Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Michaela “kayla Kay” Sterling. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Michaela “Kayla Kay”, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Do you wish you had started sooner?
If I could go back in time, I often wonder what my creative career would have looked like if I’d started sooner—if I’d had the stability, love, and support that so many others take for granted. Growing up, I felt unloved and neglected, constantly shuffled between family members and later friends, never feeling like I had a true place to belong. Those experiences left scars that I still struggle to release, especially when I think about how much further I might have been if I’d had a foundation of support to build on.
It was during one of the lowest points of my life—homeless in 2016—that I found modeling. I took all of the anger, resentment, and even misplaced moments of happiness and threw them into my art. Modeling became my outlet, a way to transform pain into beauty and give voice to the emotions I had buried for so long. It was the first time I realized that I could create something meaningful, even when I felt broken inside.
These challenges also deeply shaped my relationship with mental health advocacy. Struggling through years of instability taught me the critical importance of emotional resilience and access to support. It’s why I’m so passionate about advocating for mental health awareness, particularly in communities that lack access to these resources. My experiences make me more empathetic to others navigating similar hardships, and I’ve committed to using my platform to highlight the necessity of safe spaces, affordable care, and open conversations about mental wellness.
While I often imagine how things might have been different with earlier opportunities or better support, I wouldn’t change the timing of my journey. Every hardship has shaped the person I am today and given my work a depth that only comes from real struggle. That raw authenticity is the core of who I am and the foundation of my art.
The visual collection submitted, titled “Will Model for Food,” is a powerful testament to my resilience and the struggles I’ve overcome. The theme reflects my journey both as a person and as a model, capturing the raw essence of perseverance. This project stands out as some of my most diligent planning work, pushing me to network in ways I had never explored before and collaborate with other creatives to bring the vision to life. It’s a visual narrative of growth, grit, and professionalism that I’m incredibly proud to share.
For those curious about my story and how these experiences molded me, I’m excited to announce the release of my documentary in March 2025. It’s a tell-all exposé of my life from birth to now, offering an unfiltered look at everything I’ve endured, overcome, and created. If you’ve ever wondered about the story behind the work, this documentary will give you all the answers. My past may not define me, but it has undeniably fueled everything I’ve built.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I’m Michaela “Kayla Kay” Sterling, the founder and creative force behind Curly Queen Models, a brand that bridges the world of creative direction and community advocacy. My journey into this space is deeply rooted in my passion for storytelling and connecting with people on a meaningful level. Growing up in Southern California, I was always drawn to creative expression.
Curly Queen Models began as a platform for celebrating individuality and fostering inclusivity. It’s not a traditional modeling agency but rather a dynamic space where I collaborate with brands and individuals to create compelling visual narratives. My work spans creative direction, content creation, and community-focused projects that align with social causes like mental health advocacy and sustainable living.
What sets my work apart is the heart and authenticity I bring to every project. I aim to craft stories that not only captivate visually but also resonate emotionally. Whether I’m designing a campaign that highlights underrepresented voices or leading a photoshoot in an unconventional setting, my goal is always to push boundaries, redefine what it means to tell a story through art, and demonstrate that “we can shoot it anywhere”.
One of the things I’m most proud of is the impact Curly Queen Models has had in advocating for causes I care deeply about. I integrate my love for spirituality and holistic well-being into my work, creating a unique blend of creativity and purpose. For me, it’s about more than just aesthetics—it’s about making people feel seen, heard, and valued.
For those who follow my journey, I want you to know that Curly Queen Models is about community, creativity, and change. Whether you’re a brand looking to collaborate on a project that inspires or someone seeking encouragement to chase your own dreams, my work is for you. At its core, everything I do is guided by a simple belief: Everything is temporary but love, love outlasts us all.
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
The heart of my creative journey comes from a mix of personal ambition and a genuine desire to make a difference. I want to build a life where I inspire people to do the right thing while staying true to myself. My biggest dream is to one day own a farm with acres of open land—a place where I can live freely and create, whether it’s through photoshoots, acting, painting, or any other artistic passion that moves me.
But it’s not just about me. I want that farm to do more. I see it as a way to provide fresh food—meat and produce—for homeless shelters and group homes that I plan to create. These spaces wouldn’t just offer meals but also dignity, stability, and a real chance for people to rebuild their lives. For me, success isn’t just about being rich or famous; it’s about using my platform to lift others up while continuing to express my creativity in every way possible.
What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?
I believe the best way for society to truly support artists and build a thriving creative community is by holding space for us. This means creating environments—both physical and emotional—where we can express ourselves openly without fear of judgment or being taken advantage of. It’s about recognizing that creativity isn’t just a luxury; it’s a vital part of culture and the economy.
Holding space also means offering real support—things like funding for projects, affordable housing or studio spaces, access to mental health resources, and platforms to share our work. When society invests in artists, it’s investing in new ideas, diverse perspectives, and a deeper connection to what makes us human. By amplifying creative voices, especially those from underrepresented communities, we build a richer, more inclusive world where art can flourish.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://CurlyQueenModels.com
- Instagram: https://Instagram.com/Curlyqueenmodels
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/curlyqueenmodels
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/curlyqueenmodels
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/curlyqueenk
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsLNJJlxTRXqn7HxVHtErWw
Image Credits
Theme: Will Model for Food
Photographer: Marquis Campbell
Makeup artist: Tiana Perry
Designer: Becca Saintfleur