We were lucky to catch up with Erynn Monae recently and have shared our conversation below.

Erynn , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

It all started during my freshman year of high school when I was around 14 years old. I’ve always had a deep fascination for art, especially in the areas of modeling, fashion, and beauty. I would upload makeup and hair tutorials on my YouTube channel when I was in high school, as well as doing photo shoots and attending castings for fashion shows. My peers would often approach me for advice regarding their hair and makeup, and I would recommend hair brands and demonstrate techniques. Little did I know I was already carving a niche for myself as an influencer.

I invested a huge amount of time studying models in magazines and watching runway shows. I remember taking my mother’s magazines and cutting out things that felt inspiring to me. Whether that was a model’s outfit, her makeup, or how she posed. I vividly remember staying up at night, practicing my “runway walk” in my grandmother’s basement to Rihanna’s “Phresh off the Runway” track lol. Modeling was something that felt natural to me; it was a calling that I had felt in my heart since childhood. My interest in the field was undoubtedly influenced by my mother, who was a fashion designer.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

My name is Erynn Monae, and I am a model, influencer, and content creator. My interest in modeling began at the age of 14, and I started creating content professionally at 19. My journey started with creative photo shoots and walking in fashion shows, including one for Topshop/Topman. My interest in makeup and hair led me to create mini tutorials on my YouTube channel for fun during my high school days. Which eventually led to me attaining my cosmetology license. In 2016, my boyfriend James and I created a joint YouTube channel titled “Erynn and James,” which amassed about 50,000 subscribers and over 4 million views. Our highest-performing video reached 500,000 views, and it was at this point I realized I could actually turn my passion for content creation into a career.

Currently, I create inspirational fashion and beauty content for my audience. My main goal is to empower young women to pursue their passions and to let their inner beauty shine, regardless of their background or appearance.

One of the most valuable skills that I learned early on was how to work the camera. This has helped me tremendously in my modeling and content creation pursuits by enabling me to exude confidence and showcase different personas. Adaptability and versatility are key in this industry.

Throughout my journey, I have faced many challenges and obstacles. However, I am most proud of my perseverance and determination to never give up. Not giving up got me to where I am today. If I could give advice to any creative out there, it is to keep going, no matter what it looks like. Stay focused and committed to your craft, even when you’re not seeing the results you want. Don’t give up. It will come. It will happen.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding aspect as a creative is the ability to inspire others. My main goal is to positively impact those around me, whether it is through my art or by simply being authentic to myself. Knowing that my efforts have empowered others to find greater courage, confidence, or inspiration is truly golden to me.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

I believe we need to have a more inclusive society. This means recognizing that there is no one “correct” method for pursuing creative endeavors. It is extremely important to showcase and celebrate the successes of Black creatives, who have continuously been underrepresented in this industry. The world is full of individuals with diverse backgrounds and viewpoints, and it is important that we uplift unique and authentic artistic perspectives rather than only focusing on mainstream or popular trends.

Contact Info:

• Website: linktr.ee/erynnmonae
• Instagram: instagram.com/erynnmonae/

Image Credits
Calvin Maurice Media; Branden Adams Photography