We were lucky to catch up with Destiny Kalinowski recently and have shared our conversation below.

Destiny, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Do you wish you had waited to pursue your creative career or do you wish you had started sooner?

If I could turn back time, I would have pursued my creative career earlier. My introduction to the modeling industry began during my teenage years in New York, where I first started exploring my passion. However, life took an unexpected turn, and at 17, I relocated to Florida. At that point, I needed to prioritize stability, taking on full-time roles in customer service across retail, sales, and health insurance to ensure a steady income.

It wasn’t until more recently that I was able to invest both the time and resources into reigniting my modeling career. While I sometimes reflect on what might have been had I continued nurturing my talent in New York, I understand that the move to Florida was a necessary step in my journey. Life has a unique way of unfolding, and I’m grateful to now have the opportunity to pursue my passion fully.

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

I began my modeling journey by attending Barbizon classes in New York, where I gained a strong foundation in the industry. To build my portfolio, I organized TFP (Trade for Pictures) photoshoots and submitted my work to local New York agencies. During this time, I connected with several NYC-based agencies, but a relocation prevented me from continuing those contracts.

After moving to Florida, I pursued college and worked in retail, though I never found the same fulfillment as I did in modeling. A few years later, I rediscovered my passion and began rebuilding my portfolio and resubmitting to agencies. This dedication led me to sign with my mother agency, Premiere Model Management, in New Smyrna Beach. With updated composite cards in hand, I am now focused on exploring new opportunities by submitting to agencies across Florida and am excited about the next steps in my career.

Have you ever had to pivot?

After my father passed away, I had to relocate to Florida, which brought significant changes to my life. It became essential for me to establish a stable income, so I decided to pursue a degree in Crime Scene Investigation—a field that fascinated me and offered opportunities for stability. At the same time, I worked multiple jobs to support myself and pay off student loans. Balancing my education with work taught me resilience, time management, and the importance of perseverance. These experiences not only helped me navigate a challenging time but also shaped me into a stronger and more determined individual.

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

I believe society should provide more support for creatives and encourage them to pursue their dreams. While having a stable income is essential, I’ve learned that it’s equally important not to dim your creative light. Stability provides a strong foundation, but creative pursuits bring fulfillment and a sense of purpose that can’t be replaced. I believe the key is finding the right time to strike a balance between the two. Once I established financial stability, I was able to channel my energy into creative ventures without compromising my responsibilities. This balance has allowed me to grow both professionally and personally, proving that it’s possible to pursue your passions while maintaining a strong, stable foundation.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @officialdestinykali

Image Credits

@md.editorial – Margaret D