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

Hi Ciara, putting aside the decision to work for yourself, what other decisions were critical to your success?

Truly trusting myself and building the muscle of discernment has been cause for the wins in my life. I’ve always studied the lives of those who’ve been successful in the ways I want to be successful and while these people vary between musicians, artists, community leaders, and maternal figures-the common thread to their success has been following their own north star. Having come across a lot of advice, it’s all been helpful but I only implement what feels authentic to me.

I didn’t need to pick a niche, cater to the highest paying, or frankly be understood. The moments I would get stuck were the times I tried going the route of everyone else so rather than continuously failing at someone else’s strategy, I worked to better understand mine and built my respective skills from there.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?

Being creative always tickled the itch in my brain. I first started writing short stories in the 2nd grade and that love of storytelling evolved into a degree in Television & Film, 2 shows, freelance journalism, work as a producer, Astrology consulting, and work as a festival/event DJ.

To answer the question, a little bit of everything. I’m a proponent of the belief that all things are connected so I’ve never been afraid to be new at something. All creatives use different vehicles of expression, I just happen to switch cars a lot.

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.

It is not only a personal duty of mine but an honor to take all out-of-towners to Guahan Grill in Oceanside. I love seeing someone’s face light up when they try the Guam Bomb or really anything off their menu. Extremely kind staff and delicious food-you’re satisfied every time. If not there then we’re checking out their food truck Fried Up! I got the bulgogi fries last time and I’ve been thinking about them ever since.

Once spring and summer starts up, I try and tell anyone I can about Winyl Club which is a weekly link up in a park every Wednesday. It’s the perfect place to unwind from the work week and listen to music.

If this happens to be the weekend of The Silent Disc0 then we’re definitely hitting that. Located at The Hill Street Country Club with a vendor’s market beforehand filled with small businesses, artists, and craftspeople of all kinds. After that, there’s a silent disco with 3 different music channels so we’re spending Saturday night there because you’ll probably have the best night of your life.

After we let loose, we will then be thoughtful and productive members of society volunteering for The Community Roots Farm on Sunday. They’re a local green space that promotes the nourishment of mind and body through not just fresh produce but educational programs as well.

Lastly, if I’m showing you my hometown we definitely have to take a cruise down the strand.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I am everyone I’ve come across and loved. I’ve lived a lot of life and have been fortunate enough to have people come along and offer whatever I needed in that moment. I’ve been lucky to have a mother that supported my creative ventures and loved ones who have motivated me through the ups and downs. My shoutout goes out to my support system, my insanely creative and talented friends, and my mentors who remind me that all it takes is one person to make the impossible-possible.

Website: www.Ciaradominique.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/ciaraaathisbeatis?igshid=MWI4MTIyMDE=

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_JUjEnvPaVg

Other: https://on.soundcloud.com/8W2P6

Image Credits
Ashalyn Garner Nashelle Brown Lisa Munoz

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSocal is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.