Black History Month: Marcia M Spence
Next up this month is Marcia M Spence! She began her current publishing business from her bed, as a hobby to help her get through her periods of bad health. Marcia M Publishing House now has over 30 books in hand to publish this year. Her authors are from the UK, Africa and the Caribbean. Marcia is focused on building confidence and self-esteem in others and encouraging them to express themselves, to be creative and to tell their story either in the written or spoken word. Her publishing business specialises in memoirs and as she knows the potential emotions and vulnerability that can come with that, Marcia has a unique range of supportive professionals on board to help her writers and offers counselling as well as editing and design.
Did you always know this was the career you wanted?
I did not know that I wanted to be a writer and publisher, but I knew that I wanted to help people to make a difference in the world and that I wanted to make a difference. Other than that, I wanted to be a singer and an actress when I was a child, I wrote stories and plays and directed plays, I am naturally creative and a lover of reading.
What's something people would be surprised to learn about you?
I can speak Welsh and I performed in Eisteddfods in Wales growing up
I was also a local champion athlete.
What was the most difficult thing about turning your hobby to a business?
Learning a new industry and navigating the language and technicalities involved once I started providing the service on a regular basis for other authors – also moving from my bedroom to my conservatory then into office premises as we began to out grow the space
What is the most fulfilling part of your work?
Seeing the transformation and growth in the authors that I support, coach and develop, the most exciting and satisfying moments are when the book is finally published and the mix of emotions at the book launches.
What are you currently working on?
I’m working on several memoirs for and with my clients, we are also developing our own brand of book products. I am ready to begin the recording of my audio book version of my memoir Geraldine’s Pearl.
Have you experienced any misconceptions about your condition from any colleagues?
My health condition is very difficult to explain, my illnesses are hidden, I manage to achieve a lot because I am driven that way, but it comes at a cost as there are times when I can do nothing. Outwardly colleagues and clients find it hard to believe that I live with a disability and that I need care at times.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Be true to yourself, listen to your inner voice, take good care of you and understand that you cannot please everybody so most importantly please yourself as an act of self- love and self- care. Follow your passion the reward is worth much more than any pay packet. Set yourself free to live.