- Date
- 13 MAY 2024
- Author
- ELEONORA PIRISI
- Image by
- PROPHET MAGAZINE
- Categories
- Interviews
Prophet Magazine: a Bold Wave for Black Creatives
Drawing inspiration from the iconic Yellow Pages, Prophet Magazine emerges as a guiding light within London's vibrant black creative landscape. Founded and helmed by Jada Puliga, whose journey we explore today at Red-Eye. The platform is dedicated to spotlighting the brilliance of black creatives. It serves as an annual compendium, meticulously curating the 'who to watch' list, not merely as a directory but as a catalyst propelling artistic careers forward.
Prophet adopts a multifaceted approach in championing its selected talents. Through its print publication, intimate interviews, captivating exhibitions, pulsating parties, and exclusive encounters, the magazine amplifies diverse voices and visions that intricately weave London's cultural tapestry.
Beyond being a mere observer, Prophet actively shapes the narrative of creativity in London. Their members-only events act as hubs of connection, collaboration, and inspiration, inviting individuals to join them on a transformative journey where talent reigns supreme and creativity knows no bounds.
In the dynamic and ever-evolving creative landscape, Prophet Magazine stands as a revolutionary force. It redefines how industry professionals and enthusiasts discover and engage with the luminaries of tomorrow, guided solely by the brilliance of their craft. Welcome to the future of creative exploration.
Could you please tell us a bit about yourself? Who are you, what are your origins, and what has been your life path? Furthermore, what passions have guided you both personally and professionally up to this point?
Hi, my name is Jada Puliga, I’m 22 and the founder of Prophet Magazine, a platform for Black creatives across art, design, music, beauty, and film. Encompassed by an annual directory of my favorite 100 undiscovered London-based talents. The goal is to push these creatives into the next phase of their careers through actively engaging in promoting their work and building community through print, interviews, exhibitions, parties, exclusive dinners, and events
What was the inspiration behind the creation of Prophet, and how did the idea of focusing on London's Black Creatives come about?
Prophet was initially inspired by Yellow Pages, a directory that used to help you find whatever or whoever you needed, whether it was a plumber, electrician, or website designer. I really loved this concept, it was such a memorable part of my childhood flicking through catalogs and directories to find things… there was a real sense of achievement to it. I just want to bring the feeling of running your finger down a page back to the modern day. There's such a sense of reliability in the physical, especially print.
The idea of Prophet has since evolved from being a directory to find all the best spots and people in London to focusing on Black creatives and community. The transition happened when I noticed I naturally kept highlighting Black Creatives - I guess it feels natural to uplift and support people that look like you. I decided to take the leap about 4 months into the project and make the concept exclusive to Black creatives which has been my best decision yet.
How would you describe Prophet Magazine's DNA in three words, and what core values are at the heart of its mission?
Timeless, Supportive and Genuine.
The core values are uplifting talent, based on talent alone. We never base who we spotlight on followers or clout that concept is tired.
What is the distinctive element of Prophet's community events, which have so far been exclusively held in London? And in which upcoming countries does one hope to bring this innovative format?
I just want the community I’m building to have a space to have fun in. It’s not necessarily about networking - that happens naturally when you’ve got people with similar interests, ages and cultures in a room! The plan is to bring prophet magazine + the events to the main ‘creative capitals” NYC, Paris and Milan first and then expand from there. Stay tuned..
How do you envision Prophet Magazine's role in the ongoing evolution of the creative landscape and in supporting the diversity and inclusion of black creative communities?
I mean, I think Prophet is doing a great job (especially considering it’s only 8 months old) at creating a genuine community - to which I wouldn’t say there’s a formula to, its only works when your motive is pure and your actually invested in the community you’re trying to build.
Especially as it’s still such a young idea, how does Prophet actively engage in promoting selected talent through the various platforms and events it offers?
Hopefully, we’ll get funding soon and be able to print our first physical directory.
I’d say weekly spotlight (showcasing people's work on our social media platforms), interviews, following creatives around for the day to get insight into their processes and inspire other creatives, creating experiences such as dinners for our favorite black creatives of the quarter, parties, and panel talk she best part of Prophet is that me and the team treat it as a playground to explore new ways and ideas that we can better the community, it’s not about making money.
If you could transport Prophet Magazine readers to an imaginary or fantastical place through a work, what would this place be, and what adventures or discoveries would you want them to experience?
It would definitely be a 70s-inspired set, with afros out and leather jackets on. We’d all be on a sunny street in London, the sound system is blasting and everyone is just making friends, dancing, creating, and having a great time - No phones!
If Prophet Magazine possessed a unique voice and personality, how would you characterize it, and what messages or stories would you like it to convey to its readers?
I’d like to think Prophet’s character and personality is quite similar to mine! I would say it’s honest, outgoing and confident.
What are your perspectives for the future of the creative landscape, and how will Prophet Magazine influence and shape this future?
I would like Prophet to BE the pinnacle of creative black culture not just influence it . How I’ll get there, I’m not sure yet, but anything’s possible if you put your mind to it!
