DETROIT’S SOCIAL GEM IS CURATING A DIGITAL EVENT COMMUNITY TO SUPPORT ENTREPRENEURS AND CREATIVES IMPACTED BY COVID-19
By Ayana Bryant-Weekes
Well, we’re on day whatever of quarantine and you’re either basking in the solace of mandated isolation or counting down the days until we’re reunited with the outdoors and get on with our (new) normal lives. Since we’re actively social distancing, being connected by 6 degrees of separation has taken on a whole new meaning. As a result of this abrupt pause in our lives, individuals and brands alike are getting creative and finding (COVID-19 compliant) ways to stay connected!
For some, staying connected is vital to the survival and recovery of their brand, business, or entrepreneurial endeavor. Amber Lewis, the head of digital and social media for The City of Detroit aka The Playlist Princess, is using her social savvy to “...foster community online while we practice social distancing and...to aid in economic recovery for [those] that are impacted by self-quarantine...”
Amber started “Issa IG Tour” when some of her own hosting gigs were canceled due to COVID -19. With her background in digital media she saw this as “...an opportunity for brands and event curators to innovate the digital space.” Inspired by social distancing, “Issa IG Tour” uses Instagram Live to feature different entrepreneurs who are impacted by the quarantine, encouraging members of the digital community to support the economic recovery of each “host” via their pinned CashTag during the live event, as well as corporate sponsorship with global brands like Bumble to assist in paying tour hosts.
What started as a week long Instagram Live turnup session hosted by Amber’s DJ persona; The Playlist Princess, led into the “Quarantine Kickbacak” hosted by The Queen of Detroit Events, a self-care tour featuring a healing music session hosted by Detroit artist, Charity, who soulfully serenaded the online audience with hits from her debut album, Tenderheaded. Also a meditation session hosted by Fitness Enthusiast Neeko Arrion and Creative Life-Empowerment Coach, Lamria Grace, a yoga session hosted by Lauren J. Williams, and a self care session hosted by Detroit’s Handy Woman, Trice Clark.
This carefully curated digital tour is an inspiration and a lesson in creating community. Despite seemingly forced circumstances we’ve collectively and safely attended concerts, dance classes, workout sessions and more from the comfort of our own couches while still supporting the creatives who fill our lives with special experiences.
Follow Amber on Instagram and Twitter: @socialinthecity