We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Celena Marie a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Celena, thanks for joining us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

The following project was conceptualized and directed by me. This collaboration provided the opportunity to work with other talented creatives. In my story, I posted a model casting to choose the models that would work alongside me. The photographer, Summer, and I decided on models based on different hairstyles/textures and shades of melanin. The models Inyiah (@inyiiah) and Cynthia (@cynthiaadee) wore natural curly hair, and Hassnatu (@natusaura) and I wore different kinds of braided styles. The models were also intentionally styled by me in shades of brown to highlight their hair and skin tones. The work came to fruition with the support of a black photographer (@shotbysummer), a videographer shooting behind the scenes (@filmedbylm), and two makeup artists (@kendrablissbeauty & @vanityglambeauty), who successfully captured the vision.

My goal for this photoshoot was to promote black talent for Juneteenth. This project was meaningful because I could execute such a fantastic idea that started from scrolling on Pinterest. I aim to unite the black community and show the world our black creativity. Because it’s not shown enough. I want to show the world my black creativity. Especially on such a day like Juneteenth.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Yes, I am a multi talented entrepreneur from the DC Metro area (Washington, D.C., Maryland, Virginia). I am also a full-time student at Hampton University working on my Bachelor of Science in Marketing. I work part-time as a freelance model, creative director, social media manager, and content creator. I have created and continue to manage my website and social media pages, carefully curating my online persona. My portfolio and work demonstrates my drive, passion, talent, collaborative nature, creativity, innovative thinking, and professionalism. When not studying or collaborating with other creatives, I create fashion and beauty content for my brand, work at the gym, binge-watch drama series, or try new restaurants!

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

I am on a journey to discover who I am. So far, I know I’m a student, daughter, entrepreneur, Capricorn, and a young Black woman who strives for positive energy around her. As I continue my journey to grow into a successful black woman, being a part of a college community that models greatness for all its students helps me on this journey. As an only child born in America to Jamaican-born parents, I often experience cultural conflict. My family has thoroughly steeped me in Jamaican culture. I also grew up around people from other minority groups and white people, but not many African Americans or Caribbean Americans. I want to be in spaces where I am not the only black girl. I want to address topics create, and build relationships with people of my race. Studying Marketing offers an opportunity to increase my knowledge, expand my landscape, and network with like-minded individuals. However, following an HBCU allows me to be a part of an institution and culture where I know I can be inspired and be better positioned to contribute to my community. Ultimately, I want to create safe spaces and opportunities for developing artists and other young professionals from racially diverse backgrounds. Other creatives with similar experiences or goals deserve to know they are enough, are not alone, and can pursue their dreams.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

Surprisingly, I am shy. But I enjoy working alongside other creatives, connecting with them, learning from them, and executing an idea with their help. The most rewarding aspect is getting back the shots from the photoshoot, seeing how my project came together, and, of course, getting to show the world. When I drop those pictures, I feel amazing when friends and supporters show love on that new post. And lastly, people see the beauty in my work and want to hire or work with me.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.celenamarie.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/misscelenamarie

Image Credits
Photographers: @itsjustrell_ , @look.2.c , @e.o.c.r