In addition to modeling, you’ve expressed a strong passion for acting. How do you balance these two demanding careers, and where do you feel most at home—on set or on the runway?
I get this question often! I will never be able to choose between my two great loves, but balancing them has come easier than I thought it would after just a bit of practice. When the acting work slows I take up more modeling and vice versa. When the modeling work slows I apply to more acting jobs and take more classes.
What first inspired you to pursue a career in fashion? / entertainment?
I always knew I wanted to be an Actor since I was in middle school, but I fell into fashion after answering an Instagram ad for a special a new photography studio was running in NYC!
Can you tell us about a pivotal moment in your life when you realized acting and/or modeling was your calling?
When I was at the NYSTEA acting conference for kids I performed a required monologue in a stairwell. And for the first time in my life people not only listened to me, but they listened to me seriously, and in silence, and I commanded that room.
I knew modeling was my calling when my mother agent set up my first agency photoshoot with Hissa Chama (aka Hissa Igarashi) and I saw the final product! I was able to just be myself and explore the quiet but strong sides of myself, and I’d never seen myself through that lens before.
Who are your biggest fashion influences, and how have they shaped your career?
My fellow models! Not the famous ones, but the ones who are also my friends / acquaintances. We inspire and empower each other and share our tips and tricks. And with Gen-Z / Zilennial fashion, I feel more empowered than ever to express myself through clothing.
What actors do you look up to [and why]?
Queen Viola Davis for sure. Her story is captivating, her roles are relatable and empowering. She is the embodiment of female fury and excellence.
How has your approach evolved from when you first started to where you are now?
I am much more focused. A little less idealistic and focused on how I can market myself as a product. I network more. And I waste far less money and time. I realized my worth and how things that once benefitted me are no longer worth my time, money, or energy.
What’s the story behind your latest project?
A model friend of mine is the creative director of a petite model empowerment editorial. I was so grateful when she asked me to be apart of it. But, I’m not trying to spoil the surprise by giving too much away too soon. And my latest role was a small part, but part of a great production company based in the Bronx devoted to sharing African stories.
Do you have any memorable moments from working with other models or actors?
Of course! Both positive and negative. I’ve had models accidentally break my things and show up late to group shoots. And I’ve also had models give me life changing advice and help me procure work! I’ve also had male Actors make me uncomfortable on set, like when one asked me out even though he had a girlfriend… And I’ve also had fellow Actors give me free rides home and work with me on self tapes until midnight! You meet all kinds of people in these industries and the key is to find the ones who do right by you and others.
If you could collaborate with any model or actor, past or present, who would it be and why?
I would love to work with the curve queens! Ashley Graham, Precious Lee, and Paloma Elsesser. They’ve been carrying this industry on their backs for curve models since the beginning and are true trailblazers!
Sometimes at a busy event, it can be difficult to handle the chaos backstage with grace. Can you share a time when things didn’t go as planned and how you managed to stay composed?
I was mistaken for the makeup artist, as many curve models are unfortunately… I politely corrected them and at that moment decided to never work with them again. I also informed the coordinator after the event.
What do you think is the most rewarding aspect of being a model? / actor?
Making the changes you wish you saw growing up. Being the representation that you never saw as a child. And outperforming all the haters while doing it.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in your career, and how did you overcome them?
Misogyny, homophobia, fatphobia, the list goes on… I’ve had photographers verbally harass me – commenting on my breasts and whatnot – and I’ve even had film directors withhold my pay for months while the rest of the crew was already paid. Overcoming hate and financial rouses through our pursuit of art is a constant battle, but we must keep fighting.
Is there a particular project or event that pushed you outside your comfort zone?
My first time doing an intimate scene. And it didn’t help that I was the only one on set taking it seriously. It’s significantly harder to perform an intimacy scene when your crew is laughing… Despite the film being a comedy the only way the scene would’ve worked was for me to approach it from a place of genuine belief and intention.
What message or legacy do you want people to remember about you?
That I made a change, a positive impact. That I did my part to help make this world a better place.
Where do you see yourself and your acting / modeling career in the next 5 years?
I see myself working more in California as well as internationally in Europe and Australia, possibly even Asia as well!
How do you stay motivated and passionate?
I remember what I’ve achieved and look to my peers for support. Without my support network of fellow actors, models, coaches, teachers etc I don’t know where’d I be.
