Meet Jillian Bullock: Award Winning Filmmaker and Mental Health Advocate

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

Hi Jillian, do you have a favorite quote or affirmation?
“Your past doesn’t dictate what your future will be.”

This is my quote and I came up with it years ago when my memoir HERE I STAND was published. Considering the horrific experiences I had to deal with growing up including rape, homelessness, drug addiction, prostitution, and teenage motherhood, I shouldn’t be where I am today as an award winning filmmaker, author, transformation speaker, mind-body-spirit coach, and fitness expert. Many times when people look at someone’s past they are so quick to dismiss them as a loser, but I am living proof that one’s past doesn’t reflect that at all. I was able to transform my life from a victim to a victor and I want other people who are going through hardships, challenges and obstacles to understand they can turn their lives around as well.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am the CEO of Jillian Bullock Enterprises, LLC, a film and entertainment production company based in PA. I got my start in 1991, after I graduated from La Salle University, and got an internship on the set of Spike Lee’s movie “Malcolm X.” From there I have worked on my own and other people’s projects as a writer, director, producer, actress, and fight choreographer. I got that last title because I have two black belts, one in Tae Kwon Do and the other in Wing Chun. Now, I train in MMA and boxing.

I decided right from the beginning that I would write, direct and produce my own films so I could maintain control over my content and also I didn’t want to wait for someone to hire me. That’s what makes me different. I create what I want to see and I’m the boss. I don’t have to answer to anyone else.

My company produces movies, TV shows and content that empowers, educates and entertains audiences.

I’m also proud that I tackle tough subject matters in my projects, e.g. racism, sexual assault, mental illness, drug addiction. I want people to look at my movies and come away not only being entertained, but to get them talking.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would take her to the King of Prussia mall, which is one of the biggest malls in the country. Great place to shop and eat. For high class dining, we’d go to the Moshulu, which is a restaurant on a ship. Of course, anyone who visits this town must get a Philly cheesesteak in South Philly, which we’re famous for. Other great attractions would be the Philadelphia Museum of Art, The Independence National Historical Park, The Franklin Institute, The Liberty Bell Center and take a tour of the city with the Philadelphia Horse Drawn Carriage ride.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My producing partner, Delayne Powe, has been my ride or die friend and producer since I started my journey as a filmmaker 25 years old. She has been the only person who has seen me at my best and at my lowest and stuck in there with not only financial support at times, but always gives me words of encouragement when I feel like I want to quit. The movie industry is a tough business for anyone, but especially for an African-American woman. Nevertheless, Delayne has faith in my ability as a writer, director and producer.

Website: www.jbullockenterprises.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jillian.bullock.5/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillian-bullock-08317b8/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JillianBullock

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jillian.bullock.5

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoTLp-Dsjl3sYzUlS8wsEjQ