We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Mariah Janaé a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Mariah thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?

I am happy and grateful with being a creative. Sometimes I do wonder what it would be like if I pursued and just focused on working a regular job. I remember a goal of mine I had I wanted to get into journalism and major in broadcast journalism. In general I feel I love to express myself so whether that’s with words or with modeling it aligns with my purpose.

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

I been modeling since summer of 2018 and had the passion since I was a little girl. The thrill of getting to express myself through a range of different emotions , creative photo/photos that tells a story , and learning something new and stepping out of my comfort zone every time I’m creating.

Growing up I was really quiet and reserved I found that modeling boosted my confidence and to learn anyone can model I was determined to perfect my craft and discover my personal brand. Whatever you think is the beauty standard or standard model there’s several genres of modeling and there’s a place for everyone.

Knowing how to style myself , do my own makeup , and the art of posing and facial expressions was very convenient to me especially as a freelance model. Modeling aside I’m still satisfied I’m learning several skills I can use in my day to day life.

Modeling has also taught me people skills , networking skills , patience , and most of all how to deal with rejection. Still a work in progress but once I was educated on how important it is to know modeling is a business you will take less personal and the reason why I model is why I’m here today no matter how many no’s I may get.

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

My mission is to continue to show up authentic and true to myself. Modeling is a work of art. I want people to know there is a space for everyone to find creativity within themselves and share it to the world. Doing what you love and having the opportunity to be paid for that is the biggest blessing.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

Recent lesson I had to learn is to stop overthinking and being a perfectionist. I assumed at the time modeling is about the best of the best only and nothing more. I believe I would be further in my journey had I worked on that. No regrets lessons learned for sure but modeling takes practice and dedication and that’s never going to stop. Being too hard on yourself can cause you to stay stagnant and not grow. I had to unlearn perfectionism and overthinking especially because that leads to procrastination.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: iamMariahJanae

Image Credits
Stacey Thompson Alexandria McFadden