My Marketing Journey…
I was 10 years old…
…when my marketing journey began. I know it sounds crazy: my parents thought the same. Growing up, Minecraft was my playground of creativity. I idolised YouTubers who ran their own Minecraft servers, coding custom content akin to in-app purchases. These creators leveraged their YouTube platforms to promote their servers, all whilst having fun with friends.
So, that’s exactly what I did…
…and this is how I fell in love with marketing. As soon as my homework was done, it was recording and coding time. I’d sometimes spend weeks developing one small feature, but the excitement of announcing it to my growing YouTube channel was unmatched. I’d make videos on other servers, follow trends to grow my audience, and I eventually built my own community of over 2,500 subcribers, whilst having fun and earning some pocket money.
My passion was immeasurable…
…and the experience was invaluable. Each new server update, video, and subscriber taught me fundamental marketing principles: understanding my audience, creating engaging content, and utilising social media to its fullest potential. Investing in my server and videos showed me the direct impact of effective marketing, and this hands-on experience instilled a deep understanding and passion for the field that no textbook could ever provide.
Then I started college…
…where I chose to study media studies, business, and psychology. These subjects not only fascinated me but also provided deeper insights into the marketing world I was already so passionate about. Friends and family often questioned this combination, but to me, the path was clear. Each course taught me lessons that supported my developing career.
It was during this time…
…that I began working as a freelance marketer. I took on real clients and challenges, using my early experiences and ongoing education to help businesses enhance their presence and achieve marketing goals. Working closely with small businesses and social enterprises, I applied my understanding of marketing to real-world scenarios. The thrill and pride of playing a crucial role in client's success confirmed to me: this is where my true passion lies.
A notable example of this…
…is my work with StopTopps, my first client at 16 years old. What was once a small local business is now a nationally recognised brand within the drinks industry, with whom I still work to this day. Working with StopTopps has been one of the most valuable experiences of my career to date, leading to opportunities such as writing press releases for the BBC, creating presentations displayed in Westminster, and collaborating on campaigns with brands such as LADbible and Malibu.
…with various clients, all whilst continuing my education. After achieving a Distinction*, A* and A at college, I set my sights on studying Marketing and Management with Psychology BSc (Hons) at the University of Sussex. I have now been at Sussex for two years and am on track to achieve a First Class Honours. This has been priceless in both my personal and professional development - enhancing my understanding of management strategies, marketing principles, and psychological insights.
Since then, I have worked…
Looking back…
…I realise that my journey in Minecraft was more than just a hobby; it was the foundation of my career in marketing. The lessons I learnt about creativity, perseverance, and community building have shaped who I am today. Now, as I continue pursuing education and professional opportunities in marketing, I carry with me the same enthusiasm and innovative spirit that drove 10-year-old Lola. The landscape may have changed, but the principles remain the same: understand your audience, deliver value, and always be ready to adapt and grow.
Today…
…I am transforming my freelance work into managing my own business, Gleam Marketing. Whilst the challenges of running a business are daunting, the overwhelming feeling is one of excitement. I am taking a year away from my studies to expand my professional portfolio full-time and look forward to chasing all opportunities awaiting me. Supporting businesses in their success is a feeling like no other, and I am excited to provide a variety of high-quality services to businesses like yours.