Known as Berry Dynamic, Ciara Suesberry is a three-time Congressionally Awarded Strategist specializing in brand management, public relations, and innovations. She is known as “The Force Stimulating Change,” and is a successful visionary and publicist who excels the voices of ambitious outreach leaders and culture creators to the forefront of their industry. She is a combination of a best-selling ghostwriter and contributing author of seven books. In addition, she functions as a Communications Director for various businesses and influencer brands. Her talents are in operation management, business development, event activations, and campaign strategies. Since the start of her agency in 2017, she’s consulted over 75 organizations ranging from finance, education, nonprofit, entertainment, technology, fashion, literature, and health & wellness. Today, she is highly sought after as Houston’s leading strategist, communication consultant, and technical writer.
FWM: When did your passion for PR begin?
My passion for PR began in 2012 after spending years learning the media industry. While attending the University of Texas in Austin in 2010, I studied journalism and media stories such as The Watergate scandal. I knew the code of ethics and understood the power of the media, which made me want to dive deeper into the industry. Shortly after, the political thriller TV series “Scandal” aired, and I began to study Kerry Washington’s character, Olivia Pope, the media consultant to the President. Once I transferred to the University of Houston-Clear Lake, I furthered my studies in media writing, media law, global media studies, and public relations. One of my assignments was to watch the movie “Live From Baghdad,” a war drama film about news coverage of the war and the ethics of journalism. However, this film revealed how false information was reported to the United States to portray a narrative that was the opposite of what the reporters saw with their own eyes—this moment made me realize that while a journalist’s responsibility is to report factual information, not all outlets uphold the code of ethics of journalism. This discovery took me down the rabbit hole and obsessed me with seeking the truth in everything I do. My research helped me discover the power of public relations and the ability to submit newsworthy stories.
FWM: How important is branding when launching a brand?
Branding is essential when launching a brand. A strong brand can differentiate your products or services from competitors, create brand loyalty among customers, and increase the perceived value of your offerings. A brand is more than just a logo or a name; it’s how your customers feel about your company, what it represents, and what it offers. Branding helps with building recognition, establishes credibility, and increases customer loyalty.
FWM: Your portfolio is diverse. You work with entertainment, fashion, tech, health & Wellness, and more. Why is diversity important to you?
I’m grateful to have worked in different industries that have successfully challenged me to provide solutions. Diversity is important to me because there is power in your connections. By having a diverse portfolio, I’ve been able to specialize in strategic partnerships and propel my client’s business or brand through this service.
FWM: What does it take to make it in the PR industry?
Over the last ten years, I’ve learned it takes strong communication skills, creativity, adaptability, strategic thinking, relationship-building, and industry knowledge. The PR industry can be fast-paced and high-pressure. You need to handle stress and setbacks with resilience and determination. My tenacious personality has kept me in the industry for so long and is the reason for my success.
FWM: Share your proudest moment of your career.
There are so many that I don’t know how to put my finger on just one proud moment. Since I offered a variety of services, I’ve been able to play a role in many celebrities, influencers, and public figures’ brands.
FWM: What are your current projects?
I work with Writer and Director Courtney Glaude from BET’s Original Film “The Reading,” Powerhouse Producer Monica Floyd, and actor Brooklyn McLinn from Peacock’s hit TV series Bel Air.
My personal IG @iamberrydynamic
Business IG @berrydynamicagency
