The Self-Proclaimed "Joy Influencer" of North Little Rock
By Katelyn Allen on Monday, November 3, 2025
Chris Bell-Davis grew up in a diverse and lively environment. He started college as a pre-med major but quickly realized it wasn’t the right fit. After transferring from Ouachita Baptist University to the University of Central Arkansas, he began pursuing broadcast journalism and public relations. He discovered how natural and meaningful this career was to him. Connecting with people came easily, and he dreamed of a way to combine both fields into one.
“College became the launchpad for everything I do now,” Chris said. “Those connections still matter today. I tell people I’m in the ‘Career of People’ and creativity, and truthfully, I’ve always had to be—especially navigating college life, social life and my (then-undiagnosed) ADHD. College taught me how to be a professional communicator. More importantly, [it taught me] how to be me.”
Inspired by Gandhi’s quote, “Be the change you wish to see in the world,” he became a self-proclaimed “Joy Influencer,” which he defines as someone who inspires others to find light in dark places–to see the beauty in the mundane, to create joy when they can’t find it.
Chris uses his platform to promote a lifestyle where joy doesn’t have to come at a high cost. He creates content that blends storytelling with artistry by capturing meaningful moments. To Chris, social media is more dynamic than it might seem.
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“Social media is more than posting pretty pictures–it’s about strategy, consistency and humanity,” Chris said. “I always aim to humanize the brand and do it with heart. I focus on quality over quantity, and I’m all about creating content that surprises people, connects them, and introduces them to something new.”
Chris plans to complete his master’s degree in social work so he can open a private practice and coffee shop.
“I want to become a ‘later-in-life’ therapist for adults, helping people shift their perspective, behavior and environment,” Chris said.
He believes passions are a superpower. He advises students to ask themselves how badly they want to achieve their dreams, and to imagine it boldly.
