Today we’d like to introduce you to Marva Smith
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I am an artist, community advocate, and nonprofit development consultant operating a boutique consultancy, Marva Smith Consulting, located in Leimert Park, known as the Black Arts District in South Los Angeles. Her office is in the newly developed 4252 Crenshaw Building, the only “living and working” space in the area. She is a strong advocate for more affordable similar solutions for small business owners and creative placemaking developments that center art to energize local economies.
As a working actress and vocalist, and balances life as a Gen Xer with her multiple career realities. I enjoy projects that combine my interests, and I serve on the Board of Directors for Cakecutter Institute, the fiscal and managing nonprofit for The Compton Arts Project. The Compton Arts Project is an exciting initiative that centers art and culture in Compton and is advocating for a Cultural Arts District, public installations throughout the city, and Compton’s first-ever Arts Commission to ensure systemic and long-term change, energizing the creative economy, build a stronger community, and attract tourism.
I am also a founding Board Member for Diaspora Groceries Cares, an organization founded by actress and comedienne, Tiffany Haddish that aims to build socio-economic opportunities and promote healthy nutrition and lifestyles for residents of South LA. The project is developing a specialty store that centers BIPOC business owners and addresses food deserts.
I am passionate about community advocacy and have extensive work experience in nonprofit development and government, having worked for Representative Maxine Waters for more than twenty-five years, beginning with my volunteering in high school for Ms. Waters and learning on the job and under the guidance of the Congresswoman. That kind of mentorship is invaluable.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Life has been full of twists and turns. For the past five years, I have endured five surgeries and spent much of that time in recovery. However, as a small business owner, with the grace of God, I have worked through it. Deciding to work for herself at the risk of a steady salary took courage, but in the long run, it was best for me. Unfortunately, pursuing a music and acting career is not a good fit for a “good government job.” Often saying she gave much of her life to public service and neglected her desire to live life as an artist is a curious thing.
I have always marched to the beat of my own drum and have never married or had biological children by choice. Having raised other peoples’ kids and ran a youth center for many years I always say that I gave at the office. I refer to this leg of my journey as the “grand finale” and it is about doing whatever I want and whatever brings me joy.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I finally recorded my first EP. I have appeared in more than fifteen stage plays and three films. I am just getting started. In September, I am recording an acoustic performance at the Barbara Morrison Performing Arts Center in Leimert Park with renown guitarist Jacques Lesure that will be released on my music YouTube Channel. I am also launching The Everyday Activist with Marve on YouTube, which features the stories of community advocates and activists.
The late Barbara Morrison, my mama in the business, encouraged me to sing professionally. She mentored me and convinced me that I was talented. Brandi Burks, a young woman playwright, found me on a barstool and cast me in my first play. I had just left the hospital, having visited my father, who did not have long to live. She was a gift that kept on giving. She believed that I could act before I did.
How do you define success?
I find success in many ways, small and large. I count them all. Helping others has always been my passion, and it comes naturally to me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.allthingsmarva.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marvasmithconsulting/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marvasmithconsulting/
- Twitter: https://x.com/allthingsmarva
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@allthingsmarva
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/marvasmithmusic-1
- Other: https://www.thecomptonartsproject.org/
