From Socialite to CEO: Meet Lisa Persaud
Back Story – Lisa Persaud aka L Peezy is a recognizable name in the nightlife and music industry – She has been the host and face of many events across the globe, known to be in the company of A list celebrities and recognized for her former publication Industry Mag which provided a platform for upcoming and established talent. Her extensive resume backs to her A&R days at Ruff Ryders, Promotional Director at Poe Boy (Rick Ross) to Head of Promotions (XO formerly CP records) to Bad Boy Records.
With all the appeared glitz and glamor of what the lifestyle appeared to be, it was all glamorous from the outside but short lived. With age came wisdom and Lisa had to strategize on how to make something of all these experiences and connections. Hosting was becoming redundant, the industry was now uninteresting and there was no sense of accomplishment (after Industry Mag). Of course with her lifestyle came haters, scandal and “fake news” – Lisa then decided she wanted to dedicate herself to creating positive experiences, create an income with her most valued asset – her network and creating a new chapter that was more recognizable than “being that girl in VIP” She thought, what would I want to see, where would I want to go? With these thoughts, she birthed her firm LP Relations. A boutique promotional, event management & public relations firm focusing on creating experiences & valuable connections that translate into achievements while adhering to the clients core values, brand and company image. A firm that would specialize in creating positive and memorable experiences whether it be events with a purpose, showcasing artists entrepreneur and humanitarian side, creating opportunities for venues to offer great experiences for their clientele, being a trust worthy connection to talent etc…
Lisa’s efforts have extended her network all over the world. She prides herself on making sure everyones “eats” The industry always had a selfish aroma, so the fact she can provide a platform for artists, make venues and talent money, showcase in positive light in media – finally gives her a sense of fulfillment.
Now expanding from talent and product branding to include luxury venue branding which this year alone has allowed her to travel to 9 countries to work with the hottest international events and exclusive venues and resorts. She has grown to make an opportunity and dollar everywhere she goes and to make all projects go hand in hand.
Aside from running her company, she is determined to be an example and role to young women in the industry, that although there can be a stigma with women in the business, you can prove otherwise. Not everyone has to be a vixen, reality star etc… People will always critique but its up to you if it’ll make or break you. There are so many paths women can take in this business, she just wants to shed light and give hope and opportunities to young women wanting to be in this world and encourage them to do it with morality and confidence.
The Hype Magazine got Lisa to weigh in on a few things!
From the outside looking in, tell us about Lisa Persaud and what makes her tick?
Lisa Persaud is an ambitious go getter. As an outsider looking in, I would see her as a determined woman, eager to constantly grow, reinvent and inspire. I would say what makes her tick is relevancy, not the clout kind – but the kind to do things with a purpose and leave an inspirational mark.
What brought you to the entertainment industry?
Coming from a family that’s in entertainment and fashion – I stem from it. So naturally I gravitated to the business. It actually started when I was 14 years old, designing flyers for events to then promoting them, to curating them, to booking talent to working with talent. It was a natural progression.
You’ve grown your brand to an amazingly recognizable status, what do you attribute that to?
Thank you.
On top of hard work, just being positive. Not every opportunity will follow through, and it’s so important to nurture yourself and say it wasn’t meant to be and theres a greater plan. Keep pushing because no hard work will ever go unrewarded.
The importance of networking is inarguable, what’s your guidance for overcoming initial shyness as one begins to get out and about?
To be completely honest, and unless you’re one of my close friends – you probably wouldn’t believe me, but I am actually very shy. I don’t like public speaking or being on camera. lol. As a kid I never even spoke but when I would perform (I was a competitive dancer growing up) It was like an alter ego washed over me and I had to do my best to win. I think I use that same attribute to my life and career now. I have to speak up, I have to promote myself, I have to network because the success of my brand depends on it. I think once you find something you are passionate and good at, your confidence and desire to win overtakes any shyness; because no one can shut you up or stop you at that point.
Biggest Challenge to getting where you are today?
