Meet Jamila Surles-Walker | Serial Business Owner, Marketing and Media Strategist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jamila Surles-Walker and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jamila, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
I think that it is important to take risks because you are not aware of your potential until you do things outside of your comfort zone. Personally, I have struggled with public speaking but I chose to step out and become a media personality because of my awareness of the benefits that small and minority owned businesses gain when we can highlight their stories in the media. I also decided to start a delivery business, EpicFabulosity, for hair and beauty products because I knew that it could provide a way for the disabled community or those who lack transportation to maintain their self-care needs and provide convenience to those who need their products the same-day. As a result, we have seen growth in both of these endeavors because they fulfill the marketing needs for the companies that we service and partner with. Everybody wins in the situation and it truly makes me happy to know that we can be involved in such a positive way.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My business is Epic Entourage, LLC and we are a multi-media company who provides marketing services such as content creation, social media marketing, television and media interviews, and public relations. What sets us apart is that we help business owners and creatives to realize their dream of working with influencers, doing media interviews, and have a show on our Epic Entourage TV Network that is on Roku. We are most proud and excited to have a TV Network and be connected with some leaders in our industry. I got where I am today through my faith in God and by making sure that we were providing services that we knew could make a difference in the businesses we serve. It was not easy by any means because like any other business, we have had ups and downs and we have to stay abreast of the nuances of social media and technology which is constantly growing and changing. We also have EpicFabulosity, that is a same-day delivery service for hair, haircare, cosmetic, and beauty supplies. We partner beauty suppliers around the nation to have products delivered to your home, The lessons I have learned is that when you are stepping out to do things that are different, not everyone will understand. You have to be ok with not being understood, especially when you have a vision that does not seem to be the most conventional. I want the world to know that this was a dream that turned into a vision. There will be times when you don’t realize you have an impact but you do. No step toward your dream is small, there is value in every move you make, but the goal is to keep moving because you will see results, not immediately, but with persistence you will.

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 am in Chattanooga, TN. I would start with a nice dinner at a restaurant called Stir. They have good choices for American food, vegetarians, and vegans. The next day, we would go to River Park for a nice concert or to walk along the river or picnic. The following day we will go to the Aquarium to see some beautiful aquatic animals. We would then go to the Hamilton Place Mall for some shopping and drinks and a restaurant there. I would take them to a networking event at the Hunter Museum and to see Art in the Art District next to it. To sum it up, I would take them on a cruise on the Southern Belle Riverboat down the Tennessee River and enjoy live music, food, and drinks.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to shout-out my Husband, children, and family for supporting me through my journey and pursuit of my endeavors. Ms. JD Richards is a mentor that I look up to and value her spiritual guidance, prayers, and inspiration. I also want to thank Ms. Sharyn Steele for her continuous support of my business and referrals. Nikki Rich, an ambassador with OWN Network has extended her knowledge of the industry and allowed us the opportunity to appear on her show. The Black Business directory headed by Mr. Brian Morse has also played an intricate role in my ability to network and meet some awesome individuals who have appeared on my show, The Jamila Show, as well as partnerships that I am grateful for in other business ventures. We have been blessed to have some awesome individuals in our path.

Website: www.epicentourage.online

Instagram: instagram.com/epicentourage

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/epicentourage

Twitter: https://twitter.com/epic_entourage

Facebook: facebook.com/epicentouragellc

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/epicentouragellc

Other: www.epicfabulosity.com

Image Credits
Gholston Photography The Nikki Rich Show