Happy Tuesday people! Here in Toronto it's the first day of school after the summer and Labour Day weekend, and my kids couldn't be more excited (surprisingly). I'm glad they enjoy school though cause that's something you can't force.

Education is of course important and valued, and particularly the way I grew up where there was a huge emphasis on not only graduating, but doing so with good grades. However is a college degree necessary for someone who wants to pursue a career in the arts? Because "The arts" is a wide subject matter,  there's no "one size fits all". As I previously shared though, I used to think that any formal education of the kind was a waste of money because I was of the opinion that you learn hands-on, and you either got "it" or you don't.

Though that may be true for some professions, every profession can be honed and fine-tuned through education of some sort. You could do so through either a course, a degree, or some form of mentorship. The Art Career Project suggests taking on an apprenticeship under someone already successful as it pertains to a career in jewelry design. Although the hands-on, practise-makes-perfect approach is also a viable option.

Famous jewelry designer Shauna Neely went to school for Fashion Design & Jewelry but never finished, however she's managed to make a name for herself in Hollywood regardless, so much so that she was asked to custom design LeBron James' wife's wedding band. 

At that high level, where diamonds are involved, the jewelry industry isn't particularly accustomed to black females. However, even though it's tough and the barriers to entry may be high, Shauna has proved that it's possible. Watch her interview with Global Grind below.

You may not always have an example to look to when you're pursuing your new career, however don't let that stop you. Allow yourself to be that example to other younger girls who come after you. You can certainly be a trailblazer, if not on a larger scale, certainly in your immediate circle amongst friends and family who say it's too late and it can't be done. For the record it's never too late, and whatever your passion and purpose, it should be explored, honed, and most importantly, pursued.

Be blessed!