Meet Maya Symone | Multi-Medium Creative & Producer

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

Hi Maya, can you share a quote or affirmation with us?
A quote that I live by is “The highest human act is to inspire” by the late Nipsey Hussle. I love it so much that I even got it tattooed. In general, my favorite word is “inspire,” and I believe that I was put on this Earth to help others realize their potential — whether that’s a client, social media supporter or friend. I think it’s a blessing to be able to create content that not only makes me happy, but also motivates others to take risks and live in their truth.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I consider myself a “multi-medium” creative because I truly engage in a diverse range of activities! From decorating my home and making fashion accessories to producing videos for small businesses in LA, my projects stem from my interests and love for the community.

In the corporate world, I work as a content producer and marketer for a Black-owned digital media company. I develop scripts, create decks, write copy, and curate content for various brands and campaigns. Although the industry is highly saturated, I believe it was my tenacity and authenticity that helped me break through. Before my current role, I had jobs unrelated to my marketing degree and long-term goals, but I found ways to make them relevant, ultimately standing out from the competition. As a barista, I volunteered to create content and manage the company’s social media page. At a nonprofit, I produced video campaigns for policymakers and activists from a Gen Z perspective. Overall, what excites me the most is my ability to turn nothing into something. Everyone and everything has a story, and how you tell it is what sets you apart.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
As a foodie and LA native, I’m the right person to talk to (I also have plenty of videos on my TikTok documenting my favorite places in LA). First things first, we’d have to stop at Hilltop Coffee + Kitchen. Not only is it beautiful inside, but the food and drinks always blow me away. I would recommend their Matcha-chata and the caesar salad wrap. For breakfast, I would take my guest to the Serving Spoon (or Roscoe’s). If it’s a rainy day, Silverlake Ramen will definitely warm you up. Want to take a trip to Thailand? Sanamluang Cafe will satisfy those cravings every single time!

Tacos are of course everywhere in LA, but I’d recommend going to Angel’s Tijuana Tacos, especially after a Dodger’s game. If you’re looking for a place that’s aesthetic, has good drinks, and is also tasty, I’d make a reservation at Tu Madre in Silver Lake. A Korean BBQ spot that I frequent is called Jjukku Jjukku BBQ in Wilshire. The BEST cookies in LA are from Beverly Hills Cookie. And of course, my favorite vegan spot it Sage.

Something I think people should take advantage of is Eventbrite. There are tons of unique events like rooftop pilates, free plant giveaways at The Plant Chica, and candlelit yoga at Kenneth Hahn.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I wouldn’t be where I am today without my community, specifically my family and friends. I’m someone who tends to do everything independently, but over time, I learned the importance of a village. I’m grateful to have made connections with people who instill confidence in me and encourage me to keep going despite roadblocks.

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

Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mayaxsymone

Image Credits
Film photography photos (photos in pink blouse) are from @yochizzzy on Instagram