We recently connected with Arthur Russell and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Arthur thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. What do you think matters most in terms of achieving success?

To be successful, I believe it takes a great deed of hard work and perseverance. I look at the lives of peers that I grew up with. Some are incarcerated, some on drugs and some are now deceased. I ask myself, “What’s different from them and myself?” The only difference was that I: Included God in my life, worked my butt off and NEVER gave up.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Just wanted to personally welcome everyone to the world of SLEEK. Some may ask, what is SLEEK? SLEEK is more than just a magazine. SLEEK is a local networking establishment that focuses on fashion, beauty, health, wellness, community, production, advertisement, entertainment and content development for brands. Branded under the name SLEEKLA, we established SLEEK to help build business relationships throughout the southern California region, leading to neighboring large regions, large cities and eventually globally.

The purpose of our magazine is to create opportunities of exposure for up and coming talents both locally and globally. Transitioning to the SoCal area years ago, I experienced the grind of navigating into the industry. During these years, I encountered what most had, difficulties. SLEEK prompted me to begin a new journey with emphasis of building community in the process. After freelancing as a photographer, for agencies, for events and ultimately establishing my own agency, I decided to launch SLEEK. Under the SLEEK umbrella, we not only create opportunities, but we’ve built a community to support like minded individuals who will grow and expand together. Welcome to SLEEK.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

I recall moving to California is 2014. After years of wedding photographer, I was finally in the place to jump into fashion. I recall working all day to family time to dedicating any extra time I had photographing events, fashion shows and people for free. During this process, I was building my portfolio, sharpening skills, building a network and learning. The times were stressful and very tough. Ultimately, I arrived at a place where I’ve build a massive network, clientele and business.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

I learned that everyone isn’t going to believe in your vision and no one is going to be there for you like yourself. Cycling through several business partners, I’ve encountered individuals shadowing me to blueprint my business model & individuals working along with me but also working with other companies to retrieve information for me.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.sleekla.com
• Instagram: connectionswithart
• Threads: connectionswithart Magazine
• IG: sleekvmagazine
• Models IG: sleekmodelsla
• Events IG: sleeksaturdays