My name is Jinal Shah. I am a thinker, writer and storyteller. I live a digitally connected life – and you will be able to find me in some of the interesting spaces on the Internet.
I published a children’s story book in 1999 in India, becoming the youngest author at the publishing house. I went on to graduate with honors from Temple University. I have since reported for Lucky and InStyle magazines. At one point I realized that while I loved writing, I wanted to learn a new skill, flex a new muscle. In 2006, I was handpicked by the CEO of a small credit card company based in PA as one of their youngest managers. I worked on the CEO’s team to launch, Ideablob.com – the very first social network ever launched by a credit card company. Since then, I’ve continued my digital education and exploration with leading agencies like POKE NY and Electric Artists.
Currently, I am a Digital Strategist at Electric Artists and consult with a bunch of Fortune 500 clients on their digital and content strategies. It is to be understood that views expressed on this site do not reflect those of my employer or my clients.
When it comes to digital media, I’m interested in two things and this blog aims to explore them both:
1) How can digital media drive or enhance content consumption? What new content formats, distribution channels and ideas will push the boundaries in this space?
2) What role can digital/ social media play in solving social challenges. A solution that I’m currently experimenting is to position digital storytelling as a powerful medium that can impact social behavior. I don’t know exactly how, but I’m a journey to find that out.
Other random things:
I am a StartingBloc ‘NY10 fellow. (The goal of StartingBloc is to position young people to drive social, economic, and environmental innovation.)
I co-founded Dsplaced.com with a friend. Download the first issue of our magazine Dsplaced Magazine
I live with my husband (www.ritheshmenon.com) and with not nearly enough room for my books. Oh and I do not have a large shoe collection. In fact, I only find myself shopping for shoes when I break or lose a pair. Sorry – being a girl and a pseudo New Yorker, I had to make that standard comment about shoes.
I love my Kindle.
