We were lucky to catch up with Imani Jackson recently and have shared our conversation below.

Imani, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Was there a defining moment in your professional career? A moment that changed the trajectory of your career?

Moving to California especially, really opened my eyes more, to the beauty of nature. From 2021 till about 2022 I used that as a catalyst for what I wanted to do professionally. I started incorporating that more into my model, having shoots in more natural environments, using and wearing more natural colors to compliment what I see outside. Also my new journey to living under the sun. From having a garden on my boyfriend’s balcony to us now purchasing land. This has been a huge shift in my life yet an amazing foundation for my future self.

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

I lived in Reisterstown Maryland for majority of my life. I went to school in Virginia and studied Biology. Anatomy was my favorite! & I realized that I enjoy understanding the natural works of anything living really, humans, plants animals. After college I desired to learn more about plants specifically and their health benefits. My first career choice was a medical dispensary in Maryland that I truly fell inlove with. I enjoyed helping people through herbs with their medical needs. Living in California now inspires me to learn more about all plants, the cannabis plant specifically. I began to start growing myself & I also started growing my own vegetables and fruits too! I realized especially, at the end of 2023 that this is something I want to do, I just need more space! I created my brand @naturebymani to create a name for myself and share my love for nature & being self sufficient! One thing I’m proud of for sure is starting. I’m a proud land owner. Now that I have the land, now it’s time for me to be consistent. The goal is to build this oasis so I can create! in general. Having photoshoots and creating visuals & having that beautiful garden & farm, to grow more plants, have animals too! I’m looking forward to expanding my brand mentioned earlier by supplying fresh produce, making teas just to name two. This entire project is so special because I can finally have a relaxing space to have loved ones come & visit. I feel that I’m finally creating the space that I need to succeed.

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

I had to learn to stop dreaming so much. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a beautiful to dream, pray, wish for things to happen. The important thing to getting what you want out of your own life is actually doing it what you dream, literally!! I also had to understand that I can do it. For some reason I figured only certain people could do what I wanted or I didn’t have the ability to do it. Once I realized that under God all things are possible. My thoughts shifted & my boyfriend really helped me understand just that. I think most people need to stop dreaming so much & dont do it tomorrow, don’t do it next week, do it today. Once you start keep going! & remind yourself daily why you started in the first place.

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

Being myself. The less I overthink the more effective & it seems to work for both brands. I won’t ever have everything fully understood but I notice that when you try hard you die hard, they say. So I just remain to understand who Iam to be a better self.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @naturebymani @mzahni
• Twitter: jmzahni
• Youtube: mzahni