By Dendy Media

Today we’d like to introduce you to Forrest Tuff.

It’s an honor to speak with you today. Why don’t you give us some details about you and your story. How did you get to where you are today?

Thank you. I was born in Atlanta, Georgia to two great parents along with four siblings. Although I enjoyed dancing, drawing, and singing, I lettered in 3 sports (football, track, and basketball) at Druid Hills High School. I found my 1st love in basketball! I received a full-ride scholarship to play at Gordon Jr. College (now Gordon State College) and later Western Carolina University (Division I). My single goal in life was to play in the NBA, but my dreams were derailed after suffering a career-ending injury. Fortunately, I was inducted into Gordon’s Hall of Fame, which would be the final legacy of my basketball career. The loss of sports and seemingly “my identity” at the time sent me on a downward spiral. I lost my confidence and felt as if I was wandering through life with no direction. After working several jobs in corporate, retail, and media, I decided to start a business in video production. I started providing videography services for birthdays, weddings, and music videos. Eventually, I pivoted and began working with small businesses, corporations, and government agencies. Today, I am an award-winning author, film/TV producer, and speaker. Recently, I became Toastmasters International’s 89th Accredited Speaker in the world and the first African American in Georgia to receive this credential. The designation is for professional speakers who combine expert knowledge in a particular subject with mastery of the spoken word, making them sought-after experts in their respective fields, enabling them to be paid, professional speakers.

I’m sure your success has not come easily. What challenges have you had to overcome along the way?

The biggest challenge I have faced is my mindset. There were times I doubted myself and my ability to achieve success. As a self-taught multimedia professional, I was unsure if I could compete with companies whose teams had formal training. I believed the only education that mattered was a degree. What I failed to remember was that faith, experience, innovation, research, and a non-stop drive were also keys to success. The attributes that guided me to achieve great accomplishments in sports could be the same principles to help me thrive as an entrepreneur. I had to get out of my own way.

Let’s talk about the work you do. What do you specialize in and why should someone work with you over the competition?

My company is One Vision Productions, a multimedia and branding agency in Atlanta, Georgia. We specialize in cutting-edge film and TV production, innovative graphic design, aerial drone services, script-writing, audio recording, editing, and video production for businesses and government agencies. We focus on providing excellent products along with a great customer service experience. One Vision Productions is a recipient of the Better Business Bureau Torch Award for Customer Service and listed as one of Atlanta’s Best and Brightest Companies to Work For, since 2015 by the National Association of Business Resources.

What’s your best piece of advice for readers who desire to find success in their life?

Define what success means for you. It’s different for everyone. Whether your goals are philanthropic in nature or financially motivated, be comfortable with your decision. Set goals, conduct the proper research, and strategically map out the plans to achieve them. Know your “Why.” Understand your reasons for pursuing a certain course of action and your desired outcome.

Speaking of success, what does the word mean to you?

Success for me is maintaining a balance between my business, personal goals, and family. I am passionate about my work as a business owner, professional speaker, and film producer. These avenues allow me to exercise my creative and leadership skills. I find fulfillment in accomplishing goals and striving to be the best. I realize my self-motivation is innate and is the reason I became a top athlete. However, the difference now is that I am also motivated by my family as well. I strive to be the best person, husband, and father possible. I want my wife and children to know that I am dependable and that they are my priority. Not only that, but I truly love spending time with them.

What’s next for you?

Now that I have found my “physical” voice as a storyteller, I will be involved in more speaking engagements. As a professional member of the National Speakers Association and Certified Business/Life Coach, I will continue offering entrepreneurship workshops and one-one training programs. In December 2020, I received my trademark for the term Filmpreneur®, as a way to market my creativity, and sell branded merchandise as a filmmaker and entrepreneur. I am currently putting together a podcast/TV show, and writing and a new book and feature film.

Finally, how can people connect with you if they want to learn more.

W: www.ForrestTuff.com | IG: @ForrestTuff | E: info@ForrestTuff.com