By now I'm sure you've heard about the viral story surrounding digital marketing and media strategist Karen Civil and comedian, influencer, and media personality Jessie Woo. If not, I'll give you a quick recap.
Things got tense when Jessie Woo claimed that Karen Civil "pretended" to book her for an event in order to "obtain personal information" and serve her with "an extortion case for the sum of three million dollars at the fake booking and had it recorded it order to pass the video around the industry with the goal to embarrass and intimidate" her. Then, things began to spiral even more into a frenzy when Karen Civil responded via the Clubhouse app, stating that Jessie is just looking for attention and has been publicly defaming her for months, which was her reasoning for the defamation suit. During this conversation, an artist and popular media personality also weighed in sharing that Karen had committed wrongful acts toward them as well.
During this conversation, an artist and popular media personality also weighed in sharing that Karen had committed wrongful acts toward them as well.
To be honest, when this story initially dropped I was hoping it was released in error. Karen Civil has worked with notable artists, politicians, and more. She's someone I've followed for years, and dare I say, even looked up to. And although I was introduced to Jessie Woo more recently, I've grown to truly enjoy her content and music. In case you didn't know, sis can SING.
Karen Civil lost a lawsuit to Jessie Woo & owes her a more than a few bags 💰💰💰 after trying to extort Jessie & hinder future developments and earning in the industry. Good for her ass!! Talking all that Haitian empowerment crap when behind the scenes you the opposite.
— ðŸ‡ðŸ‡¹ðŸ‘‘ Pash (@AlwaysPash) September 16, 2021
It's truly unfortunate to see two Haitian, talented, and creative women at odds so publically, yet here we are. While I'm still not sure who is right or wrong in this situation, I can say, the whole debacle has taught me a few things.
1. "There’s No Friends In the Industry"Â
Nah, I have to disagree with Drake on that one. I have a few friends in the industry. But, what I mean by that is, it's important not to confuse business and networking relationships with true friendship. If these women had genuine camaraderie, a conversation would have occurred before things escalated to this level. Remember, just because you share similar interests with someone, that does not always equate to friendship.
2. Your Reputation Will Always Follow YouÂ
Cam'ron, Jessie Woo and other people have been warning people about Karen Civil for years, but because she aligned herself up with people like the game and Nicki Minaj or people just didnt like some of her accusers she got off easy. Now Joyner Lucas and Jason Lee speaking...😳 pic.twitter.com/UeKr8pQEca
— Tae Tae (@4everTae) September 18, 2021
One of my favorite Maya Angelou quotes says, "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." We're all going to make mistakes and maybe even do or say things we shouldn't. But, when actions are taken that cause others to question your integrity, that is when situations become more complicated. Even when stuff is falling apart, make sure your character remains intact.
3. People Can’t Take Away Your WorkÂ
No matter anyone's personal feelings toward you, one thing people can't take away is your work ethic. By not putting your best foot forth professionally, you leave yourself open to business and personal scrutiny. But, when you put time and effort into your skill, your work will continue to thrive even through personal adversity and shortcomings.
I hope both women are able to resolve their issues or at least keep it off the internet. To learn more about the Karen Civil and Jessie Woo debacle, check outThe Grio.
Featured image via Getty Images