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

Hi Erica, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Taking risks has been crucial in both my personal and professional life. I have always been a risk-taker, but I’m still learning to be more calculated. In the past, if something seemed like a good idea, I would dive in head first. Sometimes, this approach worked well, such as when I began photography, established a lifestyle brand, or knew when to leave a job that no longer served me. However, even in these defining moments, I had to learn the subtle, yet instinctual art of calculation to sustain my choices. For instance, I sometimes have to determine when to upgrade software and equipment for my business, even if it is beyond my budget. I’ve also had to learn to use discernment to find new work opportunities after leaving a job and how to trust others with tasks when I shift toward a new project. Practicing such risks has provided me with a sense of security and comfort when I feel nervous or anxious about taking the next step, and it’s given me the confidence to know that things will ultimately work out.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Agent of Change Culture (AOC) is a brand that promotes a positive lifestyle for creatives, athletes, and individuals seeking personal and community-level transformation. Our mission is to serve others and be recognized as a group of change-makers in the urban fashion industry. Our year-long project of highlighting and promoting Agents of Change in Memphis and surrounding areas came to an end during the Fall of 2023. It was a challenging journey, and we had to adjust and improvise along the way, especially with a limited team. However, I want to express my immense gratitude to my sister Jada, who was a valuable collaborator and host throughout this project. Her amazing talent and support have been invaluable to me.

This year, we plan to release a digital resource guide listing professionals in fitness, creative disciplines, nonprofits, and community leadership. Contacts and organizations listed are encouraged to network with those associated with the directory. The general public is also welcome to download a copy and patronize the contacts found within the listing.

In the future, we plan to host diverse events to help positively transform Memphis’s urban culture.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?

As a person who values comfort, I can be selective about where I go to relax and unwind. One of my go-to spots is Shelby Farms, where I can choose from various outdoor activities such as jogging and pedal boating. They also have the beautiful “Coastal Fish Company” restaurant by the water. Another charming place I enjoy visiting is the Central Station Hotel in Downtown Memphis. It is a renovated train station and hotel with a unique lobby and bar area. Sometimes, a DJ plays music while drinks and delicious food flow. I also recommend visiting some of the local parlors in Bartlett for a relaxing massage. Lastly, if you’re looking for other great dining experiences in Memphis, check out Venice Kitchen, Restaurant Iris, and Pop’s Comfort Kitchen.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Last year, I read “The Artist’s Way” by Julia Cameron, and it is still transforming my creative life and career. This book helps readers identify what is blocking their creativity and provides ways to overcome it. One of the exercises that has been particularly helpful for me is called “Morning Pages.” Every day, I wake up at 4:00 AM and write about anything that comes to mind. While most of my pages have rants and vents, they have also helped me figure out the next steps in my career. This “stream of consciousness” approach allows me to remove all the clutter that would typically cloud my mind throughout the day, leaving more space to concentrate on my work and creativity. I highly recommend this book and practice to anyone, regardless of whether or not they are an artist. It is a game-changer that teaches us how to think better and strategize.

Website: aocculture.square.site

Instagram: instagram.com/agentofchangeculture

Facebook: facebook.com/agentofchangeculture

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@agentofchangeculture

Image Credits
Monique Harris Lauren Hutchison Courtney LeFlore Osean Bailey-Cole Amber Sherman

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