I’m a social and cultural strategist who’s spent over a decade working with brands to drive meaningful cultural conversations and amplify diverse voices.
Most of my career was spent at agencies, which was a great learning experience, but the lifestyle just wasn’t sustainable for me.
Freelancing has given me the chance to build a career on my own terms
I wanted more freedom to define what success looks like for me, to work on projects that align with my values, and to create a balance that felt healthier and more fulfilling.
I’ve been freelancing for 2.5 years now, and it’s been a total game-changer.
I’ve been able to prioritise my wellbeing, work on projects I care about, and rethink the role work plays in my life.
Freelancing has given me the chance to build a career on my own terms – choosing work I’m passionate about, setting boundaries that support my wellbeing, and finding new ways to grow both personally and professionally.
It’s been a shift that’s allowed me to not just survive but thrive in my career.
Being realistic about freelancing
However, whilst freelancing is often painted as the dream set-up, but it’s so much more complex than that.
It takes time to figure things out because you’re not just doing your job – you’re running an entire business, which can feel overwhelming at first.
The positives definitely outweigh the negatives – but it’s important to be realistic about what freelancing really looks like
Growth isn’t linear either – you’ll have big wins and tough losses, sometimes in the same week.
It can be lonely, so finding your people and building a support network is a game-changer.
That said, for me, the positives definitely outweigh the negatives – but it’s important to be realistic about what freelancing really looks like.
Freelancing is the best decision I’ve made for myself, but it’s not for everyone.
Before making the leap, ask yourself: Are you okay with risk and uncertainty? How do you handle working on your own?
It’s not about discouraging people – it’s about being honest with yourself so you can go into freelancing with your eyes open.
Kiana’s top tips for freelancing
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. You don’t need to have everything figured out on day one – nobody does! A huge part of my growth has come from working with amazing collaborators, connecting with other freelancers, and leaning on my network when I needed advice or support.
Be kind to yourself. Freelancing has its share of uncertainty, tight deadlines, and tough projects, so the added pressure of being extremely hard on yourself will only make things more difficult.
Finally, let go of the fear of being perceived. When I first started posting on LinkedIn, I was nervous about what people might think, but those posts ended up leading to some amazing opportunities. Showing up for yourself is always worth it!
