We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Deangela Mann. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with DeAngela below.

DeAngela, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What’s the best or worst investment you’ve made?

The best investment I’ve made as a business owner has been in myself—my growth, confidence, and skill set. When I began my modeling career, I quickly realized that success wasn’t just about how I looked or performed; it was about how much I believed in myself and my ability to stand out in a competitive industry.

I invested in professional development by practicing my craft through workshops, perfecting my walk, and learning how to present myself as a brand. I also dedicated time to self-care to maintain the physical, mental, and emotional energy needed to thrive in both my personal and professional life. A significant moment for me was participating in Fashion Week Columbus, where I had to trust in my preparation and authenticity to showcase my work on a prestigious platform.

This investment has paid off in ways I could never have imagined—ranging from securing agency representation to gaining the confidence to share my story and create a lasting impact in my field. The lesson I’ve learned is that investing in yourself is the foundation of success. When you believe in your worth and continuously refine your craft, everything else starts to fall into place.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’m DeAngela Mann, a pioneering curve model, creative visionary, and devoted wife and mother. My journey into the modeling industry began with a leap of faith and a fierce desire to see women like me celebrated. My son and I embraced our first modeling opportunity together with a major company in Cincinnati, Ohio, which launched my career and showcased the power of taking chances.

Currently represented by Heyman Talent Agency, I’ve had the honor of showcasing my work on esteemed platforms, including Fashion Week Columbus. I’ve walked for remarkable designers such as Sylvia Piechulla and Amber Nicole, bringing their visions to life on the runway. As a model and creative, I am dedicated to embodying diversity, self-love, and authenticity, providing brands the chance to connect with audiences who value inclusivity and individuality.

What truly sets me apart is my commitment to creating a legacy—not just for myself, but for the women and girls who see themselves in me. My mission is to inspire confidence and remind others that they, too, can achieve greatness, regardless of their size or background.

I take pride in the impact I’ve made, whether through walking the runway for innovative designers or connecting with people via social media, where I share my journey and celebrate life’s victories. My work and brand transcend modeling; they’re about fully embracing oneself, stepping into power, and breaking through barriers.

To my clients, followers, and fans, know that my work is grounded in authenticity and faith. Every step I take is guided by my belief in God’s purpose for my life and my passionate drive to make a difference. This is just the beginning, and I’m excited about the future.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

For years, I believed that “my value is tied to how much I achieve.” This mindset profoundly shaped my identity, especially in an environment where accomplishments were celebrated and failure felt like a defining moment. I thought that without constantly reaching new heights—through career milestones or personal goals—I wasn’t worthy of respect or self-love.

My wake-up call came during a particularly challenging period. Juggling a demanding job, personal struggles, and the weight of others’ expectations, I hit a wall. A close family member reminded me they missed the “real me,” not the overachiever who was too busy to connect. Their words stung but resonated deeply. I realized I had been chasing external validation, neglecting relationships, my health, and even my sense of joy.

As hard as it was, I began unlearning this belief. I sought therapy, started journaling, and set boundaries—not only with others but also with myself. I began celebrating small wins, embracing rest, and reframing failure as a stepping stone rather than a measure of worth. Now, I see success as holistic: thriving emotionally, mentally, and spiritually, not merely ticking off boxes.

Unlearning this mindset has grounded me and helped me build a life rooted in authenticity and balance. It’s still a journey, but it’s transformative in ways I couldn’t have imagined.

Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?

As a woman navigating both the creative and business sides of the industry—while also balancing corporate life and motherhood—I have found incredible inspiration and guidance from Black artists, creators, and entrepreneurs who share their journeys, insights, and resilience.

Books:

“The Memo” by Minda Harts”: This book offers practical advice for navigating professional spaces as a Black woman. I often revisit it when I need perspective on managing challenges or advocating for myself.

“Get Good with Money” by Tiffany Aliche”: This book has been a game-changer for understanding personal finance and wealth-building. Tiffany’s practical and accessible advice has helped me develop a strong financial foundation, which is critical for managing the unpredictable nature of entrepreneurial income. Her story of resilience and reinvention inspires me to view challenges as stepping stones rather than obstacles.

Podcasts:

“Black Girl Boss Podcast”: This podcast dives deep into the experiences of Black women entrepreneurs, discussing strategies for success while staying true to our cultural roots.

“Therapy for Black Girls”: This has been a transformative resource for me. Dr. Joy Harden Bradford’s episodes cover everything from mental health to navigating relationships and career pressures as a Black woman. The podcast constantly reminds me that taking care of my emotional well-being is not a luxury; it’s a necessity for sustainable success.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://heymantalent.com/t/deangela-mann
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deangelarenee/

Image Credits

itstartsbehindthelens

the.orange.portrait

fifteensixty productions