DeAnna Brown

I attribute my success first to my faith in God and my willingness to keep moving forward, even when I could not see the entire path ahead. I have learned that success is not always about arriving where you planned. Sometimes it is having the courage to keep going when the plan changes.

I also attribute my success to remaining authentic to who I am, continuing to learn, and using what I have been given to create opportunities for others. Throughout my journey, I have faced setbacks, changes, and seasons when I had to begin again, but I never stopped believing that my gifts had purpose.

Most importantly, I believe success is not measured only by awards or accomplishments, but by impact. If something I create, teach, or share helps another person recognize their gifts, believe in their dreams, or take one more step toward their purpose, then I have been successful. That is what Forward Progress means to me, continuing to move toward purpose at every age and in every season.

The best career advice I’ve ever received is, “Go as far as you can see. When you get there, you’ll be able to see further.” I have carried those words with me throughout my career because they remind me that I do not have to have everything figured out before I begin.

So many opportunities in my life came because I was willing to take the next step with what I had, learn along the way, and trust that the next direction would become clearer. That advice has taught me not to allow fear, age, circumstances, or not knowing the entire plan to keep me from moving forward. Sometimes you just have to start, and when you get there, you’ll be able to see what’s next.

My advice to young women entering this industry is to learn your craft, know your worth, and never be afraid to create your own opportunities. Don’t wait for someone to discover you or give you permission to use your gifts. If the door doesn’t open, sometimes you have to build your own door.

Be teachable, dependable, and willing to do the work. Build genuine relationships, protect your reputation, and remember that how you treat people matters just as much as your talent.

Most importantly, don’t compare your journey to someone else’s timeline. There is room for your voice, your story, and your unique way of creating. Keep learning, keep showing up, and keep making Forward Progress.

One of the biggest challenges in the arts right now is funding. There are so many talented artists and great programs doing meaningful work, but without consistent funding, it can be difficult to keep that work going and create paid opportunities for artists.

At the same time, technology and digital media have created incredible opportunities. Artists no longer have to wait for someone to give them permission to create or share their work. We have more tools than ever to tell our own stories, reach our own audiences, and create our own opportunities. The key is learning how to use those tools while staying authentic to who you are.

Faith, authenticity, creativity, and community are at the center of both my work and my personal life. My faith keeps me grounded and reminds me that my gifts have a purpose. I believe in being true to who you are, treating people with respect, and using what you have been given to help others along the way.

For me, success means very little if I cannot share what I’ve learned, create opportunities for others, and leave something meaningful behind. I want the work I do and the life I live to reflect purpose, service, and love.