Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Olivia Ramsey. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Olivia thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.

The biggest risk I’ve taken so far has been beginning my modeling journey. I’m 5’11 so it had always been something that was suggested I try out but the thought of being in front of a camera that I wasn’t holding used to make me nervous, I would immediately come up with reasons why I couldn’t do it: “I’m not photogenic”, “What if I don’t get picked for anything”, and, “It’s just not for me”. The idea of being presented without having full control over my appearance and the possibility of rejection were both things that terrified me.

I eventually came to the conclusion that my insecurities were insignificant in the grand scheme of things. It would either work out or it wouldn’t but I wouldn’t keel over and die if I just tried. I’m now just over a year into modeling, and it has been one of the most rewarding decisions I’ve ever made.

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?

Hello! My name is Olivia, I’m a 25 year-old model from the greatest city in the world, Detroit. At the start of my journey, I was lucky to have friends already working in creative fields. A few had been modeling for a while at that point so when I got over my self-doubt the opportunity to be in a show came quickly. In the year since then, I’ve had the pleasure of collaborating with a diverse range of local photographers and designers.

I believe what sets me apart is my love for Detroit’s creative community, it has been so rewarding be within it. I am most proud of the relationships I have built and my growth as a model so far. Each project has been a learning experience, helping me hone my skills and enhance my abilities. I’ve had so many special moments in such a short time, I can’t be anything but grateful for everyone that has aided along the way. My journey is just beginning, and I am excited about the future and the opportunities it holds.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

I still feel like a newcomer in this field, so my main goals right now are to become a better model and connect with my local community. I would love to work in major fashion cities like New York or Paris eventually but I feel like Detroit is the perfect place for me right now. This city is incredibly rich with talent, from photographers to designers to artists, the creative scene here is amazing.

The welcoming community here has allowed me to connect with so many beautiful people who have become not only friends but inspirations for me. I’ve been truly blessed to meet, work with, and learn from some of the kindest and most talented individuals Detroit has to offer. I feel fortunate to have had such a positive experience so far.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

One lesson I had to unlearn is the belief that talent is something innate and that good models didn’t practice. Early in my journey, I thought that successful models were just naturally gifted and didn’t put in much effort behind the scenes. I assumed that if I wasn’t immediately great at something, I didn’t have the talent for it.

However, as I started participating in more photo shoots and fashion shows, I realized how much effort goes into refining the craft. I saw firsthand how my friends practiced their poses, worked on their walks, and continuously improved their skills. I now understand that being a good model requires dedication, practice, and a willingness to learn and grow.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://linktr.ee/stliv
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/st.liv

Image Credits

Profile image – Quinn Banks
1. Motor City Moda
2. Terence Damien Harris
3. Terence Damien Harris
4. Stackz Vision
5. Stackz Vision
6. Terence Damien Harris