Today we’d like to introduce you to Jerwayne Balentine.
Jerwayne, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I live in Chicago and I’ve been diagnosed with Muscular Dystrophy since birth. I began writing poetry at the age of 13 as a means to express myself. I was inspired by my early childhood friends who were also creatively inclined. I developed the passion to pursue music, art and poetry. I wrote my first book at the age of 16. I am now a successful owner of my own business called, J-Epic Publishing and an author of two books entitled, “Words of Knowledge” Volume One and “Looking Through The Cracks” Volume Two. My books are a collection of my poems and illustrations based on overcoming the obstacles and discriminatory challenges of persons with disabilities. Currently, I’m working on my most recent project a Limited Edition Music and Visual Arts book titled “Words of Knowledge” Volume Three with my team. We are expecting to complete this project by mid-August to September of this year 2018. My hopes is that my business gets the recognition by not only the disabled community but society as a whole to inspire and challenge the status quo of those with physical challenges. And, to financially as well as physically meet the needs of those like myself by providing some insight and stability.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Some of the challenges I’ve faced were mostly physical challenges. Not being able to physically fulfill day to day tasks like using a computer. As well as having to find the help needed to assist me in my personal life. I’ve undergone living in a rehabilitation for special needs persons. These challenges were quickly overcome by assisted technology and being surrounded by good company who’ve provided healthy environments to be able to pursue that which I inspire to do. Which I am forever grateful for.
Please tell us about J Epic Publishing.
My business is a publishing company that provides a creative outlet for those overcoming obstacles geared specifically towards persons with disabilities. I am an author, poet and musician that specializes in artistic written word. I’m most proud of my written material that others can be inspired and gain insight from with forms of artistic visuals and my practicality application to life and situations. What sets my business apart from others is the fact that, I am someone with physical limitations who carries big aspirations for myself and the disabled communities.
If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
The lessons I’ve learned along the way in my journey would be involving more people to help promote what I could have done years ago which I am now beginning to fulfill. I didn’t quite value my own gifts and talents as much as I do now which lead me to hand over a lot my work to others who didn’t see my vision.
Pricing:
- Words of Knowledge book one $15.00 on Hulu
- Words of Knowledge ( Looking Through The Cracks) $17.00 on Amazon
Contact Info:
- Address: 1950 West Roosevelt Road Chicago, IL. 60628
- Website: Under Maintenance
- Email: jerwaynebalentine3@gmail.com and jerwaynebalentine@yahoo.com
- Other: J-Epic.blogspot.com
Image Credit:
Dave Maze Master Mix Academy, Spike Rebel Music, Artfully Gifted Foundation, Julian Aparicio Kiwi Photography, Sam Donald Photo Editor
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
