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

Lili, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

The first time I knew I wanted to pursue a creative path professionally was probably end of high school. I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to do. I was interested in art and drawing, thought I wanted to be a film maker at one point. I also dreamed of modeling after watching the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show but got discouraged because I didn’t meet their height requirements at the time. Anyways I went to college as a film production major initially, then switched to Graphic Design. After I graduated I found a UX/UI Design job at a small design agency but left two weeks later. After that, I decided to a chance and pursue modeling professionally.

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 Lili Wang, I am 24 years old based out of the Inland Empire. I grew up in Fontana, California and went to San Diego State University for undergrad before deciding to pursue modeling. I got into the industry by building my portfolio and gaining experience with Instagram photographers in the beginning, and it allowed me network a little bit until I booked my first job. I researched model agencies, went to in person casting calls and online submissions, then eventually signed with my first agency, allowing me to understand a bit about how the industry works. I didn’t want my career to be dependent on another person so I started submitting myself on Casting Networks, Backstage, followed the right people on Instagram, and lots of networking. Getting to where I am now, it took a lot of time, courage, investing and believing in myself.

I provide modeling services to clients. This can be as simple as making sure the clothes fit and look right when it’s on me, making sure the photographer/videographer’s vision come to life, bringing confidence and a positive attitude on set, and just being beautiful and basically vibing at times. I’m available for print shoots, campaigns, music videos, TV Shows, anything you can imagine. I think what sets me apart from others is that I usually am the only or one of the few Asian women that I see while modeling in SoCal and is tall with a tattoo.

I am most proud of having the opportunity to work with some major brands and artists such as Bia, Lakeyah, DD Osama, Shiekh, ESPN, BET TV Network. Modeling has allowed me to try different things, and build skills I never thought I had. Something that I do want to do is to lean more towards beauty, fashion, activewear or athleisure work.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

A particular goal of mine is to model for Nike or brands like Sephora or Skims. It would be awesome to be blasted on a giant billboard in a random city or at a store. Another thing that drives my journey is realizing how there are endless possibilities, and people to work with. It’s my mission to create something dope with brands and individuals.

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

Rich Dad Poor Dad, Outwitting the Devil, Youtube, and two other entrepreneurs I met the past year really impacted my thinking. I used to do a lot of shoots for free even if it wasn’t beneficial towards my modeling goals. It was good practice until I realized how valuable my time was. I started thinking about the what I would gain back from everything I do, if it was worth it or not. The books taught me about investing in future self and mindset is important because it’s what manifests into reality.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1iliwang/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@hertraveldiary
• Other: Amazon Shop: https://www.amazon.com/shop/1iliwang?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_aipsf1iliwang_QH8ZA0K8YRM1H6EY0ZKS

Image Credits

@wavyxangel (img 2,4,7)
@paige_craig_photo (5)
@lafeaduckling (3)
@mansoooooooor (6)