Meet Ebony Hillsman: Digital Strategist and Chief Information Officer

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

Hi Ebony, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I started my own business when I realized that my expertise wasn’t what my employers required but was actually what entrepreneurs were asking for. The innovation and unique perspectives I presented didn’t seem to be appreciated.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I started my career in broadcast journalism in 2000 after graduating with a B.S. in Broadcast and a minor in Spanish from Florida A&M University. I was only a year into my television career when I landed a role at CNN. In the 10 years I spent there I saw the world and all there was to offer from the high-rise office building in downtown Atlanta. While writing and producing live news events with world-class journalists, I worked on the teams that would go on to win 2 Peabody awards and a DuPont award for excellence in journalism. Along the way, I’ve learned the hows and whys of asking the right questions and waiting for stories to tell themselves. I would like the world to know that my story is still evolving and change is coming!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I would take them on a tour of historic Atlanta, starting with my favorite part of the city, Auburn Avenue. I love the history and inspiration of Auburn Avenue because I learn something new about the Black community in Atlanta that laid the foundation making it the great city it is today. I would start with brunch at a Thumbs Up Diner, then take them on the MLK walking tour. After that, we would shift downtown to Rays on the River and shop at the Peachtree Center Mall. On each day of the week, I would show them a different part of the city, Little Five Points, AUC, Virginia Highlands. I would use my network of friends for the best brunch spots for the sake of variety and plan some cultural events around museums like the High and Fernbank.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to dedicate my success to my mother and sister who believe everything I wish for is within my reach. My mentor Gloria Weaver who always reminds me to stand up for myself and fight for my seat at the table.

Website: www.thecreativeprotocol.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/ebonyhillsman

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ebonyhillsman/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/msebony

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ebony.hillsman/

Image Credits
Headshot1 Nick Nelson Headshot 2 AO Spade, Telvin Debnam Image 3 Tinzley Bradford, Black Panther Premiere