Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to AsyrRia Ejanna. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

AsyrRia , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Do you feel you or your work has ever been misunderstood or mischaracterized? If so, tell us the story and how/why it happened and if there are any interesting learnings or insights you took from the experience?

In the world of modeling, where appearances often overshadow the personal struggles that lie beneath the surface, I faced a significant misunderstanding. Having developed chronic migraines as a result of a boating accident, my dedication and passion for my craft were unfairly questioned. Unfortunately, many people failed to comprehend the immense physical and emotional toll that migraines imposed. They dismissed the difficulties that I faced, branding me as “not serious” about my modeling career. Misguided judgments and opinions caused deep hurt, as I failed to recognize the determination and resilience required to pursue my dreams amidst chronic pain. These labels obscured the true depth of my commitment and obscured the remarkable strength I possessed to push forward in the face of adversity.

It can be disheartening when others fail to understand the significant impact that chronic illnesses can have on a person’s life. The invisible nature of certain conditions often leads to misconceptions and judgments. However, by finding the courage to speak up and share my story, I discovered that I am not alone in my struggles. Opening up about my chronic migraines allowed me to connect with others who have faced similar obstacles in their own journeys. Through these connections, I realized that I am not a burden or an embarrassment, but a warrior.

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?

Hi, I’m AsyrRia, and I proudly call myself a model here in Minneapolis. It’s been an incredible journey so far, with two years of experience under my belt.

I grew up in the small town of Balsam Lake, Wisconsin, where pursuing a “creative job” seemed like a fantasy. However, life had a way of challenging my path in unimaginable ways. A month before my freshman year of high school, a horrible water tubing accident changed everything for me. The aftermath revealed a permanent Traumatic Brain Injury and the discovery of an Arachnoid Cyst on the back left side of my brain. These conditions transformed my daily life into a constant battle against chronic migraines and concussive symptoms.

Despite the setbacks, I remained determined to chase my dreams. After graduating from high school, my now fiancé and I made the bold decision to move to Minneapolis, envisioning my future in nursing school. Little did we know that the world would be forever altered by the arrival of COVID-19. With the uncertainty surrounding the pandemic, I made the difficult choice to put my nursing aspirations on hold.

In 2021, I found solace in the world of cosmetology, enrolling at Aveda to explore the art of beauty and makeup. It was during Minnesota Fashion Week, while working as a makeup artist for the Golden Magazine fashion show. I crossed paths with incredible models who recognized something special in me. Their encouragement and belief sparked a fire within, igniting a new dream in my heart to become a model. With determination, I took a leap of faith, leaving cosmetology school behind to embrace the world of modeling.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

From the very moment I stepped onto the runway, I embarked on a remarkable journey as a model, leaving my mark on the stages of ten different fashion shows. Each stride I take speaks volumes about my unwavering determination and unyielding spirit in the pursuit of my passion and self-discovery.

But as life would have it, unexpected challenges have crossed my path. In September 2022, amidst the glamour of a fashion show, my personal belongings were stolen as I was set to leave for vacation immediately after the show. The blow struck deep, leaving me questioning my career choice. Yet, I refuse to let adversity define me. It is during such testing times that the strength within us reveals itself, and I summoned the resilience within to take a step back, to recalibrate and find my footing once again.

Within the chaos and despair, a glimmer of hope emerged, radiating with a brilliance I couldn’t ignore. Just two days after that heart-wrenching theft, love intersected my path, and I found myself engaged! Now, in the midst of planning a wedding for 2024, I am immersed in the joy and boundless possibilities that lie ahead. Love has become my guiding light, illuminating a path with hurdles and reminding me that beauty can still flourish amidst adversity.

Today, I stand before you as AsyrRia, a living testament to resilience, defying the limitations imposed by chronic migraines and concussive symptoms. With unwavering courage, I rise above the pain that threatens to dim my light. I am a beacon of strength, a symbol of unwavering perseverance, and a testament to the power of embracing one’s true calling.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

In the world of modeling, my mission is to stand tall not only as a representative of beauty and fashion but also as a voice for those who face the daily challenges of chronic illness. As a model my journey in the world has been colored by the shadows of chronic migraines and concussive symptoms, a result of a traumatic brain injury I sustained years ago. And through my experiences, I have learned that it is essential to empower others who walk a similar path, to let them know that their struggles are not a source of shame or embarrassment.

Living with a chronic illness can be isolating. Many times, people fail to understand the depth of the pain and the invisible battles we fight every day. I refuse to let my condition define me or be a barrier to my dreams. Instead, I embrace my story and use it as a powerful tool to break the stigma surrounding chronic illnesses.

I know what it feels like to be dismissed or not taken seriously because of an invisible condition. Society often overlooks the strength and determination required to pursue a creative career while battling an ongoing health issue. But I am here to remind everyone that we are warriors. Our resilience and ability to thrive in the face of adversity are what truly make us remarkable.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://instagram.com/jusscallme__ria
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/asyrria.nelson
• Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/RiRiEjanna
• Other: https://tiktok.com/@jusscallme__ria

Image Credits
Mawba photography Billieshot Giftedhandz photography ZooZatz B.Rucker & Co