We were lucky to catch up with Molie Onyongo recently and have shared our conversation below.

Molie, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

One of the most meaningful projects I ever worked on was what felt like my very first ”commercial”. It wasn’t necessarily my first commercial but the quality and the dedication that was put into doing the actual commercial was like a once in a lifetime experience. And once I saw the actual video I was so astounded I couldn’t believe I was even in it. I guess I could say I have never done a commercial of that form and on that level. I mean anything you do in the modeling industry has some kind of meaningful effect on you. I do think certain projects can have a way different effect on a person.

Molie, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Well, I think I bring a different kind of aura when it comes to my presence, my work, etc. I am a very fun, outgoing, and outspoken individual. I always speak my mind because sometimes you just don’t know, what you are thinking may be beneficial to whatever it is that is taking place at the time whether it be a shoot idea, a concept, lighting, clothing ideas, etc. I have a very outgoing personality I love meeting new people and working with people. I have a sense of humor so I think my presence honestly can light a room up and make everyone feel a sense of ease which usually allows people to be more open and even more friendlier as well. I have a lot of experience in the modeling industry so when I go to shoots and I know what I’m doing I just steal the show. I’ve heard many photographers say ”You are a great model. You got in here and just knew what to already do.” I love my craft and as the years go on of course you excel and can just master a gig with ease. I am a runway model, as well as a high fashion model. I have also done commercial work and much more good stuff to come.

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

I would say that I think this world could do better in a sense as far as the narrative that’s been created as far as what a model looks like and be a bit more supportive in that area. The modeling industry can be a very controversial industry. I’ve learned throughout the years of my modeling experience that models come in many different shapes and sizes. I believe a lot of us have this narrative that a model should be tall and skinny. Well throughout my years of fashion shows needless to say I’ve worked with models that are short, unique looking, all in all just different. Some people are born with very distinctive features. What may look funny or weird to you in the modeling industry can be used as a form of art beauty can be created from that very thing that may look different to you that’s what makes them unique. I also feel this narrative that models need to be naked or dressed a certain type of way needs to be thrown out. A model doesn’t have to be beautiful and considered “a real model” if they are 6’2 and tall and skinny. A model can be 5’6 and very beautiful and still be considered a model.

Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?

Yes, I wish I knew more about management earlier on. I’ve had management in the past and I wish I knew then what I know now. For many years I’ve been freelancing now just because I feel like management didn’t turn out for me the way I wish it had I honestly lost hope in my modeling career after I lost my management. It’s very important to have a strong team behind you that supports you and truly wants what is best for you. Having the proper form of management can honestly do you a great deal. They find you all the gigs, can give you advance what to do’s and not to do’s, guidance, etc. I honestly think sometimes management is the connect as far as the good gigs. But, as I stated it has to be the right team behind you supporting you all the way because without the right team I feel like you miss out on opportunities. So yes having a good mother agent, or an agency overall is very important and beneficial.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @Moliesha95
• Facebook: Molie Onyongo

Image Credits
Jesus Arte, Michael Haug, V. Keller, Dhan Photography.