Meet Portia Bright Pittman | Entrepreneur & Award-winning Author

We had the good fortune of connecting with Portia Bright Pittman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Portia, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I started my first business which was a cleaning service at the age of 23 because I could not find a job. Having a cleaning service wasn’t what I wanted to be doing but it was what I had to do. Knowing I was at a age where I was grown enough to take care of myself I knew that sitting around not making progress wasn’t an option that I was willing to take for longterm. Later in my 30s I decided that I was going to become an Author and could not find a publisher so I started my own publishing company called Bright Books. That turned out to be one of the best decisions that I have ever made. Now one set of my books are being used to teach a curriculum in a entire school district. That showed me that you have to keep pressing beyond the limits you set for yourself to achieve a greater good.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I own a small business called Bright Books that focuses on inspiriting brighter futures for tomorrow through literacy. I have published 5 books total and hope to turn them into a short film. Additionally, we give away books and scholarships to youth but particularly at risk youth who need a little extra encouragement through life.

What set’s me apart from the rest is my testimony and passion for impacting the lives of others in a positive way.

I got to where I am today by faith and determination. After being in a relationship that turned violent and I ended up becoming a justice involved involved I was determined to not allow my failures to be the end of my story but be the wind beneath my wings to rise above the negativity and environment I was being exposed to. I was determined to be a success story that could oneday help others. I started carrying myself differently then I began attracting new friendships that meant me well. I started praying a little differently that started opening doors to opportunity that I couldn’t open alone. God has been at the center of my business and I have used biblical principles to build my business on a solid foundation.

I want the world to know that there is no love in war. We have to ban together to change our surroundings, our communities and our businesses. There is so much we can learn from one another but that can only go as far as we are willing to allow ourselves to grow. I enjoy connecting with folks and leaving them better than when I first encountered them. Not only that but its going to take all of us working together to change global warming and pollution of our planet! We have to work on being more kind to ourselves, others, and the environment. I think that’s when we will see alot changes for the better. Lastly, be who you are without the influence of others on social media. You are unique for a reason. Walk in that and own it.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friends are visiting I would roll out the red carpet per usual. We hoping on a plane and flying to Jamaica. One of the best experiences in my life was in that country. The people, the food the music, the scenery is amazing.

We will be staying at Sandals Montego Bay Resort with a beachfront Villa where everything is all inclusive. Food off the hook and drinks to make you want to whine on a Jamaican. Even though I don’t drink alcohol they could enjoy their beverage of choice while I drink the frozen daiquiri which I love. We are then going to explore the countryside by horseback riding on the beach and riding ATVs. We would conclude the week likely with a book signing business for me to ensure I can write the trip off on my taxes then visiting The Mustard Seed which is an orphanage for children in Jamaica. We would take the children supplies and spend time with them. God always remembers those who remember the forgotten. Lastly, we finishing the trip off just relaxing on the beach watching the views while getting massages and cutting up with laughter.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
God first and foremost. Had it not been for grace, mercy and the vision I would not be where I am today. I would like to recognize my Husband Reggie who has been my backbone, support system and partner in making sure I have what I need to succeed. I would also like to recognize both my Father James and Mother Delores who gave birth to me and sacrificed so much for me. Additionally, my bonus Mom Linda for always being there when I need them to help with the children so I can focus on my business endeavors. Lastly, a host of mentors and prayer warriors! Thank you! I appreciate you more than you will know but I hope you feel it through my words and actions!

Website: www.brightbooks.org

Instagram: @brightbooksclub

Facebook: Portia Bright Pittman

Youtube: @brightbooksclubtv

Other: Tiktok @brightbooksclub