March marks the start of Women’s History Month, a time to pause and reflect on women’s contributions to society. Here at Coal Creative, we are grateful to have three amazing women on our team. In honor of Women’s History Month, we sat down with them to discuss their journeys to Coal Creative, their inspirations, and what advice they would give to young women entering the marketing field.
Finding Their Ways to Coal Creative
Samantha, Camaryn, and Mia all joined our company at vastly different times. For Samantha, it was as a college intern right before the pandemic. Camaryn joined as a young professional at the start of COVID-19, and Mia joined just a few years ago when we were all used to video calls and working remotely.
“In the spring of 2019, I took a chance and applied to Coal Creative for my senior internship. I met with Holly and was so inspired by what she had to say. Coal Creative was a place of storytellers, where the team worked hard to paint a brighter picture of Wilkes-Barre,” Samantha says.
For Camaryn, her first connection with Coal was a little different.
“My job at Coal Creative started the way all great modern love stories do, with my then-boss sliding into my DMs,” Camaryn says, recalling the message from Holly that led to her hiring.
“It was August 4, 2020, when I got a message from Holly asking if I would be open to grabbing coffee to chat about an open position she had. I later found out that I was recommended for the position by the then-COO of the Chamber! The next week we were sitting on a park bench on Public Square and the rest is history!” Camaryn adds.
Mia’s opportunity came unexpectedly while working at Michaels.
“One day, I was working at the register and my old counselor from high school walked up to me to check out. During our catch-up conversation, I was telling her how much I was struggling to find a graphic design job in the area and she said what about Coal Creative?”
A few weeks and interviews later, Mia was hired at Coal Creative.
The Mentors That Paved the Way
As Issac Newton once said, “If I have seen further than others, it is by standing upon the shoulders of giants.” Camaryn, Mia, and Samantha are exceptionally skilled in their own rights, but each of them can point to pivotal women in their lives who have helped shape them into the people they are today.
Camaryn looks to her Aunt Sharon. “I have many mentors in my life, but someone I’ve consistently looked to for advice is my Aunt Sharon. She has always been career-driven, and it’s nice knowing she has my best interests at heart.”
For Mia, it was her illustration professor, Mel Rodgers. “When I think about my mentors along the way, I think of my illustration professor Mel Rodgers. She saw so much potential in me. That alone gave me the motivation to hone my craft and fueled my passion for graphic design.”
Samantha was guided by two influential women: Jennifer Yonkoski, her creative writing professor, and Holly. “Jennifer was the heart and soul of the English department during my time at college and I have her to thank for helping me become the creative writer I am today. When I first met Holly, I knew she was a one-of-a-kind human being. She is one of the most genuine people I have ever met. Throughout our friendship, she has inspired me to find my voice and be a better human.”
Inspired by the Team Around Them
Creativity doesn’t happen in isolation—it’s fueled by collaboration, passion, and everyday experiences.
At work, Camaryn, Mia, and Samantha all agree: it’s the team that keeps them inspired.
“It sounds corny but the truth is I am constantly inspired by the team,” Camaryn says. “The level of creativity they bring to each project is always inspiring.”
For Mia, routine plays a big role.
“At work, what inspires me is simple: starting my day with making a coffee in the morning. I am the type of person that needs routine. A routine gets me going and into the daily workflow. My amazing team also inspires me and our brainstorming sessions. We are all so creative and get so excited about so many projects.”
Outside of work, inspiration comes in many forms. Camaryn finds joy in creating a home that is unique to her and her family. Mia takes inspiration from artists on Instagram, movies, and evolving design trends. Samantha turns to nature, constantly exploring and learning from the world around her.
“I’m really inspired by nature. I love exploring and learning about the world around me,” Samantha adds.
A Piece of Advice for the Next Generation
Just as Camaryn, Mia, and Samantha had mentors who helped them along the way, they each recognize the power they have to inspire the next generation of women. Here’s what they have to say to young women:
“You belong in any room you enter. Never let anyone make you feel any less. Your thoughts and opinions are valuable!” says Camaryn.
Mia reminds aspiring creatives not to lose hope.
“Trust me, I thought I would never find a job in my field. But something is always meant for you. There is always a plan for your life. Just imagine your successful future self watching over you and your past struggles.”
Samantha offers simple but powerful wisdom.
“Stay curious, open-minded, and open-hearted. No matter how old you are, you can always learn something new.”
A Celebration of Women at Coal Creative
As we honor Women’s History Month, we celebrate the women who shape Coal Creative every day. Their journeys remind us that you never know how things will end but persistence, mentorship, and passion will always pave the way to success.
Here’s to the women who inspire us— not just this month, but all year long.