I want the world to know that Joce Blake is a storyteller determined to make a difference.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
As a southern belle, I love food. Most of the trip would consist of eating at some of my favorite restaurants like Four Friends Kitchen, Linger, Welton St. Cafe, Uncle and The Corner Office. We would also visit Garden of the Gods and The Ice Castles to really get the Colorado Experience. The trip would have to include Five Points because it is my favorite neighborhood in Denver with its rich Black history.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My shoutout goes to my many tribes of Black women who hype me up, tell me when I’m wrong, keep me motivated and encourage me to vibrate at my highest frequency. Even when I can’t see it, they see the best in me and I am eternally grateful for that type of love.

Website: joceblake.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joce_blake/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jocelyn-blake-a408224b/

Image Credits
Noah Berg Photography Marto Skovro Curated by Charlie Photography

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutColorado is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.