We recently connected with Alana Edwards and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Alana , thanks for joining us today. What’s the kindest thing anyone has ever done for you?
The kindest thing that has been done for me has been In-kind Donations. In-Kind Donations are donations of products and services that are in lieu of monetary donations. Growing up in poverty, there were times that I could not afford the newest fashions or even just modern collections that fit. The first time I received one of these major donations was from a neighbor whose daughter had an excessive amount of clothes I could sort thru. Many were not my size, but enough were which came to my relief as many of my clothes were hand downs from my older brother and outdated. The second time was from a mentor in the modeling industry. To have someone invest in your career from giving advice to donating fashionable clothing and accessories that work is very appreciated. I always make sure to give back during opportunities to do so (assisted my mentor during the creation of her fashion show, as well as promoted her brand during press opportunities). Now I am passing along the blessings with other talented individuals who just need a quick boost!
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?
Alana Rosa Edwards is a Freelance Model and Photojournalist from The Bronx, NY. With 10 years of experience, she has done photoshoots, runway shows, and a few music videos. She is personable, smart, and very motivated. On her downtime she enjoys music, comedy, and soul food as well as traveling. As of 2018, she has relocated to Philadelphia, PA.
Modeling has fulfilled her need to be versatile. Like acting, modeling gives the ability to use different aspects of personality and imagination to do something unique. This growth has enabled her to coordinate events, consult brands on their image, and establish a magazine named Le Statement as well. Currently the magazine is on hiatus, but will return. In the meantime, Alana Rosa submits written articles and photography to various magazines looking for content. She also has used her Photography for personal and professional clients, primarily events and products.
Modeling is a must because she enjoys reviewing established products that are useful, as well as innovative new products that are to be tested and deemed a “must have”. Lastly, representation is necessary for all brands, she knows her look and style of storytelling is to be seen by adults of all ages. Some notable accomplishments so far have included modeling for the NJ Hair Expo in 2021, working with Fashion Bomb Daily in 2022 (both behind the scenes and as an extra model), and being featured on a Times Square billboard twice in 2023 (so far)!
In the near future, Alana Rosa looks to elevate her creativity in arts & culture through new challenges and clients, expanding her brand and promoting those she works with.
Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?
Yes! When I first started, no one told me that I needed to do digital shots, the most basic shots to get booked. I think if I would have known more about the fundamentals, I would be in a dramatically different place. I think more people are concentrating on the art, and not the business of getting paid.
Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?
Yes! So I have always been an avid reader and writer, however as I’ve gotten older the dedication to reading/writing has changed. I now have to go out of my way to read, but I am a lot more open to writing down the thoughts on my mind. A lot of my writing happens at work through conversations with co-workers, with notes to follow up on more in-depth concepts. Since I do a lot of random writing, my first “book” was actually a journal gifted to me. Without one solid place for your thoughts, the answers to all your questions would be sparse.
One thing I have adopted as of recent are podcasts. Although they are similar to audiobooks, its something about people retelling the human experience freely that appeals to me. Two podcasts I would recommend would be : “The Motivated Mind” and “The Mindset Mentor”, both on Spotify. They both give me different ideals on how to get ahead in life, and sometimes there are even episodes that don’t gravitate toward me. I still listen to them both, I found them right before COVID . I also use popular podcasts like “Drink Champs” who interview controversial people- there’s always something to learn.
Speaking of COVID, that sparked my next resource: Coursera. Coursera, Udemy, and Google Classrooms are all resources that offer free and discounted courses based off your interests. During COVID, I had some ideas like sharpening up my Social Media Marketing. Since then, I have been able to utilize these platforms to gain info from major influencers and more who were looking to share knowledge. All opportunities to gain knowledge are GREAT, even if you find out you know most of the info being presented.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.worldofalanarosa.net
- Instagram: @worldofalanarosa
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/alanananarose
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alana-edwards-3350a051/?trk=people-guest_people_search-card
Image Credits
Img 1: Wil Junior Photography Img 2: On behalf of Roberto Silva, Designer-AtYourOwnRisk Img 6 (jean): Mohammedk Img 8: Prescient Photos All other Photos: RozayFlicks