This week on the freelancer interview spotlight segment, 21-year-old South London based illustrator, Jael Umerah-Makelem is featured. Commissioned by the BBC, she has some wonderfully unique illustration for her freelance brand, Nubiart.
In this interview, Jael shares her journey as a freelancer and some tips she has from her journey so far:
1. What influenced you to become a freelancer?
Initially, I just wanted to create work that made me whole. I kind of stumbled into freelancing. My illustrations were (and still are) a creative outlet. Last year, I was commissioned for the first time and I loved the freedom of just creating in a style that’s personal to me. That’s when I decided that freelancing was a style of working that really suited me.
2. How long have you been freelancing?
I’ve been officially freelancing as an illustrator for about a year now. A couple years ago, I didn’t know what freelancing was. I would pick up a couple of graphic design projects here and there but didn’t class myself as a freelancer.
3. What do you freelance as?
I’m a freelance illustrator, but I’m also a creative (art director/copywriter).
4. Do you think it’s important to have a niche?
Having a niche is important as if your product or service is trying to cater to everyone, your message and marketing won’t speak to anyone. It’s great to carve out an image of the type of customer that your business is made for and start by selling to them. Along the way, you’ll realise that your product will appeal to a market wider than your niche and that’s great.
5. What would you describe your niche with Nibiart as?
My niche is black women who have a deep-rooted love for African culture, textiles, and art. I’m making art for me, but it’s relatable to them as I am part of that niche. But my art definitely appeals to a wider audience which is absolutely amazing!
6. What resources have you found useful as a freelancer?
I’ve found Wix, Slack, and Youtube really helpful. I used Wix to create my websites and it’s really straight forward for me. Similar to MailChimp, I can create automated emails which makes my life a lot easier day today. Slack is a great app to help me stay connected when I’m working in a team. Youtube is the best resource for every and anything. I’ve learned so much- from using design software and creating a project contract, to pricing my artwork.
7. What do you like most about freelancing?
I love the freedom and flexibility. I’ve never been one for sticking to one project or thing. I’m able to experiment and work with a vast range of clients which excites me.
8. What challenges have you found with freelancing, and how do you battle through them?
My main challenge is still trying to establish that work-life balance. I’m working on sticking to my schedules and using my time wisely.
9. What tips do you have for those wanting to do freelancing or build their own business?
Take your time! There’s honestly no rush. Freelancing or starting a business is something that you have to ease yourself into. I started by working on my ideas when I got home from work and on the weekends. It does take time, dedication, and a lot of energy but if it is the right path for you then it will all be worth it- you won’t know till you try.
10. What 3 words would you describe Nubiart as?
Vibrant. Powerful. Relatable.
11. What do you like to do in your spare time?
I love to listen to music and paint. I often do both at the same time. There’s just something so relaxing and satisfying about creating things.
12. How do you find the work/ life balance being a freelancer? Do you have any tips for this area?
I’m still searching for that sweet spot. At times my work does eat into my ‘me time’, but I’m working on creating that balance. I set to-do-lists and time myself so I don’t spend unnecessary time on certain tasks.
I took an online course about increasing productivity recently and one of the tricks I learned was the ‘Pomodoro Technique’. Through this, I spend 25 minutes working and then take a 5-minute break. This has helped to keep me focused throughout the day.
13. What things can freelancers put in place to avoid late payments?
I’ve received a few late payments. I’ve even had a situation where I created the work and the client didn’t pay but still took the work. That was at a time where I didn’t know about contracts, deposits, or anything that would protect me as a creative! It doesn’t matter how small the project is, I always get the client to sign a contract! In terms of late payments, my invoice states the time period in which the client must send the final fee. I don’t release files until the project is completed. If the payment is late, I send a little friendly reminder and they usually respond immediately.
14. What key characteristics are needed to become a freelancer?
You definitely need to be motivated and have patience. There are times where there will be no projects coming in and your anxiety levels will increase. You just need to keep going, don’t let that put you off. I usually use that time to work on my portfolio or search for new opportunities. Whichever one you choose to do, just know that your situation is not forever.
15. What is the proudest project you have worked on?
The best project I’ve worked on has to be the Nought + Crosses illustrations for the BBC. I honestly felt like that project was created for me. To watch the show and absorb the culture and infuse that into my illustrations was the best feeling ever. Where I can, I take pride in incorporating my Nigerian culture into my art and I was encouraged to put that passion into the art I produced.
16. Anything you’d like to add?
Be open to trying new things! Give freelancing a go as you never know, you might end up liking it more. It can be difficult at times but you will get through it.
Nubiart is an amazing brand with brilliant professional illustrations. Follow Nubiart on Instagram to keep updated with her latest illustrations. You can also order Jael’s designs via her website. Go show her some love and support; she is doing great things with Nubiart!
To check out last week’s freelance spotlight with UX designer Adina Pascall, check this post.
Also, if you are at the start of your freelance journey looking for guidance on how to navigate this world, I offer a Beginner Freelancer E-course to help you with this.
