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

Jayla, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

I knew I wanted to pursue a creative and artistic path professionally at the the age of 19 when I dropped out of college. Honestly, it wasn’t because I couldn’t do it but because I couldn’t afford it and being from the city of Chicago anything can happen honestly, more bad than good at that. I really wasn’t the type to have a regular life. I have so much talent and such a big personality, it was like I was destined to be great and it really hit me after I left college. Always take risk you never know what you can get out of life being fearless.

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.

My name is Jayla Ford. Born and raised in the city of Chicago. I am a 23 year old freelance author, model & graphic designer. I started the content creating professionally when I lost my job back in 2020 when covid started. My background story? hmm… I was doing a little bit of everything before I came into the light of an influencer. Started beauty pageants at 8 years old, Took classes at the “ETA Theatre” on the south side of Chicago where celebrities like “Keenan and Kel”, “Jennifer Hudson” and “Terrence Howard” once took classes before they became who they are today. I’ve been an extra on the set of the show “Empire” back in 2019 starring the great “Terrence Howard” isn’t that ironic? I kind of knew then I was going to be a star at anything I do in the future. I am most proud of never giving up on my craft and accomplishing everything I said I would such as: Finishing my first “Black Girl Manga” book, Being one of Summer Walker’s models for her clothing brand, Modeling for well known brands like: shein, dollskill, Rave wonderland, disturbia, goli gummies, being in my first commercial for dollskill and being one of the faces in a clothing store in vegas. I just want to show the world that giving up is not an option no matter the circumstances, the negativity or the pain. If you are destined to do anything, Do it with passion. Be optimistic!

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

My whole life i was very resilient so coming into this new journey of the influencer world was a piece of cake although I wish I had more guidance before I blew up so fast on the media. I feel like all the times I was going through things like drama, trolling and death threats I feel like I didn’t let it stop my grind or my craft, it honestly made me better.

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

Stop the hating!!!!

It’s so bad in this generation when it comes to support I feel like in order to get it today you have to be popular or good looking but what ever happen to “talent” being the idol of society? It can all be different with just a share, a like or maybe even just telling someone they appreciate their work, it definitely does not cost a thing to do it.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Jainuku

Image Credits
Art By: Malike Clark