On Oct. 15, 2024, comedian, entrepreneur, and social media influencer B. Simone, also known as Braelyn Simone, captivated the audience at Johnson C. Smith University with an empowering message. The event, part of the Lyceum Engagement Series, was hosted by GRAMMY award-winning entertainment executive Amir Windom alongside JCSU alumna Michelle Martin.
B. Simone took center stage in the Gambrell Auditorium and connected with the diverse crowd of students, faculty, staff, alums, and community members. “I built a brand on authenticity. I built a brand on being myself,” she said.
With over 6 million followers on social media and a successful career highlighted by appearances on MTV’s “Wild ‘N Out” and ownership of B. Simone Beauty, the entertainer shared personal anecdotes and life lessons. Her primary message to JCSU students is to step outside their comfort zones and take educated risks in their professional journeys.
“This is the perfect age for you to try stuff,” B. Simone advised, addressing aspiring podcasters and budding entrepreneurs in the room. Encouraging them to confront their fears, she emphasized the importance of testing new waters across various fields, including social media, fashion, and music production.
Q&A with B. Simone
JCSU student moderator Melanie Wright ’25 further enriched the discussion, posing insightful questions to uncover the secrets behind B. Simone’s success. One exchange focused on the necessity of discernment in navigating one’s environment. “You have to put yourself first. You have to put some things aside so you can recover,” B. Simone urged. She underlined the importance of self-care and avoiding the trap of comparisons with others, encouraging students to keep their focus on their unique visions.
Wright, a social work major, also inquired about what motivates B. Simone to keep pushing forward. “Your friends either believe in you, or they are Debbie-downers. I am super fulfilled by what I do,” she replied.
Emphasizing financial literacy, B. Simone shared advice she wished she had received at 21. “Investments. I am just understanding the work of investments. Build your credit and put money aside for investments,” she explained.
