I have been a creative consultant, speaker, performer and writer for the past 6 years. It began over 15 years ago with a degree in Theater and Film.

I started out as a scenic artist for Universal Studios and Nickelodeon which was basically a glorified carpenter. Although I fought long and hard for the opportunity to work in the film industry I couldn’t take being covered in lacquer and dirt 24/7. So I decided to return to school for a Fine Art degree, and majored in Drawing and Painting. A slight detour into pre-med classes turned out to be helpful for drawing human and animal forms (from the inside out!), and my love for the creative process brought me back to Fine Art!

I graduated with the hopes of working as a “real” artist (ah, dreams of a studio, gallery exhibits, and fame!), but the demand for graphic art was increasing. My plan was to work as an artist; not starve as one, so I began my career in graphic art as a graphic designer for small advertising and printing firms. I received extensive training; my drawing ability allowed me to pursue opportunities as a technical illustrator. During this time, I learned an interesting thing called "html"!

I moved to San Francisco a short time after and quickly was recruited into the dotcom craze. My career path went from html, to Flash animation, to writing. My urges to get back to my theater roots lead me to new creative outlets; I chose stand-up comedy. None of my family or friends were surprised at my interest in comedy, they have accused me of being "naturally funny" (they've been laughing at me for years!). I landed an agent and was discovered by the terrific John Cantu, who took me under his wing to teach me the art of humorous speaking. He said I had a spark, a nature charm for the stage, and heck I could even be hilarious on occasion!

So how did all this lead to my present day life, as the one who caught her identity thief? Was it the love I have for crime-solving shows? Not really, I'm just a hard worker who doesn't hear the word "no". When the bank didn't help me, I found help elsewhere. When the police said they didn't have the resources, I did my own research and "legwork" to better understand the thief. I was diligent in getting protection put into place on all my accounts: passwords and alerts, over and over again. Did I get lucky? Perhaps, but I was also prepared--and desperate to put an end to a crime that seems never-ending; it continues to haunt me.

Best of all I trusted my instincts. I have studied, practiced, and trained to listen to my inner voice for years. I believe there are great benefits in learning more about one's inner/sensitive life, and "higher self." I think that my experience in catching the thief was a big pay-off because, while my head was battling with me to stop the pursuit, my "inner self" knew I was on to something.

 

PROFESSIONAL ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Toastmasters - Awarded CTM (Competent Toastmaster) certification in the 10 proficiencies of presenting – Voted to the Executive committee as VP of Membership and awarded for 150% membership recruitment – Winner of SF Area International Speech Competition with a focus in Motivational and Humorous speaking

World Affairs Council - Producer and MC for award winning comedy program – Producer and MC for children’s storytelling program – Co-Produced Middle Eastern Art showcase – Wrote Theme Statement for the annual International Women's Day Forum – Part of Marketing Committee for Women’s Day annual Conference (e.g. bios, press releases, web site development, PR)

CAWA (California Women’s Agenda) - Designer and editor for the organizations major marketing brochure and other collateral pieces – Writer of the mission statement and co-writer for the annual business plan

WICS, Women in Community Services – Creator, developer and presenter for the women’s workshop, Getting a job in the Media

AWARDS and PUBLICATIONS

Meritorious Award 2007 from the Federal Order of Police
Published Illustration, Black Bear Review, Issue 23
Popular Artist Award, WCA "Literal Images" Exhibition
Published Featured Artist, ArtsLink Magazine, 12th Edition
Individual Artist Recognition Award, Arts Services Council, Inc.
Kathy Fettke, Writing competition 2005

My Story Behind FightingBackNow.com

Read it in my own word's click here.