We were lucky to catch up with Mykia Wilson recently and have shared our conversation below.
Mykia, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.
In December of 2019, I walked across the stage and grabbed my Psychology degree. Less than 24 hours after my graduation, I was on the road to North Carolina from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. I didn’t have any jobs lined up. I didn’t have any financial or emotional support from my parents. All I had were the money in my savings account, my car, and a prayer. Oh and I had bills too! Apartments are so expensive! I moved to a city I’ve never visited. I come from a very rough environment filled with poverty, violence, pain, and trauma. I wasn’t born with things handed to me, so I had to do what was necessary to elevate myself. During my last two years of college, I bypassed on a lot of things in order to stack my money. I had to sacrifice a lot in order to break free from my comfort zone. I missed the birth of my two youngest nieces. I missed the chance to see my cousin before she passed away. I missed a lot. It’s painful, but I’m doing this for my family. I knew that I could no longer strive in that environment, and I wanted to be that motivation for my family back home, especially the children. I wanted to follow my dreams and inspire others to do the same. My best friends were already living in North Carolina, and they played a huge role in elevating my artistic career. I wouldn’t be here without them. I didn’t know how things were going to turn out, and I was beyond terrified. The move to NC turned out to be the biggest life changing risk I’ve ever taken. I’ve dealt with plenty of difficult moments up here, but that’s apart of the journey. I went on to book modeling gigs, meet amazing individuals, create lifelong friendships, magazine publications, and I’ve recently started writing my third book. The risk was worth it, and I have zero regrets. Living in stagnancy was more painful then moving out of it. I’m on a quest to break generational curses. On December 21, 2019, I looked fear right in the eyes and said, “I choose me”.
Mykia, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I’m a Model, Author, and Poet. Modeling wasn’t a childhood dream of mine. Writing and basketball were my two biggest passions as a child. In 2015, I became indulged in 90s fashion which led to my love of modeling. I started taking pictures in vintage clothing, and the rest was history. In 2017, my friend turned manager, Shardae Simpson, decided to help me in establishing myself as a model. She gave me the task of studying models who paved the way for black women in the industry. Some of those models were Naomi Sims, Beverly Johnson, and Iman. She has connected me with talented creatives whom I love, and it’s been a beautiful process. My other friend turned hairstylist is Tiffany Clark, and she’s played a huge role in my development as well. Since then, I have booked modeling gigs, earned my first magazine cover, and I get to make memories with cool people.
I started writing poetry at the age of 5. Writing saved my life. It was a way for me to express myself when I had a difficult time being vocal about my issues. I have dealt with a lot of trauma and abuse. Writing is my outlet, and I use my words to not only free myself but to free others. I call it my personal connection device. I get to connect with people by sharing my story. I get to connect with individuals by being relatable and vulnerable. In 2019, I published my first poetry book on Amazon entitled, “Speak Your Truth Young Queen”. It was an amazing experience. I used to sit in class while the professor was giving a lecture with my poetry on one side and my lecture notes on the other side. It’s a passion that I love with all my heart. I sill have a hard time being vulnerable and releasing my poetry, but I am working on it. My third poetry book is currently in production and will be released soon. I don’t have a date in mind, but I treat my work like a baby. I feed it, nurture it, correct it, love it, and release it when it’s time.
I am most proud of building the courage to share my art. It’s truly and tremendously a blessing because the struggle is real. Vulnerability issues and Imposter Syndrome are always lurking in the background somewhere, but I am working to overcome it. It’s an uphill battle that I still struggle with, but I’m proud of my progress. I am most proud of being apart of the creative process and watching the journey turn into a beautiful masterpiece. I love to inspire others.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
My main goal is to inspire and motivate others through my art. It’s not about the money, fame, or clout. I find joy in having my nieces and younger siblings witness my growth as an artist and as a woman. I do this for them. I do this for the little black girls that look like me. I do this for the kids that live in the hoods I grew up in. I want people to look at me and say, “If she made it through the struggle, then I can make it”. If I can inspire at least one person, then I’ve done my part. Growing up, I didn’t hear of many models and authors coming out of Baton Rouge. I didn’t have a lot of motivation to fully tap into my creative side, so I want to motivate the young people in my community to follow their dreams.
In the words of Langston Hughes, “Hold fast to dreams, for if dreams die, life is a broken-winged bird that cannot fly”.
Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?
I’ve learned that everyone is not out to hurt you. Sometimes people will do things that hurt you. They might try to belittle or sabotage you. You will deal with a lot of adversity. I’ve dealt with pain on various levels, and it’s awful. There were times when I wanted to be alone, and I didn’t want to deal with anybody due to a lack of trust. I found it difficult to operate in that condition because I was robbing myself of connections with good people. Everyone will not hurt you. There are people on this planet that want to see you win. I’ve met some of the most amazing individuals, and I love them so much. This creative world might seem a little stressful at times, but it’s rewarding when you meet genuine souls. I would actually like to give a special shout out to an amazing photographer that I’m grateful to call my sista… Mrs. Jessica Bratton! She’s such a caring and talented individual. She is a good example of what happens when you don’t give up on connecting with others. Life is full of ups and downs, but I wouldn’t be here without the sweet souls who are apart of my support system. You must remain vigilant and careful, but remember that healing can occur in both isolation and community. I’ve had people that uplifted and supported me. I didn’t make it this far by myself. As a creative, it’s important to remain open to receiving and providing support.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/mykiaw
- Instagram: _mykiki
Image Credits
Jessica Bratton Ernesto Sue Pyro Little Peach Cowgirl Destiny Henderson Porsha Paradise Shardae Simpson Tiffany Clark Dianne Wilson Jessica Delovely