Daily Inspiration: Meet Donovan Jones

Today we’d like to introduce you to Donovan Jones.

Hi Donovan, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
After graduating from George Mason University in 2018, I was introduced to the film production world on Wonder Woman 1984 (2021) which was shooting in DC for about a month or so. Before that job was even complete, I started working jobs for Marriot, Adidas, and HGTV. Shortly after, I got to work as a staff “walkie PA” on the movie “Harriet” following the story of Harriet Tubman.

That’s the film project that changed the game for me. I went on to work over 300 PA days on projects like Showtime’s The Good Lord Bird starring Ethan Hawke, Catfish, American Ninja Warrior, Tom Clancy’s Without Remorse starring Michael B. Jordan and much more! – Now, I am working as the assistant to the executive producer on a CBS/Apple TV show called “Swagger” (NOTE: I am the Assistant to the Co-Executive/Line Producer!) which is being backed by Kevin Durant. – On top of all this, I own my own non-profit style record label called “Unity Records”, and have my own production company where I produce and direct content for local artists and businesses.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Eh, as long as you keep a positive attitude and work well with others, it can be pretty smooth. Only thing I can think of is the slow period in winter. — In the warmer months, the production work is POPPIN’, but when it starts to get cold, it gets really slow! So learning how to save and budget my money wisely was a HUGE struggle for me starting out. Also, I thought about the issues that arise when I take on too much work. I like to have my hands in multiple projects at once so it’s easy to get overwhelmed. However, it forces me to stay organized to maintain consistency.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am an independent director and producer for local artists and businesses around the DMV (DC, Maryland, VA) area. I specialize in creating concept treatments for works and bringing the right people together to make it happen. I’m known for my work on professional film sets, but also for my work creating my own projects, including a little show I call, “Cooking With Don”. I am slowly becoming a content creator not just for myself but for other people as well! I think what sets me apart is the diversity in my portfolio. I have designed websites and flyers as a graphic design artist. I’ve worked at Live Nation concerts for about three years as a production runner. I’ve worked on some huge film/tv productions. I’ve started my own record label & I’ve been creating my own content too! I’ve learned so much from what I’ve done so far and it will only strengthen my potential for the future.

How do you think about luck?
Hmm… Not sure. I think everything happens for a reason! A lot of the opportunities I have gotten were “right place at the right time” moments so I guess luck has something to do with it.

Contact Info:

• Email: donjoproductions@gmail.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_donjoo/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DJ0712

Image Credits
Both SHOT BY: JUAN PABLO VIADES aka @Juansuponatime