We were lucky to catch up with Mykey Stone recently and have shared our conversation below.
Mykey, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Do you feel you or your work has ever been misunderstood or mischaracterized? If so, tell us the story and how/why it happened and if there are any interesting learnings or insights you took from the experience?
As a model with disabilities, I encounter numerous challenges. Time constraints, due to my dialysis schedule, often limit my availability for last-minute bookings. The modeling industry’s fast-paced nature requires flexibility, which can be complicated by my health needs. Clients and agents seek reassurance about models’ open schedules, but my thrice-weekly, four-hour dialysis sessions can create conflicts. As I am Located outside fashion hubs like NYC, Atlanta, or LA, I face misconceptions about my capabilities. Industry professionals sometimes prioritize bookings over models’ health and well-being, assuming I’m incapable of performing due to my disability.
Mykey, 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?
In 2019, I made a conscious decision to prioritize my happiness by exploring the creative pursuits that bring me fulfillment. Recognizing my artistic inclination, I vowed to thrive in the arts and entertainment sector. This commitment led me to leave my job and engage in various freelance projects to sustain myself while honing my skills. My creative journey began with music, then transitioned to writing, and ultimately found its niche in fashion, specifically as a big and tall model. By showcasing my work on Instagram, I caught the attention of a local runway show producer, who introduced me to industry experts. This exposure led to my runway debut in December 2019. As a plus-size male model, voice-over artist, creative director, and content creator, I’ve uncovered diverse talents. My experiences demonstrate that success is achievable despite life’s hurdles, inspiring others to pursue their passions. Having survived a near-fatal heart attack in 2021, I’m driven to motivate those struggling. Walking in New York Fashion Week fuels my ambition to dream big, and I strive to show that determination can overcome significant challenges, including end-stage renal disease, inspiring hope in those who feel lost.
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
Collaborating with a talented photographer in 2020 resulted in a notable photoshoot that garnered high-profile attention. Despite this success, the photographer declined to continue working together, initially leading me to worry about the implications for my modeling career due to my commitment to loyalty. However, further experiences in the industry taught me the importance of maintaining professional objectivity and making timely decisions, highlighting the value of wisdom in navigating the modeling world’s fast-paced and often unpredictable landscape.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
Being a creative brings me utmost joy and serenity. I am fully engaged and productive, perpetually enhancing my skills. When facing the camera, I adopt a distinct persona, untroubled by concerns. My resolve to manifest my vision takes precedence. Consequently, my reward stems from the amalgamation of industriousness and occupational happiness, inherent in forging a dream life.i
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mykey_stone?igsh=ODA1NTc5OTg5Nw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100073647901009&mibextid=LQQJ4d
- Twitter: https://x.com/mykeystone?s=21&t=ia76IAixDuF_9we8hGyb_g
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mykey-stone
- Other: Tiktok
https://www.tiktok.com/@mykeystone?_t=8pfgLaaU3bC&_r=1
Image Credits
Andrew Prince https://www.instagram.com/creativedrewp?igsh=MXF5MG9rcjZhdzE5cw==
Marion Woodhouse: https://www.instagram.com/creativedrewp?igsh=MXF5MG9rcjZhdzE5cw==
Sean Allen: https://www.instagram.com/iamshotbysean