For myself, the biggest challenge are the sacrifices, losing out on special moments with loved ones, failed relationships, doing whats best for you even when it can disappoint others. It’s a battle within yourself, is this worth it? Your business becomes your significant other, your child, your world. You can’t sleep on any opportunity that comes your way to help it thrive.
The challenge is learning to accept that you can’t make everyone happy, you will miss out on things, but ultimately it comes down to, what do you want. If being successful is that, than I promise the sacrifices are worth it.
Biggest triumph for you professionally?
My greatest triumph professionally will always be my first project: Industry Magazine.
A publication I created when I was 23 years old in my home city of Toronto. I knew my end goal was to end up in public relations, and of course the most valuable asset to that is your network. Knowing this and combining my passion for journalism, music and PR.
I knew Industry Mag would serve many purposes. Connecting me with people in the industry and also be a platform for talent on and behind the screen – especially for Toronto which at the time lacked major international exposure for the hip hop culture. I am proud of this project, the relationships it created, and the many doors it opened for not only myself but my team and the many talented features we had.
What draws you to a project or event?
I’m drawn to projects with a desire. Everything I do must have a staple purpose and opportunity for everyone on board to win, not just financially but to obtain positive exposure and add to their list of accomplishments. The events must create an ever lasting experience, charities to give back to the communities, platforms for brands and the underdogs. Anything that leaves a memorable mark.
How do you handle the demands of business and personal, what keeps you balanced?
I’ve learned to manage myself better, both professionally and personal. I make sure I take on what I can handle comfortably. It’s important to have YOU time and know its alright to sit some things out. All the money in the world isn’t worth losing your sanity over.
Being so popular in the entertainment industry and in such demand, tell us about the sacrifices of being successful
The sacrifices for me, were missing out on important moments and sleep. I was just telling someone how much I love long flights cause that’s probably the only thing I get to sleep and be unbothered. Lol. The other major one that people overlook, is loss of privacy. The minute you’re even associated in this business, you become a person of interest – people will either love you or ridicule you. Everything is scrutinized, especially in this digital age where people have this false sense of reality. I dealt with it a lot during my magazine era and it was hard. Hence why I never strived to be “in the the spotlight”.
What is your biggest satisfaction in your line of work and does it make up for the personal sacrifice?
The biggest satisfaction is seeing my growth, how far I’ve come as an entrepreneur, being able to put people on to make money and their bring visions to life. Looking back at my life – I’m so grateful for all the opportunities I’ve had, its allowed to travel the world, create with a purpose and live a life that inspires other young women.
We’ve got to ask you about you about your looks, what do you most enjoy about the fashion industry as it plays a part in your professional life?
Fashion has always been in my life, my mother was a designer alongside another famous fashion designer. Growing up, she always had custom made gowns for me for any show or event. I would sketch it and she would have it brought to life. Whats funny is that, I always HATED that. I wanted to dress regular, not be so over the top. Funny how you change cause now, I love any event that requires formal over the top attire. Fashion is an outlet for expression. My style reflects my mood. You’ll know what kind of day\night I intend to have based on my attire.
Last but not least, what’s been your craziest “Where They Do That At” or WTF moment in business?
I’ve definitely seen a lot of WTF moments with some celebrities, to a point where nothing surprises me. As a professional it would probably be best in everyones best interest to keep those moments in my confidence. Lol
To be honest, I think the WILDEST moments come from the crazed fans. I’ve seen some fans lose their minds and risk it all for their star crushes.
About the Author
Dr. Jerry Doby Editor-in-Chief of The Hype Magazine, Media and SEO Consultant, Journalist, Ph.D. and retired combat vet. 2023 recipient of The President's Lifetime Achievement Award. Partner at THM Media Group. Member of the U.S. Department of Arts and Culture, the United States Press Agency and ForbesBLK.
Related Posts
May Fall and “Sleep” Takes Listeners on a Mesmerizing Journey into the Depths of the Mind →
Love Crushed Velvet Talks New Single and Visual for “Blind Emotions” →
Patrick Cupid: American Contemporary Luxury Fashion Designer Goes “Primordial” →
