Meet Shalia Watts | Photographer, Marketer & Videographer

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

Hi Shalia, what’s your definition for success?
Success is a deeply personal concept, and there’s no one-size-fits-all definition. However, for me, it’s when the mission, project, or goal is complete when myself and the client are happy. When I learn something new and when the challenge was actually more of a victory. Success is not a one-stop shop, it continues through the ups and downs. Simply, success for me is an achievement completed.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Hailing from Queens, New York! but now living in Atlanta, GA. I am a seasoned professional with nearly 10 years of experience in digital content, coordination, campaign management, and design, I am passionate about capturing and creating memorable moments through my work. In 2011, I graduated from The Virginia State University in Petersburg, VA with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Marketing. Since then, I have had the pleasure of working with a diverse set of people, industries, marketing agencies, and brands. My area of specialization is in media and campaigns, and I have received recognition from celebrities, NBC, Voyage ATL Magazine, and other publications for my work. Passion and perseverance are what brought me to where I am today. Despite challenges, I’ve learn to adapt and keep going, always. I have been fortunate enough to have my work take me around the world and meet incredible people. My goal is to continue to grow and expand into new successful avenues in business. In 2014, I founded WHATSGRIT? after going through a hardship. During that time, I read and watched a lot of TED talks and came across “Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance” by Angela Duckworth. This book introduced me to the concept of grit, which is a combination of passion and perseverance. It’s about moving in a direction with consistency and endurance, like having a clear inner compass that guides all your decisions and actions. I dedicated this concept in to my business, promising to instill that grit in myself and the people I work with. Hence, the name WHATSGRIT? was born. Believe. Create. Execute! is my motto, and I strive to live by it every day.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Here in Atlanta, there are so many great and fun things to do.

Brunches to start the day with a great meal. I would go to Toast on Lenox or Breakfast at Barneys.

We then can visit the MODA and the High Museum, both always have great exhibits and down Peachtree for a nice sweet snack I would take them to Cafe Intermezzo.

If the NBA is in season, a HAWKS game is a must! I also love 26 Thai, the best lobster, shrimp, and crab fried rice + don’t forget to check out one of the rooftop restaurants or Jackson Street Bridge for amazing views!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I couldn’t be more thankful for the love and encouragement from my family and friends. They always speak many words of encouragement, they point out the strength and success of my endeavors.

Website: https://www.whatsgrit.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatsgrit/

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/shalia-t-v-watts

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WHATSGRITDOTCOM

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@WHATSGRIT

Image Credits
all photos submitted are Shalia Watts – WHATSGRIT? and taken by me.