Reflections of 2023: Navigating Change, Empowering Diversity, and Building Community, and What’s Next

“Pushing yourself to the limit is how you develop your weak points.”- Jada Pinkett Smith?

In 2023, amidst changes and challenges, I've grown into a better leader, shaped by a series of impactful experiences. From exhibiting the work of our graduates at Free Juice, aimed at amplifying underrepresented voices in the creative industry, to speaking engagements & lectures, and my time at Meta, each step has been a pivotal part of my journey that I'm proud of.

Free Juice's evolution—from a community initiative to a growing force hosting events and mentoring talented individuals—has been remarkable. With an eye toward 2024, our aim is to expand our community, supporting more mentees and fostering a collaborative alumni network, bolstered by new mentors and partners.

Behind the scenes, Free Juice's board transformed into a diverse team, forging partnerships with esteemed brands while engaging mentors from renowned institutions.

I'm grateful to have worked with one of the leading companies in tech and innovation — Meta Facebook . Thank you to Toby Kaufmann for inviting me to join the team as a photo art director for the first half of the year! Collaborating with other visual designers, directors, engineers, and product designers opened my eyes to just how much is possible in the future — and it fueled my interest in tech and WEB3 overall, which led me to AFROTECH ... which was easily top 5 best experiences of my year.

Moving into the new year, Free Juice remains a priority for me. My passion lies in community building and advocating for emerging artists, alongside a strong drive to promote self-care and wellness, particularly among creative leaders. Additionally, I'm keen on celebrating the joys of food and travel through my work. The path ahead holds promise, whether I'm diving into interior design or directing films this time next year, who knows. I am certain, however, that 2024 is going to be a good one.

To my creative friends: I’m so impressed by all of the work I’ve seen this year. I’ve witnessed so many of you bet on yourselves, and good things that have emerged from self-belief! From gallery openings, to founding independent agencies, to hosting solo exhibitions, taking (an leaving) leadership roles, to starting new companies...Boundaries were pushed this year, and I’m proud of each of and inspired by each of you. And for those of you experiencing burnout as we close the year - I see you and I feel you. Give yourself permission to Take. A. Break. You’ve earned it.

To all of my clients, managers, past, and future partners: Your belief in both me and the community we've built at Free Juice means everything. Thank you for entrusting me. I anticipate 2024 and all that it holds.

Feel free to explore these latest projects and a brief overview of this year's most memorable moments, below.

POST Work: Learning with Allison Retina Stewart

"Do the Right Thing - Social Entrepreneurship and Community Impact”, is a series of talks with innovative social entrepreneurs hosted at POST. In conversation with Kianna Ford , we spent the hour taking through community involvement, impact, inspiration, career, and managing various commitments while prioritizing giving back. It was amazing to see a packed room in my hometown with filled with creatives eager to listen, and discuss opportunities for change together. A heartfelt thank you to Carlie Zhang and the entire POST Houston & Common Desk team for graciously hosting the conversation.

Photo Booth NYC & Houston

Our venture into hosting Photo Booth events in NYC and Houston was primarily centered around granting the community access to professional photography, specifically by photographers of color. These events aimed to gauge interest in specific photo tools or areas of learning while fostering networking opportunities for up-and-coming artists to connect with industry leaders. Additionally, these gatherings showcased the work of our FJU graduates, blending creativity, culture, and gratitude for the possibilities of the industry. Free Juice proudly collaborated with photographers Steven "Sweatpants" Irby and Fred Agho this year — integral figures in their communities and beyond, generously imparting their skills to the next generation.

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During our first year of programming, our inaugural cohort received recognition from the Lucie Foundation , earning a nomination for Photography Program of the Year.

Photo Art Direction @ Meta - Spotlighting LA Creatives

Working with photographer Brittany Bravo and videographer Julia Pitch , over 100 assets were contributed to Facebook's stock and video archive. Alongside the visual systems team at Meta and Henstooth Productions, we crafted a visually diverse shoot in LA, spotlighting unique talents and casting to humanize each person.

View more from this shoot and the team, here.?

Photo Art Direction in the Classroom — California College of the Arts

Much gratitude to Shawn Sprockett for inviting me to guest lecture at the California College of the Arts in Q4. It was an incredible experience to engage with your students, discussing the nuances of photo art direction in today's digital landscape.

Cheers to the next generation of emerging photographers!

This year, I saw so many photos that took my breath away. I've been fortunate to witness an array of exceptional work—from students and up-and-coming artists, spanning from portfolio reviews at my alma mater, Parsons School of Design - The New School to being invited to be a preliminary juror at Photolucida . The talent among the next generation of photographer is truly shining brightly.

Finally, my travels led me back to a few of my favorite an beloved spots: Isla Mujeres, and Long Beach, California, where I shared cherished moments of solitude throughout the year and shot digital for the first time in a while.

I also found myself in Austin, New Jersey, and New York. Whether traveling for work or leisure, I can't wait to see which new destinations I explore next year.

Happy holidays, and wishing you all peace and joy for the new year!?

Stay in Touch: AllisonRetina.com | [email protected] | @AllisonRetina

Follow Free Juice: @FreeJuiceInc?| FreeJuice.info