Gabrielle Maya is an accomplished Editorial Manager and Content Writer with a diverse background in digital media, content production, and social media management. She currently serves as an Editorial Manager and Journalist for ENSPIRE Magazine, where she oversees content across a broad range of topics, including health & wellness, music, lifestyle, fashion, business, entertainment, and pop culture.
Her previous experience includes roles as the Associate Pop Culture Writer and Editor at Bookstr, where she also maintained a writing segment called “Webtoon Recs.” Additionally, Gabrielle was an editor for the entertainment and pop culture site TV Tea and a Social Media Assistant for Kiss and Tell Magazine, a health & wellness publication. She is also the Editor-in-Chief of her own online zine, Inside Voice.
Gabrielle holds a B.A. in English Creative Writing and Women’s and Gender Studies from New Jersey City University, graduating in 2021.
When did you know you wanted to be a writer? What sparked that passion for storytelling?
Gabrielle Maya: In high school, I always wanted to write. I loved reading as a child and wanted to write a book. However, when I went to college to study English creative writing, I realized that not only did I enjoy reading stories, but I also wanted to write stories about passions that I saw in the media through other people’s successes.
Your editorial journey spans pop culture, wellness, fashion, and more. How do you choose what stories to tell?
Gabrielle Maya: I follow my heart and interests. Knowing what I like makes it easier to pick what pitches I accept and write about. I am a huge advocate for female empowerment and mental health. I also love beauty and fashion for their aesthetics. Growing up, watching all kinds of television, from dramas to anime and cartoon shows, helped push my writing to be the best it could be, as it’s the things that make me pause, want to know more, and gush about. Even if I am writing something that isn’t in my wheelhouse, I can always find a perspective and angle that fascinates me. It all starts with the initial spark of interest when I read a pitch.
How has your background in Women’s and Gender Studies influenced the way you approach storytelling and journalism?
Gabrielle Maya: Women’s and Gender Studies has been a big slice in what I write about and how I write it. Being a young woman in today’s world does come with its challenges. I am all about being the hype woman and empowering others, especially women of color, queer women, and everyone in between who aren’t the ‘norm’ in society. Those stories need to be told, and I actively seek out these pieces because it’s an opportunity to showcase the many facets of a person.
What stories do you feel are still missing in mainstream media, and how do you hope to be part of bringing them to the forefront?
Gabrielle Maya: The three main stories that are often lacking in the media are those of body autonomy, vulnerability, and mental health. It’s not to say that those don’t exist; however, it is just a small puddle compared to the stream of toxicity within the media culture. Especially for youths and young adults today, there is a need for greater awareness, acceptance, and love. The content we consume shapes the mindset we have in our daily lives, both online and in real life. Here is my breakdown of my three examples:
Body autonomy to me is such an essential topic in media today due to the scrutiny of people’s bodies due to their size, appearance, or if it is outside the expectations and standards of modern society. However, body autonomy teaches us that our body is the least interesting thing about us; we are allowed to exist and just be. Having control of what a person does with their body, how they dress, take care of their body, and use it shouldn’t be anyone’s business, much less a media discussion.
Being vulnerable and airing out your insecurities shouldn’t be a topic in the media that gets shamed. Everyone has something they may be afraid of, nervous about, or feel sad about. I’d love to see people be more open about their hardships and resilience in the face of whatever they are facing. It is a great opportunity to find community and convey that you aren’t the only one, and that it is healthy to share your hardships and fears while still finding love and acceptance.
Lastly, mental health has made strides in raising awareness on social media and its importance over the years, especially when it comes to spreading the message of anti-bullying in schools. However, there is a new issue of online bullying. People of all ages are bullying online, and although social media platforms have tried to restrict nasty comments and inappropriate posts that spread hate, it is still a constant uphill battle. I hope overtime not only will we quadruple our efforts into erradicating online bullying and have different methods of addressing bullying online, I strive for a turnaround where its not toxic positivity and more accountability and educating those who online bully, may be going through a mental health crisis and uplift those and provide resources to those who are being bullied and are experience struggles with their mental health.
Is there a story you told that had a profound impact on you? If so, what story?
Gabrielle Maya: There are so many stories and interviews that have left such an impression on me. A few I can name on the top of my head are Director Jean Liu’s Short Film Corpse Fishing, where I was given a first glimpse at the short film itself, and it moved me how the representation of Asian culture and society surrounding family and poverty came into play.
Also, the article on Syreeta Butler’s practice for holistic mental health through Just B Consulting was wonderful to write regarding mental health and wellness for individuals in the music industry. Mental health and music are topics I always enjoy writing. Seeing an opportunity with both subjects combined, and knowing that Syreeta enjoyed our interview very much, made posting about it mean a lot to me.
What kind of impact do you hope your work has on readers?
Gabrielle Maya: I hope my readers feel inspired, empowered, and enthused by what I write. I want to build a community that finds joy, insight, and sparks conversation with others based on the topics I write about.
Through your various platforms, you’ve created space for various conversations. Where do you see the future of editorial and digital content heading, especially for women and marginalized voices?
Gabrielle Maya: In this social climate, now more than ever, it is time for aggression and never letting our voices waver. I see a future where all editorial and digital content is evolving and becoming faster, accessible, and creative than ever. There is still a gap in the work landscape for women and marginalized voices, but I know that there will be groups, companies, and trailblazing businesses in the industry that will focus the narrative and hold space for all kinds of women and marginalized groups to share their stories and messages through writing.
If you could give young creatives, especially women, one piece of advice for stepping into media and publishing, what would it be?
Gabrielle Maya:
- Write what you know: Start with topics that interest you and build up your writing style. This is great practice for when you write on different pitches that you may not be interested in or haven’t written before, you can find an angle to write about that brings out your passion.
- Look for writing opportunities: Soaking up knowledge is your strongest power, whether it is freelance, internships, a fellowship program, or finding a writing community. Put yourself forward with intention and seek out all opportunities that come your way. The more experience you have, the more success you will have at finding work in the media and publishing industry. Never be afraid to be outgoing and have a direct approach to what you are seeking in your writing career.
- Get your foot in the door: If you want to kickstart your career in writing, digital media, or publication, starting with an entry-level or associate position is a great way to get into the industry. Exploring different departments and career levels should be open to apply. As it is a competitive field, the goal is to get in any way you can. Working your way up
- Networking is your best friend: Finding community, making friends, and establishing professional relationships on career platforms and within the writing community is essential. Meeting people who are your seniors in the industry or those who are just starting can offer perspective and provide job opportunities and assistance when needed. Having connections can help you in the long run and future growth.
How can our readership support your work?
Gabrielle Maya: To view my work, you can visit ENSPIRE Magazine, Kiss & Tell Magazine, or Bookstr. For those interested in my freelance services, please reach out directly to me on my LinkedIn page.
