We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Serenity Hill a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Serenity thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you tell us about a time that your work has been misunderstood? Why do you think it happened and did any interesting insights emerge from the experience?
Being in such a strict industry people will put you in boxes and categories that don’t really reflect who you truly are. I remember my very first “sexy” publication. It was for a cigar company in which my photo would be printed in different stores or advertisements. I wore lingerie but kept it classy from the attire to the poses. It was all very tasteful, however some of my following did not think so. I posted my photo shoot on a day that celebrated body confidence. My caption encouraged people to love themselves flaws and all. This was the first time any people saw me in something this revealing, I had mixed reactions. There were tons of positive feedback and support and then there were those who bashed me on social media and sent my work out to different people to criticize me. At that time I was about 19 years old and have been modeling for about 2 1/2 years. The negative remarks about me smoking a cigar or looking “trashy” really affected how I thought people, saw me and the message I was putting across. I began to overthink and step away from social media to a point where I rarely even posted anymore. It left me kind of depressed and gave me anxiety about shooting, but I had to shake that feeling and keep on going. People will always talk about me whether I’m doing good or bad. I realized I have to stay true to myself in my craft. People will have their opinions, but that’s just what they are, opinions.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers
Growing up I was always into fashion because of my parents. They were also models back in the day. I was obsessed with watching fashion shows and dreamed of one day walking the runway. I began freelance modeling around 17 years old, and at 18 I auditioned for America’s Next Top Model. However, I didn’t make it very far but I didn’t give up on my dream. I later took modeling classes and was soon signed to an agency in Houston. As time went on in the modeling world I explored other things in the industry such as directing, coaching and entertainment. After six great years of being signed, I parted ways to pursue other avenues. Though I still model, I have expanded my platform which allowed other creatives to work with me on so many different levels. I worked several side jobs and had a 9-5 office job, but was never satisfied. I spent time figuring out how to tie in everything that I had to offer (modeling, acting, creative directing photo/video shoots, fashion shows, events, coaching, casting etc.) and then birthed The Serenity Project. I was able to offer my services while also creating a space for people to grow and develop their talents. What makes me most proud of this journey is the fact that so many people have reached out to work with me just by word of mouth. No advertisements. I look back on the image I wanted to create for myself and now I’m showing up as her. The Serenity Project is an outlet for creatives to work and learn how to operate in their craft. We offer hands on training that allows people to become educated with the fundamentals of the entertainment and fashion industry, talent will have the chance to meet fashion designers, network with media teams, and most importantly, make money doing what they love. We are here to manage, guide and train creatives in the right directions for success. No one is perfect and we do not strive for perfection, just growth to be a better you.
Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?
One thing I wish I would’ve known about is all of the free help. A really good friend of mine opened up my eyes to so many free business hacks. By searching online and simply not being afraid to ask questions. We have so much access to educational seminars, grants, connect groups, mentors and so much more. Being an entrepreneur can be hard but so rewarding. Seeking guidance is the key to a great business.
Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.
There are many people who think my job is “easy” or “always fun” but that isn’t always the case. The entertainment industry is demanding overall and our work is always being criticized. I often find myself working 16 hours a day sometimes 10-12 days straight. It just doesn’t stop. From traveling via air, train or car (depending on the city) and having energy to network, it can be a bit much. There is a lot of work that goes into preparing for an event, or writing a script or even casting talent/staff. People can be unreliable and things can go wrong on and off set. Besides the work that goes into it, there’s the constant feeling of missing out. Lots of creatives feel guilty for choosing work over an outing or catching up with family. This isn’t something that is intentional, it just happens. Overtime I have found a balance to prevent burnouts by taking a self care day. I am grateful to have a support system that forces me to take breaks and allow me to disconnect and recharge.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @theserenityhill @theserenityprojectgroup