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

Hi Nyhr.a, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?

I started Paryah Publishing House because I wanted to create a unique space to express myself freely, artistically, and authentically. Self-publishing my work through my own company was more appealing to me than seeking a traditional publishing deal for many reasons, including the importance of having complete creative control over my work. Additionally, I feel that art in all its forms is intuitive and unique. For something to truly be art, it must remain true to the artist’s vision. It must not be tainted by outside influence or by those who don’t understand it and want to change it to mimic current trends because they feel it would be more marketable. I truly believe that the artist’s individuality and eccentricities make it beautiful and original, and that alone will help it garner profit and support.

A publisher risks losing these amazing benefits by ignoring the writer’s vision. And to be clear, I’m not saying that all traditional publishers are terrible or guilty of not being supportive. However, I created my company with an unconventional approach in mind because I wanted to do this publishing thing my way! With complete control, I can protect my work and vision, release art however I want, and avoid handing the bulk of my profit over to an entity that had nothing to do with what I created. I hope to open Paryah Publishing House to other writers, authors, and creatives one day. And when I do, it will be with the goal of producing original uncommercialized works that remain marketable and faithful to the creator’s intent.

Incidentally, I’ve spent much of my writing and communications career conveying the missions and visions of leaders and organizations. I’ve been very blessed to do so. However, being an entrepreneur has allowed me to flex my muscles and skills in ways that a traditional nine-to-five job doesn’t allow. In addition, entrepreneurship enables me to be my own boss, make my own rules, and do something that hasn’t been done before. Also, it’s an excellent way for me to build generational wealth and a legacy that is sure to make my family proud.

Pablo Picasso said: “Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow.” My answer is by remaining true to who you are, being fearless, exploring and acting on your imagination, and being curious – for curiosity is the beginning of all things. I am happy to say that I am very excited to see where this journey of entrepreneurship will take me, and I look forward with optimism to the road ahead.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?

I am a communications professional, humanitarian, and public servant. I am deeply committed to women’s rights and empowerment, public service, and ensuring a better quality of living for all people. I have worked in the nonprofit and public sectors throughout my career, providing elected officials and leading organizations with public relations and communications support. This support has ranged from speechwriting to writing the Key to the City to managing their social media platforms and so much more. In addition, I have had the honor of working under Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms and Mayor Kasim Reed, to name a few.

One thing I’m most proud of, is the fact that I’ve accomplished so much in my career before the age of 30. Although I have so much more to do, I have had the privilege of sitting in rooms and at tables traditionally reserved for people much older than me. My first opportunity to truly step into the work I am doing today is because of Mayor Kasim Reid. One day, he opened the City of Atlanta’s Communications Department’s doors to a few brilliant millennials (I was one of them), and the rest was history. It was a very rare and invaluable opportunity – one I feel has positively impacted my life forever. I grew so much, both personally and professionally. Without that experience, I honestly wouldn’t be where I am today. So, I am forever grateful to him for the opportunity!

If I could share a lesson I’ve learned along the way, it would be the importance of being fearless and taking risks. In this case, the thought of working for an elected official was fascinating but also intimidating because I had never done it before. However, it was always something I wanted to do. I almost let fear scare me out of applying for the position! I stared at the job ad for days before finally submitting my application. I recall being in my head and sharing that I didn’t feel qualified with my mother. She encouraged me to go for it, and I did. Sometimes, a gentle nudge or push from others can help set us along our paths, especially from those who see what we tend to overlook in ourselves due to overthinking.

I’ve covered so much, but I want to end with this. I want the world to know that my brand is a work in progress, and my story is still being written. Once my empire is built, and once my story is told, it will be one that they will grow to love, support, appreciate, and never forget!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Atlanta is filled with so many amazing places – some, I’m sure I have yet to discover. I’m probably one of the worst tour guides ever, but I would recommend Blue in Buckhead on a Friday night. Maybe visit the BeltLine for a ride or walk on one of its trails and grab some food from Krog Street Market nearby on Saturday. Sunday, I would recommend the Woodruff Art Center to further connect with some of Atlanta’s art and culture.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?

My mom! Her unconditional love, encouragement, and support have nurtured me and empowered me throughout my journey. She has always supported my ideas, ambitions, and dreams; and pushed me to follow all of them. She was the first person to instill in me the importance of expressing myself and never being afraid to use my voice or say what’s on my mind. She has been there every step of the way and has sacrificed so much to help get me to where I am and where I’m going.

I’ve always believed in myself and my power to turn my goals into reality. However, if there was ever a moment of doubt in my mind – due to impatience or worry – she has always been there to wash it away. There is nothing like a mother’s love, and I am so thankful for her support and example. So, major shoutout to my mom!

Instagram: @Nyhr.a

Twitter: @Nyhr_a

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nyhr.aofficial/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCU6WVszBZhmmdCj9A99mb2g

Other: Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Thgts-Nyhr/dp/0578801884/ref=sr_1_9?crid=1573J2RS09J0U&keywords=nyhr.a&qid=1647228747&sprefix=nyhr.a%2Caps%2C397&sr=8-9 Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/thgts-nyhra/1137885357?ean=9780578801889

Image Credits
Nyhr.a

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