We’re looking forward to introducing you to Dunice Harrell-Bolden. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Dunice, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What is a normal day like for you right now?
Right now my days are centered on fundraising and strengthening the work we do at EmpowerPix. Most mornings start with planning or reviewing our fundraising efforts. That includes organizing our events, shaping our outreach on social media, and meeting with people who want to support our mission.
I also spend time out in the community. I attend partnership meetings, join local nonprofit and school events, and speak about the impact of our programs. The rest of my time goes toward running the nonprofit itself and my photography business. That means handling operations, supporting our students and families, and conducting photoshoots.
It keeps me busy, but everything I’m doing right now is focused on building the resources we need to serve more students.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Dunice Harrell-Bolden, the founder of EmpowerPix and Dunice Harrell Photography based in North Dallas. EmpowerPix is a nonprofit that provides complimentary senior portraits to students in underserved communities and students facing financial and social barriers.
I started this work as a passion project a few years ago with one simple goal: despite financial circumstances, ensure every student feels seen and celebrated as they move into the next stage of life. What makes our organization special is the mix of creativity and impact. We don’t just take photos. We give students a moment to feel proud of themselves. We’re currently planning to expand to more programs that will help prepare them for the future, build confidence, and explore new opportunities. I like to think of this as 4 pillars to support the whole student: recognition (our foundational program, GOAL – senior portraits), resilience and readiness (Creative Lens program – in planning), and relationships (EmpowerCircle peer/mentoring community – in planning).
Our work is growing because the need is real, and the community has rallied around it. It’s meaningful to give students something that becomes a lifelong keepsake and a reminder that their story matters.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
Before the world tried to define who I should be, I was someone who moved through life with an open mind. I didn’t see limits around ideas or creativity. I followed whatever sparked my curiosity and believed I could make something new out of anything I imagined.
That part of me never went away. It’s the same mindset that shaped EmpowerPix. I’ve always felt drawn to possibilities, not boundaries. And when I’m working with students, I want them to feel that same freedom to create, dream, and express themselves without being boxed in by expectations.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I’d tell my younger self to trust GOD and your ideas. Your ideas weren’t too big or too different. They were the start of the path you were meant to take and ultimately, destined for your life. You have a creative mind that is meant to be used as your contribution to the world to make a difference in other’s lived experiences.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes. The public version of me is the real me. I’m living and working in my purpose, and it’s the most liberated I’ve ever felt. I get to create without limits, lead my own vision, and build things in a way that aligns with who I am. I’m not conforming to anyone else’s way of doing things. I’m just showing up as myself, doing the work I believe in, and letting that speak for itself.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What do you think people will most misunderstand about your legacy?
I think some people may assume my legacy was only about giving away free photos. The portraits matter, but they were never the whole story. The real work was about dignity, confidence, and giving students a moment that reminded them of their worth and potential. The photos were the doorway, not the destination.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.empowerpix.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empowerpix
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/empowerpix
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EmpowerPix/
Image Credits
Dunice Harrell-Bolden
