Becoming An Advocate for Black Creatives
“I Am African & I Can” is a women’s empowerment blog that highlights stories of black women’s struggles and success.
Visit her YOUTUBE, INSTAGRAM, FACEBOOK
By Hadiatou Wann | 01/11/2019
While in law school, Desiree Talley’s Caucasian professor asked a Caucasian-dominant class to blurt out what came to mind when they thought of Caucasians versus People of Color. The majority made only negative remarks about People of Color. She regretted not speaking up for her race, but since made it a duty to stand up for black people whenever an occasion arises.
Everyone’s path to becoming a lawyer is not identical. Talley’s interest in becoming a lawyer surfaced when she watched Judge Judy and Joan from “Girlfriends.” She enjoyed the entertainment aspect of it, but wanted to work from behind the scenes.
After studying for seven years to become a lawyer, and taking some time off, she landed a good legal job in entertainment.
It took Talley five years to get the job she wanted. Once she got the job, she still felt something was missing. she decided to leave and start her own company because she wasn’t being handed the projects she desired to work on or getting the recognition she deserved.
In August 2018, after doing independent learning and saving up, Talley took a leap of faith and launched Talley Law Group PLLC. The boutique entertainment law firm is based in New York City and specializes in protecting the rights of creatives.
“My family was surprised that I left a good paying job, but now they see how happy I am,” Talley explained.
Talley keeps herself afloat and delivers the best results for her clients by making sure she constantly learns about her business. “My goal is to make sure that I advocate for the client’s best interest,” said the lawyer.
Many have the idea that lawyers are liars. Talley rejects that. She feels lawyers “are good with words and zealously advocate for their client.”
When she is not working with clients, you can find her exploring different parts of New York or at a coffee shop observing and letting her mind rest.
Talley’s boyfriend Jamar Upshaw describes her profoundly: “Desiree is the most determined and resilient person I have ever met. Whenever she sets her mind to get something done, it will always get done. Whether it’s opening her own entertainment law practice or starting a side business, she will research everything and find a way to see her goal fulfilled. But the beautiful thing about what she does is: how she does it. Everything is done with grace, technicality, and passion. Not only is she beautiful inside and out, but everything she puts her mind to do is realized beautifully as well.”
Talley is by nature shy, but has learned the art of networking and encourages professionals to attend business seminars. She admits that when you attend networking events, “you might not meet Beyoncé, but you might run into her manager.”
Despite being afraid of failure, Talley boldly looked fear in the eye and took on the challenge. She looks forward to helping more black creatives achieve their goals, and is taking a shot at being a culture commentator.
Welcome to Talley’s World
“Success is setting small goals, continuing to grow and not stay stagnent.”
“I enjoy visiting different places. Sometimes when you’re in the same environment for a long time, you get bored and complacent.”
“I’ve always defended people more than I defended myself. And I always helped other prople despite the circumstances.”
“If you can’t do it full time, do it part time. Taking babysteps is better than not taking any steps. Sometimes you might fail, but keep going!”
Connect with Talley
Personal Instagram: desiree_talley
Website: www.talleylawgroup.net
POPLAW Website: www.poplawpodcast.com
POPLAW Instagram : poplawpodcast
Thank you for reading! Knowledge is only valuable when you share it. (1) SHARE THIS ARTICLE on your social media because it can change someone's life. There are more inspirational stories on this blog. (2) Scroll down and click NEXT to read about another person. (3) SUBSCRIBE NOW to be informed whenever a new person is featured on the blog.